Egyptian Film on Women’s Role Draws Ire and Praise

Addie Davis
August 28, 2009

Friday 2:52 pm

An Egyptian film exploring the subjugation of women across the Middle East has caused many personal responses, good and bad. “Scheherazade: Tell Me a Story,” is a drama about a successful talk-show host, Hebba, whose husband discourages topics about politics in order to advance his own career. He is told that if his wife tones down the provocative content of her popular TV show, that he will receive the top job as editor of the Cairo newspaper. Instead Hebba invites women to tell their tragic stories, exposing the fundamental flaws of Egyptian society, where “women are treated as trophies and used and abused as men see fit.” Once released the movie caused a great response from Egyptian critics. The lead actress, Mona Zaki, was shocked to receive such harsh, judgmental, and personal criticism for her role in the film. However, there were many positive reviews saying: “Surprisingly, if there are any objects of desire in this film, they are male rather than female which throws an unexpected light on sexual relations in Egypt.”

I believe that this film has opened the eyes of the Egyptian culture to allow women back into the spotlight. Women have been suppressed in the Middle East for decades and finally a film to encourage femininity and gender equality. I also feel that the negative reviews may show that gender issues are still somewhat of concern and that people may be easily offended by certain acts of bias or sexism.

http://www.reuters.com/article/filmNews/idUSTRE5832W920090904