Latest news with #LamShamsiya
Watani
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Watani
Catholic Film Centre debates TV series: The silent scourge
On 21 June 2025 the Catholic Film Centre shed light on a TV series that was broadcast last March and focused on a dreaded but rarely publicised social plague: the sexual molestation of children. The TV drama was titled Lam Shamsiya , literally 'L of the Sun', an expression that draws attention to 'silent or silenced features', given that the letter L in the Arabic word for 'the sun' — 'al-Shams' pronounce 'a-shams', with a silent L, is used in Arabic grammar to denote all words that include silent L's. The drama achieved wide viewership and was greatly applauded for having had the courage to tackle a thorny, sensitive issue more often than not swept under the carpet. The TV series tells the story of Nelly, a schoolteacher, who finds out that her stepson was being molested by his father's best friend. The story depicts the emotional trauma she goes through attempting to prove herself right as she faces disbelief and suspicion starting from her own husband. Finally, she proves herself right, and manages to rescue the child and ensure that justice is served. Outstanding narrative Lam Shamsiya and its stars and makers were feted by the CCC in the recent symposium to discuss with them and with the public the significance of the work. The symposium was held at the Nile Hall of the Franciscan Brothers, and witnessed the participation of the drama's stars and makers. Fr Boutros said he was keen to honour the team in recognition of their outstanding contribution to Egyptian TV drama, sending out an effective, humane, direly-needed message that was well received by critics and the public alike. Fr Boutros said the makers of the TV series put a mirror in front of our faces, exposing our inaction and failure before the scourge of child molestation. 'We have been unable to confront the challenge,' he said, 'because of our fear for our image in society. The drama comes with an outstanding plot and a coherent, integrated narrative that bring to life the tragic reality of child molestation.' Among the drama makers who attended the symposium were its director Karim al-Shennawi; writer Mariam Naoum; scriptwriter Ragia Hassan; artistic producer Ahmed Farghali; film editor Baher Rashid; and Nabil al-Qutt, medical and psychological consultant of the series. The actors: Muhammed Shaheen, Yusra al-Lozy, Thara Jubail, Yasmine Al-Abd, Yara Gobran, Faten Saeed, Salma Zaki, and Mustafa Askar; and the talented child and rising star Ali al-Biali were also present. At the close of the symposium, Fr Boutros handed special certificates of appreciation to all the makers and actors of the TV series, and presented to them the CCC shield. The Catholic Cinema Centre stands out for its focus on values of humaneness and human dignity. Through its annual film festival, CCC has been centering on films with humanitarian and moral values. The Catholic Cinema Centre was founded in 1949 at the hands of Mr Mazzaoui who was a critic, cinema historian and prominent figure among those who built Egyptian cinema. Mr Mazzaoui encouraged the Franciscan Friars in Egypt to establish a cinema centre to educate the young. The Catholic Centre Film Festival was born in Cairo in 1952, with the purpose of encouraging and supporting the production of films that carry humanitarian and moral focus. As such, it has always held a distinct, warm-hearted character among film festivals in Egypt. Watani International 2 July 2025 Comments comments
Identity
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Identity
4 Reasons Why We're Excited About Lam Shamseya
Every Ramadan, certain TV series stand out before they even premiere—whether due to a compelling storyline, a strong cast, or themes that spark discussion. This year, Lam Shamseya is already generating buzz even before its release, for its psychological depth and its bold approach to sensitive societal issues. While details remain limited, the series is expected to tackle complex relationships and emotional struggles, with hints of darker themes. Here are four reasons why it's one of the most anticipated shows of the second part of Ramadan. A Gripping and Mysterious Storyline Although the full plot hasn't been revealed yet, the trailer hints at a major conflict that shakes the lives of the main characters. There's tension, emotional confrontations, and a sense of urgency that makes us eager to see how the story unfolds. What exactly happened? How will the characters navigate the challenges ahead? The mystery is already drawing us in. A Strong Cast and Crew Collaboration One of the biggest reasons for the hype is the reunion of director Karim El Shennawy with Amina Khalil and Mohamed Shahin, following their success in El Harsha El Sab3a. Their previous collaboration delivered a raw and emotional portrayal of modern relationships, and fans are eager to see how they bring the same depth to Lam Shamseya. With a talented ensemble cast and a skilled creative team, the series promises strong performances and powerful storytelling. A Fusion of Genres From the trailer, Lam Shamsiya appears to blend different genres, combining elements of drama, suspense, and emotional storytelling. This fusion keeps the series dynamic and engaging, offering moments of intensity, heartfelt emotion, and intrigue all in one. By balancing multiple tones, the show has the potential to appeal to a wide audience and keep viewers hooked throughout Ramadan. A Unique and Unconventional Ramadan Drama Since the show's announcement and the buzz around its proposition of a storyline involving pedophilia, audiences have been eager to see how it will tackle such a sensitive and complex theme. With trailers and promotional material revealing little, anticipation and curiosity continue to build. What's clear, however, is that Lam Shamseya is not a typical Ramadan series—it seeks to push boundaries and deliver deeper storytelling than what viewers are accustomed to during the season. Do you think Lam Shamsiya will be one of Ramadan's most talked-about series?
Al-Ahram Weekly
26-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Al-Ahram Weekly
TV series Lam Shamseya not a true story but reflects social reality: Mariam Naoum - Screens - Arts & Culture
Screenwriter Mariam Naoum stated that Lam Shamseya, her Ramadan series discussing child abuse, "is not a true story, but a reflection of social reality today." This came during an Instagram Live on Monday, during which Naoum and series director Karim El-Shenawy answered audience-generated frequently asked questions. Lam Shamseya tells the story of Nelly (Amina Khalil), who finds out that her stepson, Youssef (Ali Beialy), was sexually harassed by his father's best friend, Wessam (Mohamed Shahin). Naoum explained that the reason behind her interest in the topic of child abuse is due to a project she was involved in many years ago. "I was working on a grant about a girl who was raped at the age of eight, and I decided to work on a project about childhood," she said. "We developed the script, and the first treatment went to Karim El-Shenawy. We continued to develop it, and what we see is the fifth version of Lam Shamseya." Regarding the social class chosen for Youssef's character in the series, Naoum said that she did not craft the story to imply that people in higher social classes are unaffected by the issues discussed. Instead, she emphasized that social problems exist across all classes, and upper-middle-class and educated individuals are not immune to the same challenges explored in the show. "The upper-middle and educated class is not immune to the same problems presented in the series," she commented. Since the launch of the series in mid-Ramadan, viewers and critics alike praised its bold exploration of sensitive and timely social issues, like child sexual abuse and family disintegration. Beialy's portrayal of Youssef has also garnered strong appreciation from viewers and critics alike. As Youssef's mental health has been a concern for many viewers, earlier this week, director El-Shenawy explained on his Facebook page that Sara Aziz, the founder of Safe Egypt and a board member of the National Council for Maternity and Childhood — a child protection organization — has been present on set to focus on the child's mental health and ensure he feels comfortable while filming. "The whole team was trained to work with children and ensure their safety on set," Naoum added. This concern was clarified when Maya Morsi, Minister of Social Solidarity, praised the series on her social media this week. "Lam Shamsiya is a drama that carries a distinctive artistic fingerprint, executed by professionals keen to deliver a true message of awareness," Morsy wrote. She emphasized that drama remains the fastest way to raise awareness and influence society, and it is more effective than conferences and traditional campaigns. Given the series's sensitive topic, the audience asked El-Shenawy if airing Lam Shamseya during Ramadan was the best choice. "Yes, this is the right time," he replied, adding, "When I presented Khaly Balak Min Zizi [Take Care of Zizi, 2021], I was told that the series wasn't suitable for Ramadan. But the audience watched the show and followed the episodes until the end." Naoum and El-Shenawy are known for their bold approach to storytelling. They explore unconventional and sensitive topics that are rarely addressed in mainstream Egyptian media. Among Naoum's well-known screenplays that deeply touched viewers are Segn El-Nesa (Women's Prison), a 2014 TV series inspired by a play written by Fathiya El-Assal, and Taht El-Saytara (Under Control), a 2015 series exploring the world of drug addiction. "People and their stories inspire me,' Naoum said in a 2015 interview while discussing how she embeds real-life stories into the writings and braids their experiences into the characters. El-Shenawy's most recent film, The Tale of Daye's Family (Daye: Seret Ahl El Daye), follows the story of an 11-year-old albino Nubian boy who dreams of going on a magical journey from south to north Egypt to pursue his dream of becoming a singer. Daye was the first Egyptian film to feature an albino actor as the protagonist and screened at the Berlin International Film Festival. Naoum and El-Shenawy previously collaborated on the TV series Take Care of Zizi (2021), featuring Khalil. The series explores the lives of individuals diagnosed with ADHD and their journeys in overcoming daily challenges and building relationships with others. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
Egypt Independent
25-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Egypt Independent
Where and when to watch the ‘Lam Shamsiya' drama series
The 'Lam Shamsiya' Ramadan drama series has received widespread acclaim from audiences for its touching story and stellar performances. Broadcast times and channels The series airs daily during Ramadan on DMC at 7:15 pm Cairo time, with reruns at 1:30 am and 9:15 am. It is also broadcast on DMC Drama, and episodes are available on the Watch iT digital platform. Plot This drama series is written by Mariam Naoum and stars Amina Khalil, Ahmed al-Saadany, Mohamed Shaheen, Yousra al-Lozy, Tharaa Gebail and more. It deals with sensitive societal issues, such as child molestation and abuse. The plot follows a teacher who discovers that several children are being harassed and bullied at school, and she tries her best to support and advocate for them. At the same time, problems arise that threaten the stability of her family.
Egypt Independent
12-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Egypt Independent
Video: Director for Ramadan drama series ‘Lam Shamsiya' unveils official promo
Director Karim al-Shennawy has released the official promo for the Ramadan drama series 'Lam Shamsiya' starring Amina Khalil, scheduled to be shown in the second half of Ramadan 2025. The series aims to shed light on important social issues, including relations between spouses and child abuse. Shennawy commented on the promo via official Facebook account, writing: 'After years of work, fatigue, and long nights, I am happy to share the official announcement of Lam Shamsiya.' He added: 'I am happy and proud that we have reached this point, regardless of the result. Congratulations on the journey to every member of the Lam Shamsiya team and their families who were part of this journey with all its challenges and sweet and difficult moments.' 'Thank you to my wife Sally, my son Rawi, and my entire family for their patience, support, and enduring the details of this journey with all its ups and downs. We will meet in five days, Lam Shamsiya.' The series is written by Mariam Naoum and stars Ahmed al-Saadany, Mohamed Shaheen, Yousra al-Lozy, Tharaa Gebail and more. Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
