The long-awaited sequel to El Harifa is here, and it dives deeper into the lives of its characters, capturing the charm of its predecessor. Written by Eyad Saleh and directed by Kareem Saad, the film’s exploration of football, friendship, and personal growth is sure to engage and connect with the audience.
Here’s a closer look at how El Harifa 2 excels in its storytelling, character arcs, and overall execution, promising an intriguing and engaging viewing experience.
Plot and Themes
The sequel picks up with Maged and his team as they navigate new challenges on the football field while their personal lives take unexpected turns. One of the film’s strengths lies in its exploration of football as a unifying force. The inclusion of the women’s soccer team members is a refreshing addition, adding authenticity to the match sequences.
The Writing
Eyad Saleh, who also penned the first instalment, demonstrates his ability to capture the voice of Egypt’s youth. His upcoming project with Taha Desouky, Asmaa Galal, and Aly Kassem, Fakret El Saher, will further cement his reputation as a writer who understands young audiences.
The Dreamer Abroad
Maged’s journey to Europe to pursue his dream of playing football professionally was one of the most promising storylines in the sequel. His struggles to adapt to a new culture, the challenges of balancing expectations, and the joy of achieving his goal were captivating.
Women’s Soccer Empowerment
Nour Ehab, a key figure in the film’s romantic subplot, showcased undeniable chemistry with Nour El Nabawy, a dynamic that fans have loved since their time on 6 Shuhoor. However, her potential to bring a powerful narrative about women in sports to the forefront was overlooked. As a member of a women’s soccer team, her character had a chance to challenge societal norms and highlight the challenges faced by female athletes in Egypt.
The Show-Stealer
Ahmed Ghozzi reprised his role as Sheshtawy, and once again, he was the comedic and emotional core of the film. This time, his storyline delved into his personal life, with multiple love interests adding complexity to his character. Donna Emam’s portrayal of one of Sheshtawy’s love interests brought a refreshing dynamic to the story, especially as her character introduced new conflicts.
Redemption Arc
After his character’s imprisonment in the first film, Selim El Turk returned with a storyline that added depth and closure. While his arc was better developed than in the previous instalment, it still felt like a missed opportunity to explore the psychological toll of his earlier experiences.
The Heart of the Film
Kozbara continues to be the glue holding the film together, with his comedic timing and improvisational skills stealing every scene. His storyline is well-developed, particularly his interactions with the new dean, played by Asser Yassin. The latter’s portrayal of a stern yet quirky authority figure brought new energy to the film, and his dynamic with Kozbara was hilarious. Especially since Kozbara’s arc was one of the few that felt complete, making him a standout character once again.
Additions to the Ensemble
The sequel introduces several new characters, including Donna Emam, Sheshtawy’s love interest. Known for her role in Rivo’s second season, she brings fresh energy to the cast and added intrigue to the story.
While her character was well-received, others, like Mossad Mounir, felt like wasted opportunities. Mounir’s character had the potential to be a compelling villain, but his backstory and motivations were not adequately explored, leaving his role feeling one-dimensional.
Pop Culture Integration
The film cleverly integrates modern pop culture, with rap tracks by Marwan Moussa seamlessly complementing the Gen Z-focused narrative. Cameos, including Marwan, Asmaa Galal, and Ahmed Fahmy, add excitement. Fahmy’s scene stood out for its emotional resonance, made even more memorable by producer Tarek El Ganainy’s surprise appearance.
Innovative additions, like the inclusion of social media soccer analysts Setouhy, Marwan Serry, and others, were on-brand for the film’s youthful vibe. However, spoilers shared online, such as the Shark Tank sequence, detracted from the element of surprise.
Final Thoughts
El Harifa 2 is an attempt to build on the success of its predecessor. It successfully expands its universe with new characters, heartfelt drama, and touches of humour. However, uneven storytelling and underdeveloped arcs hold it back from reaching its full potential.
Lastly, the film remains a compelling watch for fans of the original, offering moments of brilliance amid its inconsistencies. It’s a sequel that keeps the legacy alive and leaves room for further growth in potential future instalments.
