Write a short summary of what happens in the film.
The film translates what life would be like if it were to imitate art; if only life could be as beautiful. The film is an attempt to bring some of the world’s master pieces to life; a life with homes, kitchens, gardens, landscapes, communities; a life one could find in Palm Hills’ newest project, Badya.
Cultural/Context information for the jury
The truth is Downtown Cairo was once a bustling cultural hub. A downtown that invited writers and intellects into its cafes and bars for long nights of debate and endless conversations. It was a downtown that invited musicians, artists, performers from all over Egypt to come flaunt their talents, shine in the public eye and find fame. Cinemas, theaters, shows, spectacles, and fashion all met in Downtown Cairo. Over the years, decades in fact, our downtown got busier, dirtier, poorer and duller, losing its glamor, its youth. Instead of actresses our cafes now hosted retired, old men. Since the 60s maybe, Egypt’s creative hub became creative-less and rather void of any real inspiration. Since then, Egyptians have longed for a replacement, nostalgically reminiscing of the lively cafes, bars and theaters that were once packed with LIFE!
Tell the jury about the production design/art direction.
Although the film is intended to be a celebration of artistic masterpieces and should hopefully take your breath away, we believe the director’s mastery shows in the details. The transitions from piece to piece and the interpretation of the still artistic pieces into slices of life that can actually easily mimic life in Badya, show how the director skillfully managed to create a story out of art. Nothing in the film seems odd or out of place, although there is a tiger hidden in the bushes and a woman hiding in a closet, and yet, the story is unquestionable and fantastically real!