via Masrawy
The journey from script to screen is riddled with obstacles and challenges, from financial issues to creative conflicts. That said, not every project sees the light of day as intended. As we eagerly await a resolution for these hidden gems, we wonder if we will ever get to see these cinematic lost treasures. In the meantime, here are the stories behind some of the films trapped in production limbo:
3 Shohoor
Ahmed El Sakka, Mona Zaki, and Khaled El Sawy were set to grace the screen in 3 Shohoor, a promising project with potential blockbuster status. Despite the cast's enthusiasm and dedication and only the scenes scheduled in America left unshot, the producing company could not secure the necessary money due to funding issues.
El Tarikh El Serry Le Kawthar
A movie that attempted to embark on a journey exploring Egypt's post-revolution, only to find itself trapped in a dark tunnel of production disputes. With a star-studded cast led by Laila Olwy and Zeina, the film promised a thought-provoking narrative. However, internal conflicts between production companies led to the halting of filming, leaving only a few scenes unfinished.
El Raheb
Hany Salama and Hala Khalil's collaboration faced numerous obstacles, leading to the film's premature cancellation. Creative differences and disagreements between the director and lead actor postponed the filming process for years. However, after clearing the air and continuing the movie to the extent of releasing a trailer, author Medhat El Adl received an abundance of disapproval from multiple priests and monks upon passing it.
El Tahwida
Amr Youssef's debut into the horror genre was very promising until the release date faded into the unknown. With scheduling conflicts hindering its production, El Tahwida was added to the long list of movies hidden in the vault.
Fy 3ez el Dohr
Mena Massoud's return to Egyptian cinema sparked anticipation, especially with his alleged first lead in Fy 3ez El Dohr. Not so long after filming started, rumours of recasting took place where the role of Mena's love interest, primarily played by Hana El Zahed, went to Jamila Awad, then to Mirna Nour Eldin. Also, Shereen Reda's character went to Iman El Assy. The new cast supposedly finished filming long ago, but the future remains uncertain, leaving fans to wonder if they will ever witness it in theatres.
El Shayeb
Asser Yassin's role in the Welad Rizk franchise took an unexpected turn, leaving 'El Shayeb' with multiple production delays. However, as of this year, we will be granted the franchise's third chapter, where Yassin's El Shayeb becomes the main character. Yet, the question remains: will we ever get to see this spin-off?
Taraneem Iblis
As Mustafa Shabaan and Ahmed El Sakka's Taraneem Iblis lingers in development limbo, allegations of feuds between the two stars rose. Mustafa spoke out earlier last year on the matter, confirming it, but could not answer the questions surrounding the unpredictable future of the film.
El Gawahergy
This highly awaited film was set to mark the reunion of Mohamed Henedy and Mona Zaki, marking their first collaboration since Se3eedy Fil Gam3a El Amerikeya in 1998. The project was announced three years ago and concluded filming in August 2021. However, the reasons for its postponement remain unexplained.
El Serb
El Sarb has found itself in a prolonged period of production limbo since its initial release date in early 2021. Since then, numerous rescheduled release dates have been announced almost every year, especially on the 6th of October. The ensemble cast of renowned talents includes Ahmed El Sakka, Mona Zaki, Amr Abdel Galil, Mostafa Fahmi, Hend Sabry, Sherif Mounir, and Diab, with cameos from household names like Karim Fahmy, Ahmed Hatem, Asser Yassin, and more.
