Via Ahdatnet & Cima Now
It is true that acting in a film is not the same as directing. These are roles that are meant to complement each other but require specific skills and levels of responsibility. However, years of experience and day-to-day routine on various sets have left their mark on many actors who later chose to try their hand behind the camera after being inspired by what they learnt from some of the best filmmakers. This also happens the other way around, with skilled directors deciding to utilise their talents in front of the camera as well.
If you’re curious about some people who can do both, check this list to learn about famed Egyptian actor-directors.
1- Ahmed Mekky
Our chameleon actor, who specialises in portraying completely different characters, started his career as a director. He began by directing the classic El-Hasa El-Sab’a before moving on to direct Lahazat Harega. Every project he takes on is way ahead of its time and deeply appreciated! The multi-talented Ahmed Mekky is also a successful rapper who writes his own music. How inspiring is that?
Via YouTube
2- Zaki Fateen Abdel-Wahab
Coming from a household full of talent is the late Zaki Fatin Abdel-Wahab, the son of the iconic singer and actress Leila Mourad and film director Fateen Abdel-Wahab. Though he was more well-known in the acting world, it would be a mistake to gloss over his directorial career! He brought us the ‘90s indie film Romantica, which turned out to be based on his life story. In addition, he contributed to the direction of movies like Ahl El-Qema and El-Youm El-Sadis, alongside renowned director Youssef Chahine.
Via English Ahram
3- Inas El-Degheidy
Shocking, isn’t it? The bold and assertive film director Inas El-Degheidy has not spent her entire career behind the camera. She starred in the 1977 classic movie Afwah Wa Araneb, alongside Mahmoud Yassin and Faten Hamama. In fact, El-Degheidy actually wanted to continue her career as an actress but ended up conveying her messages behind the camera. She has successful movies like Istakoza, Muzakerat Murhaka, and Al-Bahithat ‘An El-Horreya under her directing belt!
Via Tfaseal
4- Moataz El-Tony
Although not many may be familiar with his name, we all definitely know who this man is…especially if you remember Shokry El-Sayed in the hilarious scene from Zaki Shan! He had many other comedic roles, though what might be more surprising is that he directed many of our all-time favourite movies, such as Samir Wa Shahir Wa Bahir (in which he had a cameo) and Gaheem Fi El-Hend. He also was a part of the crew behind Africano and Mafia.
Via Facebook
5- Aida El-Kashef
Aida El Kashef is the daughter of renowned late director Radwan El Kashef, and she is an award-winning director herself. You may remember her as Farah from season one of Leih La’a, but not many of us know that she was a supporting actress in the Indian movie Ship of Thesus, even winning an award for this role! However, she thrived more as a director, having worked as the first assistant director on Ahmed Abdallah's Heliopolis and directing Hadota Min Sag.
