El-Hawa Sultan, written and directed by Heba Yousry, stars Menna Shalaby and Ahmed Dawood and was released in cinemas in November.

The film could be seen as a typical love story between a boy and a girl who grew up side by side, with their relationship blossoming with each passing day and year.

The movie's cast chose the song Ana Men Ghairak by Bahaa Sultan as their promotional theme across all social media platforms.

This song, with lyrics by Mona El-Qeiei and composition by Aziz El-Shafei, was a compelling choice that motivated people to watch the film.

The film tells the story of a girl, Sara (Menna Shalaby), who finds contentment in her life, firmly declaring her lack of desire for anything more. In contrast, the boy, Ali (Ahmed Dawood), is consumed by anxiety, yearning for a future that reflects the glamorous lifestyles showcased on social media.

With this backdrop, Sara grapples with her emotional turmoil, triggered by her father’s marriage shortly after her mother’s death. Due to this loss, she retreats into solitude, seeking solace away from family ties.

On the surface, the narrative may not appear to contain the elements of an unforgettable drama that elicits laughter and tears and keeps audiences riveted until the final credits roll.

However, Yousry masterfully weaves this seemingly ordinary tale into something remarkable. She crafts moments that fill the cinema with laughter and evoke heartfelt sighs from the audience.

Social classes under scrutiny
 

This seemingly ordinary love story sheds light on a significant issue of our time: the sense of alienation within one's homeland that a substantial segment of the middle class experiences. 

The film mainly reflects two segments of the contemporary middle class: the middle middle class, which was once part of the upper class but has declined due to economic factors, and the upper middle class, which has maintained its status by engaging in the global capitalist system.

This upper middle class is characterized by frequenting modern nightclubs, speaking English interspersed with Arabic, and leading lives filled with noisy activities.

They often lack moments of silence to reflect or enjoy simple pleasures and are preoccupied with shopping, cosmetic products, acquiring the latest gadgets, and immersing themselves in Western cultures. Their lives appear to revolve around a relentless work cycle and material aspirations.

Sara and Ali embody the middle middle class, a group clinging to economic privileges remnants. Each owns a modest car, works in an unremarkable job, and resides in a typical Heliopolis home.

However, Rami (Ahmed Khaled Saleh) and Lily (Gihan El-Shamashergy) represent the upper middle class deeply immersed in the trappings of capitalist opulence.

Their world is defined by luxury cars, frequent visits to chic Western-style nightclubs, and a wardrobe that follows the latest fashion trends. 

Ali and Sara's separation, during which they connect with Lily and Rami, respectively, sets the stage for a clash between two social classes. This conflict highlights the sense of alienation both protagonists experience within a demanding modern system. 

As a result, the protagonists find themselves striving for a lifestyle they do not embrace, which can ultimately harm their well-being.

Finally, the film prompts a critical question: Is a life filled with evening attire, tequila shots, loud dancing, and constant shopping for the latest fashions what the middle class should aspire to? Or should we instead aim to preserve the ordinary life that Ali and Sarah had?