With Umm Kulthum’s 100^th anniversary of her first appearance this month, Mona Zaki, the reigning queen of the Egyptian screen, joins forces with the visionary Marwan Hamed in an eagerly anticipated collaboration to portray Kulthum’s journey. They embark on their first cinematic venture together, promising to add yet another masterpiece to Marwan’s list of iconic works like Ibrahim El Abyad and El Feel El Azra2.

via Darmo

Umm Kulthum, Kawkab El Sharq, was more than a singer; she was a legend. Known for her powerful voice, unique singing abilities, and creative recitation, her impact lives through time and has inspired numerous artistic interpretations.

That said, here is a breakdown of the shows and movies that narrated her life over the years.

Firdous Abdel Hamid

Firdous Abdel Hamid took on the formidable task of embodying Umm Kulthum in the movie Kawkab El-Sharq. Diving into a specific period of Umm Kulthum’s life around 1944, the film explores her emotional journey, relationships, political affiliations, and her unwavering support for Gamal Abdel Nasser.

Sabreen

Fast forward to 1999, and Sabreen takes the stage, starring in the series that became synonymous with Umm Kulthum’s legacy. The series chronicles Umm Kulthum’s ascent to fame, her trials, and her generation’s political landscape.

Sahar El Sayegh

A unique perspective unfolded in the abovementioned series as back-then-child star Sahar El Sayegh stepped into Sabreen’s shoes, portraying the early days of Umm Kulthum’s life. She offered a glimpse into the upbringing of Kulthum and its impact on her extraordinary journey.

Marwa Nagy

In a departure from visual storytelling, singer Marwa Nagy showcased Umm Kulthum’s essence in the radio series Hosn El Hayah. This show was made to acknowledge influential Egyptian women with an ensemble of talented female artists breathing life into iconic characters.

Nahla Khalil

The stage witnessed a grand musical show titled Seeret El Hob, a theatrical operetta on the Balloon Theater stage, weaving a captivating narrative through the blend of music and drama.

Yasmine Raies

Lastly, stepping onto the international stage, Yasmine Raies played Umm Kulthum in the movie El Bahs 3an Umm Kulthum. Filmed in Morocco and Austria, the movie showcases Umm Kulthum’s life as a woman who shattered barriers and defied expectations to global audiences.