2020/2021 Winners & Shortlists

Write a short summary of what happens in the film

Two Egyptian families meet for the engagement of a young couple, but a not-so-subtle battle ensues between the heads of the families, each trying to outdo the other in the importance of their family members, and the size of their properties. A very familiar scenario, with an explosive escalation.

Cultural / Context information for the jury

Egyptians are particular when it comes to marriage. Families meet in the name of love, but a battle lies between the pleasantries, with each family trying to top the other in social class and power. Each family will try to show superiority, and many engagements actually collapse in this dangerous dance.

Provide the full film script in English.

(Setting: Two families meet for the first time, for the engagement of a young couple) Bride's mother: Good to see you! What took you so long? Groom's brother: Sorry, someone bumped my car and didn’t stop, but I got his plate number. Bride's mother: Oh! My nephew is a police officer. He can inquire about him. Groom's brother: Really? He must know second cousin, a lawman himself, but a graduate of a Swiss university . Bride's mother: What a coincidence ! My brother is the ambassador in Switzerland.. he got us these chocolates. Groom's brother: Incredible! The milk in these chocolates is from SAFY’s farms, my mother’s cousin. Bride's mother: My great grandfather was also named SAFY, the mayor of Manshia. Groom's mother: Isn’t that photo taken by... Groom's brother: ...Grandfather Shafik! .. the King’s photographer. Bride's mother: We'll throw the wedding at ‘The Pearl’. My uncle’s wedding hall. Groom's brother: My uncle has ‘The Two Pearls’. A larger hall. Bride's mother: Then we’ll invite our family from the countryside. Groom's brother: Our family tree has roots in all Egyptian provinces! Bride's mother: My grandfather built us a mansion full of trees! Groom's brother: My grandfather built himself! Bride's mother: My grandfather built a home where horses roam!! Groom's brother: And my family is all horsemen! Bride's father: Then it’s a deal. Demo: If you’ve you got a large family, we’ve got Hekaya for you. A tariff made for the immediate, and extended family.