via Blueprint Productions
The silver screen welcomes a blast from the past with the release of Ma2soum, a film that seeks to rekindle the magic of a once-beloved musical band from the '90s. In a tale of revival and reconciliation, Amy, Rania, and Hend embark on a final musical adventure to hold a concert in Aswan, reigniting their dormant band.
As it challenges ageist norms, introduces fresh talent, and navigates the complexities of a reunion, this fictional journey taps into the viewer's love for nostalgia, the essence of friendship, disagreements, and the enduring power of music.
New Era in Egyptian Cinema
In a departure from the norm in Egyptian entertainment, Ma2soum boasts a star-studded cast featuring household names like Laila Olwy, Shereen Reda, and Sama Ibrahim. Following in the footsteps of recent senior-led successes like Wa2fet Regala, the film pioneers a shift in Egyptian cinema, allowing senior stars to shine in leading roles.
The Haitham Dabour Effect
The film is the latest addition to writer Haitham Dabour's accomplishments. He is known for his previous senior-led masterpieces like Wa2fet Regala and Photocopy. Collaborating with director Kawthar Younis, making her cinematic debut after earning accolades for her documentaries and shorts, they crafted a narrative centred around female senior leads.
Youthful Talents' Driving Force
While the seniors lead the charge, youthful talents Sarah Abdelrahman and Amr Wahba provide the film's driving force. The dynamic duo weave their storyline into connecting the narratives of the three female leads. The film also showcases the next generation of talent, with standout performances from Hagar El Serrag and rising child star Lavenia Nader. Director Hany Khalifa, known for his masterpieces like Sahar El Layaly, effortlessly steps into the world of acting, delivering a compelling love interest for Laila Olwy's character.
Cameos and Scene-Stealers
Ma2soum doesn't just rely on its leading cast; it features memorable cameos that add layers of humour and depth. Mohamed Shahin injects his comedic genius, while Mohamed Mamdouh and Tharaa Goubail leave their mark. However, the legendary Sayed Ragab steals the scene, showcasing his ability to convey a wealth of emotions with a mere glance. Unlike many other films, each cameo's appearance contributed to the viewer's cinematic experience.
A Few Sour Notes in the Harmony
Despite its overall charm, Ma2soum encounters a couple of bumps along the road. The film is not a musical, despite its focus on a musical band. The leads, not being real-life singers, result in only two adjusted and autotuned songs. The challenge arises during scenes where the characters pretend to perform, and the mismatch between their instrument play and the soundtrack's beat becomes evident. This minor flaw affects the scene's credibility, disrupting the film's otherwise seamless flow.
