Rotterdam Film Festival Unveils Marwan Hamed Retrospective, Biopic of Arab Music Icon Umm Kulthum
The International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) has announced a special retrospective dedicated to the work of Egyptian filmmaker Marwan Hamed, marking the first time his films will be showcased outside Egypt. This retrospective will take place during the festival's 2026 edition, celebrating Hamed's remarkable career and impact on Egyptian cinema.
One of the highlights of the festival will be the European premiere of 'El Sett', a biographical film about the legendary Egyptian singer and actress Umm Kulthum. The film stars Mona Zaki and Mohamed Farag, bringing to life the story of one of the most influential figures in Arab music. Umm Kulthum, often referred to as the 'fourth pyramid' of Egypt, has left an indelible mark on the Arab world's cultural landscape.
IFFR organizers praised Hamed's ability to captivate audiences with his grand spectacles and thought-provoking narratives. His films have consistently broken box office records in Egypt, with his recent historical epic 'Kira & El Gin' becoming the biggest financial success in Egyptian cinema history. This achievement not only brought audiences back to theaters post-pandemic but also solidified Hamed's status as a master storyteller.
The retrospective will showcase a diverse range of Hamed's films, including mystery thrillers like 'The Blue Elephant' and 'The Blue Elephant 2', the underworld drama 'Ibrahim Labyad', the corruption-themed 'Diamond Dust', and 'El-Asliyyin (The Originals)', based on a screenplay by Ahmed Mourad. These films offer a comprehensive view of Hamed's versatility and storytelling prowess.
Marwan Hamed's work has been described as a fascinating blend of spectacle and subversive intelligence. His films not only entertain but also encourage critical thinking about society and Egypt's history. The retrospective is a testament to his enduring legacy and influence on the global film industry.
Hamed himself expressed his gratitude for the honor, stating, 'I am deeply honored by the Rotterdam Film Festival's decision to host the European premiere of 'El Sett' and showcase my work. It is a privilege to have my films appreciated by a global audience.'
