Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – Acclaimed Egyptian actress Mona Zaki captivated audiences at the Red Sea Film Festival on Saturday afternoon. The festival, currently in its fourth session, hosted a special dialogue session honoring Zaki, drawing a large crowd of fellow artists and keen fans.
During the intimate conversation,Zaki reminisced about her experience working on the iconic film “Halim” alongside the late,legendary actor Ahmed zaki.She shared a touching anecdote about her initial apprehension,recalling,“I asked him why he chose me for the role,and he said,‘You once played my daughter’s role and my wife’s role again. We want to work on our real relationship. I admire Tahya Najm.’”
ZakiS voice trembled with emotion as she spoke about the film, describing it as “a harsh experience.” She poignantly reflected on Ahmed Zaki’s battle with illness, stating, “The disease is a monster, and he wanted to die in front of the camera.”
Just days earlier,on Thursday evening,Zaki was honored at the festival’s opening ceremony. The star-studded event saw a dazzling array of international celebrities, including her husband Ahmed Helmy, Emily Blunt, will Smith, Kareena Kapoor, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Yousra, and Elham Shaheen, all gathered to celebrate her remarkable career.
Mona Zaki: Reflecting on Her Career and the Legacy of Ahmed Zaki at the Red Sea Film Festival
Egyptian actress Mona Zaki was the center of attention at the Red Sea Film Festival in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. A special dialogue session dedicated to her career drew a large crowd, eager to here her insights and reminisce about her iconic roles. Zaki, who was also honored at the festival’s opening ceremony alongside international stars like Emily Blunt, Will Smith, and kareena Kapoor, spoke candidly about her experiences working with the late Ahmed Zaki on the film ”halim.”
She shared touching anecdotes about their on-set relationship and his unwavering artistic dedication, even in the face of illness. This exclusive interview delves deeper into Zaki’s reflections,exploring the impact of “Halim”,her approach to acting,and the enduring legacy of Ahmed Zaki.
A Powerful Duo: Remembering “Halim”
Joining us to discuss Mona Zaki’s contributions to cinema and her poignant reflections on “Halim” is Dr. Amani hassan, a film critic and professor of Cinema Studies at Cairo University.
Dr. Hassan, Mona Zaki spoke about her initial hesitation in working on “Halim” with ahmed Zaki. Can you elaborate on the significance of this project and the dynamic between these two icons?
“Halim” wasn’t just a film; it was a cinematic event. It brought together two of Egypt’s most celebrated actors, Ahmed Zaki and Mona Zaki, at a pivotal moment in both their careers. Ahmed Zaki, a powerhouse of talent, had cemented his status as an acting legend, while Mona Zaki was rapidly rising to prominence. The film showcased the depth of their combined talent, creating a powerful and unforgettable cinematic experience.”
Mona Zaki described the experience of working with Ahmed Zaki as “harsh”, even mentioning his battle with illness. How did he approach his craft, and what made him such a compelling performer?
“ahmed Zaki was a true method actor. He immersed himself entirely in his roles, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. His commitment to authenticity was unparalleled, and he inspired a remarkable level of dedication from everyone on set. Even in the face of personal struggles, he remained dedicated to delivering a powerful performance.”
The Enduring Legacy
mona Zaki emphasized the brutal nature of bbc Ahmed Zaki’s illness and his desire to film through it. What can Zaki’s film legacy teach us about his strength and commitment to his art?
“Mona zaki’s words underscore the profound dedication Ahmed zaki had to his craft. He saw acting as more than just a profession; it was a calling. His willingness to confront his illness head-on and continue working is a testament to his unwavering passion and the transformative power of art. He serves as a constant inspiration to aspiring actors and a reminder of the enduring legacy that can be forged through unwavering commitment.”
Looking Forward: Mona Zaki’s Continued Impact
Mona Zaki’s career continues to flourish. What are your thoughts on her impact on the Egyptian film industry and the future of cinema in the region?
Mona Zaki is a true trailblazer. She has consistently pushed boundaries, taking on diverse roles and challenging societal norms. Her influence extends far beyond Egypt; she is a global ambassador for Arab cinema. Her work inspires a new generation of filmmakers and actors, ensuring that the legacy of Egyptian cinema continues to shine brightly on the global stage.
This insightful conversation with Dr. Amani Hassan illuminates the profound impact Mona Zaki and Ahmed Zaki have had on Egyptian cinema.Their collaboration on ”Halim” stands as a testament to their individual talent and their shared dedication to their craft. As Mona Zaki continues to leave an indelible mark on the industry, her legacy, intertwined with that of Ahmed Zaki, is sure to inspire generations of filmmakers and actors to come.
What are your thoughts on Mona zaki’s reflections? Share your insights in the comments below and explore more of our coverage on the red Sea Film Festival.
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