Movie spotlight
The Night of Counting the Years
Set in 1881, a year before the start of British colonial rule, it is based on the true story of the Abd el-Rasuls, an Upper-Egyptian clan that had been robbing a cache of mummies they have discovered at tomb DB320 near the village of Kurna, and selling the artifacts on the black market. After a conflict within the clan, one of its members made a crucial decision when the Antiquities Service arrived.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set in ancient Egypt, this film chronicles the desperate attempts of a village to preserve its historical records and royal mummies from tomb robbers. As the villagers face threats and betrayal, they must unite to protect their heritage. The story unfolds against a backdrop of political intrigue and the enduring struggle between preserving the past and succumbing to greed.
Critical Reception
The Night of Counting the Years is a highly regarded historical drama, praised for its powerful storytelling and its exploration of themes related to heritage and resistance. It is considered a significant work in Arab cinema, often lauded for its artistic merit and its historical context.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its compelling narrative and thematic depth.
Recognized as a significant contribution to Arab cinema.
Appreciated for its historical setting and exploration of cultural preservation.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews is not readily available for this film.
Awards & Accolades
Won awards at the Carthage Film Festival and the Locarno Film Festival.
Fun Fact
The film was based on a novel by Egyptian author Tawfiq al-Hakim and is celebrated for its rich historical detail and philosophical undertones.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources