The long-awaited resurgence of Egyptian cinema finally arrives in the guise of The Yacoubian Building. Adapted from Alaa Al-Aswany's blockbuster novel, director Marwan Hamed's debut feature is a breathtakingly audacious examination of contemporary Cairo. All the action is centred around the residents of a downtown Cairo apartment block, as the lives of a seemingly disparate group of individuals hurtle towards each other with fateful consequences. Tackling everything from Islamic fundamentalism to homosexuality and corruption, the film was a cause célèbre on its release in Egypt where it proceeded to smash box office records and spark unprecedented debate. Featuring a cast that reads as a who's who of the best in Arab film talent, Hamed's film boasts a career-best performance from legendary comedian Adel Imam, as well as stellar appearances from Nour El-Sherif, Yousra and rising star Hend Sabry. A film that manages to be timely, thought provoking and entertaining.

Egypt, 2006 / Marawan Hamed
With Adel Imam, Nour El-Sherif, Yousra
165 mins