Tuesday, July 2, 2024 at 11:04 p.m.
Art – written by Amir El-Tohamy – Although 19 years have passed since the release of the film “The Magician,” it remains a cinematic landmark and the debut of the outstanding artist Menna Shalaby, showcasing her most daring role to date.
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Young artist Menna Shalaby revealed her mother’s reaction after learning about the steamy scene she performed in the film “The Magician,” where she lost control in the face of her lover’s kiss. The film, directed by the late Radwan Alkashev, became renowned.
Menna Shalaby shared in a previous interview about the film “The Illusionist,” “When my mother learned that my colleague Sari Al-Najjar kissed me in one of the scenes, she assured her that we were together. But my mother was shocked. She acted like kissing until she saw the scenes, then she slapped me and said, ‘My argument failed.’ Of course, I was young, and it was a very difficult day in my life.”
You may not remember his name, but you will definitely remember his role as Hamouda, who falls in love with Menna Chalabi. Sari Al-Najjar began his journey in cinema through his discoverer, the late director Osama Fawzi, in the 1999 film “Devil’s Paradise,” featuring actors Mahmoud Hamida and Lebleba.
Osama Fawzi had seen him in a theater play and requested his casting for “Devil’s Paradise.” He selected him from a thousand nominees, as the casting process involved an advertisement in a newspaper.
Sari Al-Najjar stated that “Devil’s Paradise” was his first experience, and Osama Fawzi significantly helped him. He struggled with reading Arabic and honed his acting skills at American University. He worked together with Fawzi on “Devil’s Paradise.” Actors Amr Waked, Sarah Fahmy, and Caroline Khalil were also part of the film. Rehearsals began in Fawzi’s office in the city center.
He considers Mahmoud Hemida as his mentor and the first artist he worked with in cinema, due to his passion for Hemida.
After appearing in various films like “Devil’s Paradise,” “The City,” “The Magician,” “The Fall of Adam,” and “Fish Dale,” he vanished from the scene for many years before appearing in the Jordanian series “Makhawi Al-Dheeb.”
However, he did not repeat the experience. Sari Al-Najjar currently resides with his family in Stockholm, Sweden, away from the world of cinema and the spotlight.
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The Magician: A Look Back at the Landmark Film and a Daring Role for Menna Shalaby
The 2005 film “The Magician” has cemented its place as a cinematic landmark, and it remains a source of fascination for audiences today. One of the reasons for its lasting appeal is the groundbreaking performance by Menna Shalaby, who showcased her acting prowess and courage in portraying a complex character that pushed the boundaries of Egyptian cinema.
Menna Shalaby’s Daring Performance and Mother’s Reaction
Menna Shalaby’s portrayal of a young woman grappling with her desires and the complexities of love resonated with audiences. However, her portrayal also drew the attention of her mother, who was not prepared for the level of intimacy depicted in the film.
In a past interview, Shalaby revealed her mother’s reaction to learning about the passionate scene in which she shared a kiss with her co-star, Sari Al-Najjar. Shalaby assured her mother that the scene was just acting, but her mother remained unconvinced, and she was visibly upset when she finally saw the film. This experience highlights how Shalaby’s willingness to embrace challenging roles and push boundaries made “The Magician” a film that sparked conversation and reflection.
Sari Al-Najjar: The Rising Star of “The Magician”
Sari Al-Najjar’s role as Hamouda in “The Magician” might have been a breakout performance, but his journey into the world of cinema started much earlier, in 1999, with the film “Devil’s Paradise.”
Al-Najjar’s path to acting was one of serendipity. The late director Osama Fawzi discovered him while attending a theater performance. Impressed by his talent, Fawzi cast Al-Najjar in “Devil’s Paradise,” giving him a chance to shine alongside experienced actors like Mahmoud Hamida and Lebleba. It was a crucial experience that set him on the path to becoming a successful actor.
From “Devil’s Paradise” to “The Magician”
Al-Najjar’s initial experience in “Devil’s Paradise” laid the foundation for his acting career. He would go on to appear in several other films, including “The City,” “The Magician,” “The Fall of Adam,” and “Fish Dale,” steadily gaining recognition as a talented actor.
A Career on Hold and a New Life in Sweden
While Al-Najjar’s career was gaining momentum, he made a decision to step away from the spotlight after a series of memorable roles. He currently resides in Stockholm, Sweden, with his family, focusing on a new chapter in his life.
The Lasting Legacy of “The Magician”
“The Magician” remains a testament to the power of cinematic storytelling and the ability of actors to push boundaries and captivate audiences. The film also serves as a reminder of the talented artists who contribute to the richness of Egyptian cinema. The performances of Menna Shalaby and Sari Al-Najjar in “The Magician” continue to be celebrated for their authenticity and raw emotion, leaving a lasting impression on viewers and cementing their roles in the history of Egyptian cinema.
The film’s enduring appeal underscores the importance of filmmakers and actors in shaping cultural narratives and sparking conversations that transcend time. “The Magician” stands as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of cinema on individuals and society.