For the first time in the history of Arabic cinema, the Egyptian film industry is using Dubai as a location to shoot a film.
Prominent Egyptian actor Adel Imam will be shooting a part of his new movie, Sifara Fil Emara — An Embassy in the Building, in Dubai. The movie is set to cause controversy.
“We will have three to four days of shooting in Dubai. Dubai has been chosen as the setting for the film because of its modern architecture and its choice of beautiful locations. It also has a suitable climate. Sifara Fil Emara is based on a popular book that has achieved very high sales,” Imam said at Dubai Media City (DMC) yesterday.
Abdul Hamid Juma, DMC’s chief executive, said: “Adel Imam’s choice of Dubai as a location for his new film opens up new possibilities of cooperation.”
He said the movie tackled the well-known Arab-Israeli relations but in a comical way.
“The censorship committee didn’t cut any scene from the film, even though, it created much controversy with the authorities. Some may believe the movie’s topic could create some controversy and I will be ready to deal with this. However, I believe all political factions will welcome the movie,” he said.
Imam plays the role of a engineer in the oil industry who is not interested in politics. He leaves the Arab country where he was working and returns to Egypt, where he gets involved in a number of comical events. Upon returning he discovers the building where he stays houses the Israeli Embassy.
“The movie tackles the existing Arab-Israeli relations in a clear manner without offending anyone or creating any tension. It is a diverse movie and not a traditional one,” Imam said.
Dubai Studio City (DSC) will provide assistance and location management services in coordination with the Dubai-based film production company Filmworks.
“The region has been facing changes since the collapse of the former Soviet Union. It is facing many changes since the US is dominating the world. These changes could enrich Arabic filmmakers with loads of film ideas,” the Arab actor said.
He criticised the way in which some religious people in Arab countries had called for some artists to be lashed and executed.
Imam said he was not interested in becoming a politician. “I am sure I would fail as a politician because I don’t know how to be one. I love my job because it’s a democratic career and nobody can fire me,” he said.
Gulf News
