Eagles of the Republic (2025) Movie Script
Fares Fares
In a film by Tarik Saleh
Lyna Khoudri
Amr Waked
With Zineb Triki
Cherien Dabis
Sherwan Haji,
Ahmed Khairy, Nael
Donia Massoud, Suhaib Nashwan
Production Designer
Roger Rosenberg
Director of Photography
Pierre Am - AFC
Original Music by
Alexandre Desplat
Editor
Theis Schmidt
Costume Designer Virginie Montel
Makeup Artist Saara Risnen
Executive Producer Emil Wiklund
FAD Olivier Jacquet - AFAR
Sound Design Hans Mller
VFX Supervisor Peter Hjorth
Produced by Johan Lindstrm,
Linda Mutawi,
Linus Sthr Torell,
Alexandre Mallet-Guy
EAGLES OF THE REPUBLIC
Ten thousand on Diamond-Fox.
Three thousand on Lighting-Thunder.
The race is starting soon.
Hosam, three thousand on Lighting Thunder.
I'm not taking anymore, the race is starting.
Too late, the race has started!
Come on, faster!
Thanks!
Incredible.
Fantastic.
Are you sure? It shouldn't look silly.
It's like a scene
in an Antonioni film.
- Right then.
- Come on!
We'll take Rula's close-up.
George?
Your son has called three times.
Text him. Say I'm in a meeting.
A long, boring meeting.
And that I miss him.
- It's his birthday today.
- Damn it.
Buy...
Buy a watch for him.
A Breitling Navitimer.
PHARAOH OF THE SILVER SCREEN GEORGE FAHMY
RULA HADDAD
HAPPY BIRTHDAY RAMI
Look at that!
Isn't it incredible? Art made of milk.
Open it.
Breitling Navitimer.
Made for the British
when they occupied Iraq
after the First World War.
This one belonged to Saddam.
Thanks, Dad.
She's never late.
Young love, beautiful!
Is that why your girlfriend
is my age?
Who said that?
Your mom, right?
It was on the internet.
Don't believe everything you read.
Hi.
Hi!
How are you?
This is Mai,
who I told you about.
You smell good.
Cut it out.
- I don't wear perfume.
- Sit down.
What do you want to drink?
A Stella.
- Do you like beer?
- Yes.
Then I like you.
- How are you?
- Good. Happy birthday.
Thanks. What's this?
- Two Stellas. For me and her.
- One for me too.
I don't want to spoil anything
but it's really good.
- You've read it?
- Yes.
WHITE TEETH
ZADIE SMITH
I'll read it.
How did you meet?
- You know Khaled.
- Khaled?
When we went jet skiing.
He's Mai's cousin.
And Mai loves Pink Floyd.
- Dad introduced me to them.
- You have good taste.
- What did you do yesterday?
- Watched a movie.
That man over there is making me uncomfortable.
- Tell him to leave.
- Absolutely.
It's called "Beau Travail".
A French film.
Directed by Claire Denis.
She is incredible...
Truly.
The imagery, the music...
I'll have to see it then.
Congratulations.
If you're just going to sit on your phone
we can go home.
George! Darling!
Fawzy.
Yasser Islam.
George Fahmy.
Do you know each other?
Yes. A legend.
You made me want to become an actor.
Madame Suzanne.
George Fahmy.
A pleasure.
How beautiful you are.
Are you an actor like your dad?
No, he isn't my dad.
We're just friends.
Yes, I'm an actor.
Fantastic.
Who is she?
Don't ask.
Married to a higher-up.
How high up?
By the way, George...
We are a group of artists
who have created a petition
against the traitors
who are trying to smear
the army and the president.
Would you like to join?
Who dares to criticize the president?
And why?
The economy is booming.
No power outages.
Prices are reasonable.
Everything is absolutely wonderful
and fantastic.
We must protect our country.
The enemy is everywhere.
Then it's best we hide at home.
I see no contradiction
between being an artist
and a patriot at the same time.
Sure,
you're right.
Excuse me... your name is?
It doesn't matter.
You'll forget it anyway.
Suzanne.
You sound like my Dad.
Huh?
What do you mean?
Your agent was going to help me get
a screen test for the new series.
He doesn't like me.
He doesn't like anyone.
Everyone thinks I'm with you
for the sake of my career.
President Al-Sisi
is signing a new law
that limits fuel subsidies
to reduce inflation...
Madame Rula is here,
should I tell her you're sleeping?
No, show her in.
85% of Egyptians
are in favor of the proposal.
Have a seat!
What is it?
They came to my house.
Who did?
They want me to do
a TV interview about you.
Why?
I'm supposed to say you hate Islam.
That you have insulted the Prophet
and a bunch of other bullshit.
And that I refuse
to work with you.
What are you afraid of?
Don't worry.
They can't do anything.
People love you.
You're Rula Haddad.
They can get to anyone.
Even you.
It's cool, whatever you decide.
I understand.
- Do you want a ride home?
- My driver is outside.
What is this?
They aren't even married.
We always follow our morals, our faith
and our customs.
What faith is that?
According to our faith,
as it was revealed to the Prophet,
everything you do is a sin.
Did you know that Ibn al-Haytham
lived in Egypt
when he wrote
his treatise on optics
in the 11th century?
He played crazy
to avoid reprisals
from the state.
He was the foremost scientist
of his time.
Back then, we were the foremost in the world.
What are we today?
We are drowning in immoral
Turkish TV series.
"Pharaoh of the Silver Screen".
You have seduced the whole country.
It seems as if
the law of gravity doesn't apply to you.
You and your degenerate friends
have dragged our nation into the dirt.
That ends now.
It stops here.
What does that mean?
We have to reshoot the ending.
Are you serious?
WITH EGYPT TOWARDS A BRIGHT FUTURE
ABDEL FATTAH AL-SISI
EGYPT NATIONAL STUDIO
- Good morning.
- Good morning.
Just drive on through.
- What is this?
- Gaby gave the order to move it.
My trailer has stood here for 15 years.
It's in my contract, damn it!
Have you called Fawzy?
Call Fawzy.
- They moved George's trailer.
- Give it here.
Hello?
I've been replaced!
Yes.
With Yasser Islam.
- Is he in there?
- Wait, he's busy!
How can you replace George?
The Pharaoh of the Silver Screen!
Named best actor
for "The Impossible Choice".
Played the lead role
in "The First Egyptian in Space",
the most profitable film that year!
You've replaced him
with Yasser Islam?
Who made a career taking
the roles George turned down.
Have you lost it!
It's senseless!
Calm down.
I know what a big star he is.
Keep singing!
George, they are after you.
They claim you're for democracy
and human rights.
For democracy?
Huh? What rights? For whom?
Who said that?
Tell them
that I am still a Trotskyist.
A Trotskyist? God, no!
Say he's a patriot,
that he loves his country.
And above all, Gaby,
he is a capitalist.
And you're going to pay him.
I don't understand.
Why are you still driving around
in a clunker?
Don't call her that.
She'll be offended.
She's my first love.
A Bugatti? Range Rover?
People will think I'm a bad agent.
Nothing compares to my Jaguar.
Do you have time for a drink at Coco's?
Someone up there is after you,
George.
- The military has an offer.
- Over my dead body.
They might be behind this.
No.
I don't care.
I don't work for the regime.
Everything they touch rots and dies.
They want you to play
"number one".
"The Mexican"?
It's his idea. He's a fan.
He's the worst thing that's happened to the country
since the war in 1967.
He saved the country.
We are nothing alike.
I am 1.86m.
I could play Abdel Nasser,
he was 1.83m.
Even Sadat, he was 1.79m.
That works.
With a little imagination, maybe
Mubarak, he was 1.70m.
But this little man is 1.66m!
- George.
- What?
No one turns them down.
Not even you.
To me, art is sacred.
I never compromise on my principles.
Principles are worse than AIDS.
The film is about a man
who becomes a leader.
It takes place before the coup.
The popular revolution, I mean.
That sounds like shit!
Call Donya.
She thinks you hate her.
Listen... Donya is a whore.
Excuse me?
Okay, for your sake then.
What do you want me to say?
That she has a future in film.
Goodbye.
Do you want me to invite him up
when I'm gone?
Have you gone crazy, darling?
Do you think I'm an idiot?
You've always stolen everything from me.
But to sleep with my husband...
I don't have a sister anymore.
I never want to see you again.
What do you think?
Good. It's really good.
But...
try not to think so much
about what you're saying.
Darling, listen.
Words are the clothes thoughts wear.
The feeling is what counts.
Fuck off!
Where are you going?
Where are you going?
Acting opposite the superstar,
Pharaoh of the Silver Screen,
George Fahmy...
She looks so old.
Right?
Wasn't he trying to reunite
that Coptic girl
with her Christian family?
After she converted
to Islam?
Come on, Maha.
I don't like
gossiping about my colleagues.
Doesn't he stand close to Pope Tawadros?
George is our biggest star.
And...
...a great patriot.
He loves Egypt.
We often speak of
our love for Egypt
and our gratitude to the president...
And his wife, Marianne?
They are never seen together anymore.
They never go to events together.
How is she doing?
Why don't you invite her here
and ask?
Okay. I guess I'll have to do that.
- How are you, Sayed?
- Hi.
Are you going to count the stars again?
You know it.
Take care of yourselves.
Be safe.
What's going on?
The road is closed.
How much?
Nothing.
What do you want?
Is this your son?
He goes to the American University
downtown, right?
A lot of car accidents in that area.
Tell him to be careful.
Are you threatening me?
Who do you work for?
Good evening, George.
Damn it!
- Why isn't the key working?
- I changed the locks.
Call first.
I could have had someone here.
I want to see my son.
He's sleeping. It's the middle of the night!
I'm sleeping on the couch.
What is it this time?
Someone threatened me.
- Who?
- It doesn't matter.
So you're scared
and you want us to comfort you?
I got worried about my son.
Whose daughter or wife
have you slept with this time?
Aren't you a bit too old for that?
It's the right decision.
They threatened my son, Fawzy.
Don't worry.
No one can hurt you now.
George Fahmy!
What an honor.
Ahmed Abu Talaat.
CEO of Unlimited Media Group.
Welcome.
Thank you.
Gentlemen, give him some room.
George.
As CEO of Unlimited Media Group
it's an honor for all of us
to get to work with such a legend.
Thank you.
Would you like to say a few words?
George Fahmy.
Thank you.
It is a great honor for me...
...to be a part of this journey.
Thank you.
THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE
Come, I'll introduce you
to Dr. Mansour.
- Who?
- Dr. Mansour.
Follow me.
- A pleasure.
- Same to you.
- I'm glad you're on board.
- Thank you.
I hope we can achieve
something great together.
Me too.
Dr. Mansour
is from the President's office.
He will oversee our work.
Nice.
Shall we go?
- Goodbye.
- Goodbye.
What do you think?
I like that it takes place
before the revolution.
- Can I smoke here?
- Relax, Tarek.
The film isn't a tribute to the army.
I asked for you as director.
I want your honest opinion.
Are changes needed?
Do you believe
that this was how it went down?
How should I put it?
Can we talk a bit?
Do you understand what they want us to do?
Do you understand the situation?
We are going to paint the great pharaoh
while he is still alive.
While he sits on the throne.
What do you think they will do?
What happens if we make
his nose too big?
I don't care about his nose.
All I want to know
is if you can turn this shit
into something meaningful.
Of course not.
Why did you agree to it, then?
George! Do you really wonder about that?
For the same reason you did.
George Fahmy doesn't make bad movies.
I need you, Tarek.
I need you.
You have integrity.
Come on.
George, you can't drive your car in.
What am I supposed to do then? Walk?
No, the studio has a golf cart.
My God...
Can I have my script?
PHARAOH OF THE SILVER SCREEN
PLAYS PRESIDENT AL-SISI
Good morning.
- I'm not done yet.
- Okay...
Just a short moment.
Take a picture, Medo.
Wait until I'm finished.
I'll look exactly like him
- Right?
- Like God created him.
I have to take a picture of you.
Take the picture and send it.
You look fantastic.
Who is that?
Medo, my new assistant.
Is your name "Me Too"?
Almost. Medo.
Come on! He's in his senior year
at university.
He's helping me.
Let me see.
- Hair.
- Huh?
- They want him to have hair.
- Huh?
He's been bald since preschool.
Get the producer.
Mahmoud, take off the bald cap.
- Why?
- They want him to have your hair.
Listen now.
They want George Fahmy,
not the president.
Don't look at me like that.
I didn't mean it that way.
It will be better.
You won't have to sit in makeup
for hours.
Okay. Take it off.
The belly and the double chin too.
No!
- Listen to me.
- Hell no!
You'll look better.
Why are you getting upset?
- I want to be Al-Sisi.
- You will be.
You're going to play Al-Sisi.
Then I have to look like him.
You are going to be him.
Sit down.
Please, George.
- It's better for you.
- Better how?
The film isn't about George Fahmy,
but about Al-Sisi.
And you are going to play Al-Sisi.
There's a toilet in your trailer
and another one right outside.
The snacks you asked for
are in your trailer.
- But no mortadella.
- No?
No, apparently it was impossible.
I got you Om Ali pudding.
Gluten-free...
Good morning.
- Hi.
- Stay seated.
What an honor.
I am a huge fan.
You have to see this!
Do an impression of Mubarak.
The situation is critical.
I told President Arafat
that he had no choice.
Do an impression of Al-Sisi.
Please, don't.
If you'll excuse me,
I have something to tell you.
The youth of Egypt...
Right?
Please.
I want to shake your hand.
Today you are appointed
as Minister of Defense
in Tantawi's place.
Do I know
that they will nominate me?
According to the script,
Tantawi knew
and he asked you to accept.
Why is that?
You are his favorite.
and he knows you will
be loyal to him.
He wants to ensure
that the Muslim Brotherhood
doesn't control the army.
Okay.
Hurry up.
Take your places.
Clap.
And... action!
In the name of God, the Most Gracious,
I solemnly swear
to protect the republic,
respect the constitution
and the laws
and defend the interests of the people,
our nation's independence
and the integrity of the country.
Thank you!
Very nice, George.
Why aren't you clapping?
We can do another take,
but this one was good.
- Keep an eye on it.
- Yes, sir.
Take care.
Good evening.
Peace be upon you and may God save you.
Panadol and a...
Panadol and?
Viagra.
Panadol and Viagra?
Just a moment.
Panadol...
...and Viagra.
Fifty pounds.
George Fahmy?
Nah.
Yes, you are George Fahmy.
Dad, look who's here.
The great movie star George Fahmy.
Good evening.
I am a huge fan
and have followed you for a long time.
I download all your movies.
Look. Who is this?
You are outstanding.
You are a superstar, a VIP.
The best!
Thank you.
They aren't for me.
Of course not. Wait.
I can't believe it.
George Fahmy in our pharmacy!
It's incredible.
But why Viagra? It's no good.
It gives you migraines and diarrhea.
The newest drug is called Cialis.
It makes you hard as steel.
Like a pharaoh at home.
No diarrhea or headaches.
And it lasts for hours!
And your wife... or whoever it is...
will be pleased.
You'll be harder than the Sphinx.
There is a cheaper alternative
called Kamagra.
It comes from Thailand.
But it's a bit hit or miss.
Sorry, what am I talking about?
You don't care about the price.
A big star like you.
They're not for me, I said.
I know.
Everyone says that.
No one will believe me
when I say you were here.
- Don't tell anyone.
- Of course not.
Discretion is part of my job.
What an honor! Can we take a selfie?
No, thanks.
Why not?
Can I pay now?
Of course. No problem.
- So Panadol and Viagra.
- Fifty pounds?
- Here.
- Thank you.
Goodbye.
It was an honor!
An honor to meet you!
- Open a bottle of champagne.
- Okay.
What's wrong?
What is it, darling?
Dad died yesterday.
I thought you hated him.
You don't understand.
I also had a really shitty relationship
with my dad.
But after his death
that changed.
And all my anger towards him disappeared.
- Did it?
- Yes.
I mourned his absence
and missed him.
Do you think I
will miss Dad?
Maybe, with time.
You obviously
know nothing about me.
Forgive him?
After the hell
he put me and Mom through?
You think...
it's in women's nature
to forgive.
Is it?
I know it's not that simple.
I love you.
My dad loved your movies.
That's why I wanted to be with you.
To provoke him.
Do you have an erection?
Wait, I can explain.
Does my grieving turn you on?
I can explain.
The Muslim Brotherhood fears only
our almighty God, as you know.
If you follow us
we all stand united.
Mr. President,
I'm sorry, but I can't.
What?
Where is he?
What is it?
Don't they like it?
Yes, it's great.
It's really great.
But...
But... Maybe we can try again.
Say your lines like...
Like you believe in what you're saying.
What are you saying?
If you...
I mean, we can run the scene again,
but take it down a notch.
What the fuck?
- What do you mean?
- Nothing.
- I don't know.
- You don't know?
I'm staying in my trailer
until you know!
George, please...
Let's just do one more take.
If you have something to say,
say it to me.
You're not convincing.
You're overacting.
I am George Fahmy.
Pharaoh of the Silver Screen.
My movies have paid for
all the film studios in the country.
What does that have to do
with what I said?
I'm talking about what I just saw.
You weren't good.
Okay.
Fire me, then.
"Words are the clothes thoughts wear."
Samuel Beckett.
Can I trust you, General?
I am the President-elect.
Mr. President,
I swore allegiance to the constitution.
And to swear allegiance to anything else
is to betray
the constitutional oath.
Anything else, Mr. President?
No.
Thank you!
Fantastic. The best scene
we've filmed so far.
- You shouldn't be afraid of me.
- But you are the president.
No.
In this scene
you are the president.
So act like a president.
Okay, let's go again.
Good job.
- How are things?
- Great!
I ordered your favorite sashimi.
Thanks.
Spit it out.
You're invited to the presentation of
the new capital.
Afterwards, you have been invited,
by the highest officer of the army
Minister of Defense Nasser Al-Ghul,
to his private residence.
You might get a medal.
A medal?
For my lack of integrity?
Listen, my friend.
Early Thursday evening,
a limousine will pick you up.
Mr. George!
Hurry, they've taken Yousri's son.
I haven't seen my son since yesterday.
What's going on?
Yousri's son wrote something online.
They took him last night.
I just want to know where he is.
He is disturbing the peace.
He's my neighbor.
He's never done anything.
You must have made a mistake.
We're just doing our job.
- I know. Let me speak to him.
- Alright then.
What is it, Yousri?
They've arrested my son, George.
They took him!
We'll go upstairs.
We'll sort it out.
- How?
- Nothing gets sorted out down here.
- They arrested him!
- I understand, but...
I don't know where he is!
We'll sort it out. Go upstairs now.
- My God...
- Go upstairs!
The crescents are covered
with stainless steel,
coated with PVD.
Which gives the golden color you see.
The army's engineering department
was keen to use
Egyptian marble for the mosque
and insisted that the workforce
be 100 percent Egyptian.
Mr. George!
We are proud of how you
portray the man
that we all admire.
Let me introduce you.
General Montaser Hegazy, Chief of Staff.
I congratulate you on behalf of the army.
I admire your patriotic efforts
in the service of the country.
I head the President's
re-election committee.
- Would you like to join?
- It would be an honor.
The General's wife.
- A pleasure.
- Good evening.
The Minister of the Interior. You know each other.
A pleasure to see you again.
George.
We are all your fans.
Thank you.
His Excellency's wife.
Nice to meet you.
I've seen all your movies.
I feel honored. Thank you.
George, my wife.
- Nice to meet you.
- Same to you.
The Minister of Defense and his wife.
Thank you for the invitation.
We are glad you are here.
My wife.
George Fahmy.
An honor.
- Here you go.
- Thank you.
Where is your wife?
Unfortunately, we are separated.
Doesn't the Coptic church forbid
divorce?
We aren't divorced,
but we don't live together.
Leave him be, my love.
Don't start preaching ethics now.
Get me some pita bread.
George is a living legend.
I am no legend.
Save that for the dead.
Did you know that Shakespeare
was of Arab descent?
His real name is Sheikh Zoubir.
That's why he disliked Jews.
He was born in Stratford.
Who, madame?
William Shakespeare.
I read in a book
that he was born in Baghdad.
My wife is always right.
Of course.
Don't belittle me, darling.
I would never dare.
I'm serious.
My wife actually has
a master's degree in history from the Sorbonne.
She lived in France for many years.
Is it possible, Madame Suzanne,
that the British claim
Shakespeare
just as they do
with mathematics, astronomy
and the Rosetta Stone?
He was baptized in Holy Trinity Church
in 1564.
During the 19th century,
Arab intellectuals came up
with the story of Sheikh Zoubir.
A century later, Gaddafi
revived
the story
when he was high on hash.
Do you know why?
I think,
that because Arab men
have been totally castrated
they buy into
any claim that says Arabs
invented something of value.
Thank you for your inspiring words,
my dear.
When he went to university
he was good at football
but useless at his studies.
I need to make an important call.
It's an honor for me
to work with you.
- Excuse me.
- Don't mention it.
Don't worry.
Here you are among friends.
We are the shield that protects the country.
We are the Eagles of the Republic.
If there's anything you need,
just say the word.
Tell me,
what can I do for you?
Thank you, nothing, really.
I have everything I need, thanks.
Not material things.
We can change anything.
There is a person
I would like to help.
If it is possible.
It is.
My neighbor's son has been arrested.
They are good people.
It's probably a mistake.
What is his name?
Adel Yousri Ramzy.
Sometimes the security services make mistakes.
Colonel Ibrahim? Good evening.
A young man has been arrested by mistake.
What did you say his name was?
Adel Yousri Ramzy.
Student?
Yes, medical school at Ain Al-Shams.
Medical school at Ain Al-Shams.
Thank you.
He never listens to me.
- How are you?
- Good.
The President
will attend
the October 6th ceremonies.
I have a great idea.
How about giving the opening speech?
I don't know...
What is it you don't know?
Are you too "big" for us?
Nah. You misunderstand me.
It would be an honor, of course.
It has to be a surprise.
You know,
people around him talk too much.
The country is in a state of dissolution.
If everything goes to hell,
what do we do
when we have eliminated the Brotherhood?
God damn it!
Show some resistance, talk back!
You treat me like I'm God!
- George.
- Don't you get it?
I'm not president yet.
I'm scared.
I don't know who I can trust.
There's no oxygen at the top.
If you're afraid, you force me
to act, not react.
- George!
- What do you want?
- Calm down.
- No!
This is bullshit!
Push this scene
up against the wall
and start humping it!
You say your lines
like they're going to bite you.
You should be thinking:
he's crazy, he's wrong.
The country is in a state of dissolution.
What do we do
when we have eliminated the Brotherhood?
That's it! Come on, here we go.
That's enough.
How much time do we have?
Ten minutes.
Come on, Asfour.
Did you get my Om Ali pudding?
Do you have a moment?
Wait.
We need to talk.
Alone.
It's okay, go ahead.
I advise you
to be very careful
when you speak about the president.
Am I interfering with your work?
This is my work.
Don't make assumptions about the president.
You don't know him.
You know nothing about him.
If I'm going to create a believable character
I need to use my imagination.
Keep your imagination to yourself.
Acting is about sharing.
It's expressive.
- As a producer...
- Are you a producer?
Here is your contract.
Sign it when you have time.
All copies.
I don't sign contracts.
I keep my promises.
It's a different kind of production,
with insurance...
Insurance?
Are we in Finland, or what?
Mr. George, welcome home.
Thank you, George.
Thank you.
- I owe you my life.
- Oh, come on.
Your son is innocent.
It was a mistake.
Thank you, Uncle George.
Thank you so much.
Welcome home, kid.
- Thank you.
- Good night.
Don't lie down.
We're going to the P-Lounge.
Please, can't you go by yourself?
I want to go with you.
Thank you for your generous donations,
so that we can spread awareness
about breast cancer.
We miss you.
Why don't you come
to mass anymore?
I've been so busy.
Too busy for God?
We heard you were having
problems at home.
Thank you, Father, it's been resolved.
This is... my son's friend.
I hope you will come on Sunday,
with your wife.
We will come.
- Good evening, George.
- Good evening.
Do you never stop playing your roles?
Do you want something from the bar?
Champagne.
A glass of mango juice.
Madame Afaf.
Mr. George.
So even the censors
appreciate free drinks?
Nothing is free.
You are drinking in public.
You should respect the role
you are playing.
Our president is a devout Muslim.
Hi, George!
Dance with us.
A little later.
What a pleasant coincidence.
What do you mean?
We met at a dinner
a few days ago, madame.
Ah, the actor...
No wonder you're here.
Why, because the evening is about...
...breasts?
Breast cancer, George.
So you know my name, madame?
This area is cordoned off.
Are you...
...a cordoned-off area?
A minefield.
Interesting...
Because I'm a minesweeper.
Sir?
- What?
- Excuse me.
Rula Haddad is here.
She asked me to wake you.
Are you alone?
She's sleeping.
I have no one else...
I haven't paid my rent.
No one is answering my calls.
Not even my agent.
Why? What happened?
What do they say you've done?
I don't know.
I might be on their list.
Can you find out?
You're working with them now.
I need to work, George.
Wait here.
What is this?
60,000. Just a little help.
I can't accept that.
It's fine.
I would have gambled it away anyway.
Take it.
Hi, good morning!
Let's run it again.
What an honor!
Hi.
Hi.
This is the scene
with the visit to Tanta,
when he was Minister of Defense.
Is this supposed to be Tanta?
Yes, that's right.
But...
It looks better on camera.
I want to thank you.
Thank you for helping
my neighbor's son.
Of course we'll help you.
This is a bit embarrassing, but...
I could use some advice.
What is it about?
I have a friend,
a talented actress.
She seems to have been blacklisted.
- What's her name?
- Rula Haddad.
Do you have her number?
Of course.
She is a close friend.
How close?
No, not like that.
Don't worry.
I will personally take care of it.
Thank you.
Come on, let's retake the scene.
Let's do it, Tarek.
I understand.
You want a bad boy
who also prays to God.
What is this?
I'll call you back.
Where are you going?
To the opening
of that stupid festival.
You didn't tell me that.
I have nothing to wear.
I'm taking my son.
What?
Yes, he wants a picture of us
on the red carpet.
Since when are you trying to be father of the year?
Please, no drama.
It's perfect!
How are you?
Come on.
Sorry, VIPs only.
Dad!
George!
So you're playing the president?
That's fantastic.
Come on, move over.
I actually thought they were going to call me.
- Maybe they didn't have your number.
- Touch!
Nice.
Shall we take a picture together?
- George!
- He's my dad!
Dad!
George, we love you, George!
Here, look here!
Where is Rami?
Have you seen my son?
Has anyone seen George's son?
It's George Fahmy's son!
- Take it easy.
- What idiots!
He's here now, it's okay.
Don't make a scene.
It's fine.
Get something to drink.
Get something to drink.
The night is young.
- How's it going with your girlfriend?
- Good, I think.
Shall we get some food?
What about the photo on the red carpet?
It's too crowded.
CHECK IN NOW, RAMSES HILTON HOTEL
NAME: MR. SHAKESPEARE
RESERVATION NAME: MR. SHAKESPEARE
- Good evening.
- Good evening.
I have a reservation
under "Shakespeare".
You work as a teacher.
Did you google me?
You went to Saint Clare's
in Heliopolis.
And you were second best in your class.
No!
I was top of my class.
But I didn't suck up to the teachers.
The suck-ups always gave presents.
Do you want to do a commercial
for bathroom tiles?
It's good money
for a day's work
plus a bathroom renovation.
I agreed to this,
not just anything.
I'm transferring the money to Dubai
to pay off the apartment.
Wow!
It looks like Cecil B. DeMille's
"The Ten Commandments".
They're spending money like water.
Listen.
This is the day Morsi was overthrown.
You are welcomed as the liberator of the people.
Imagine being Abdel Nasser in 1956.
Sure.
Three, two, one...
Action!
The army and the people are one hand!
Freedom! Freedom!
Sisi, Sisi, you are our leader!
Tell me...
Yasser Islam?
Is there something between him
and the General's wife?
Absolutely not.
How can you be so sure?
He's gay.
Stop fantasizing.
I swear. He sucked me off.
It was so-so,
but he's no amateur.
Congratulations.
Why do you ask?
We can continue.
Relax.
THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE
I ran into the bishop the other day.
We have to go to mass together.
Tell him I have COVID.
Sure.
Get dressed.
We're going to church.
Come on.
What is it?
She just wants to be friends.
She doesn't have those feelings for me.
You're a nice guy.
Girls don't like nice guys.
Is that why you treat Mom
like shit?
What?
Who are you?
How can you ask your dad that?
Who are you?
You surround yourself with people you despise.
Aren't you being a bit hard on me now?
Do you realize you've sold out?
Maybe.
But I did it for your sake.
For you, Rami.
Do you remember anything about us?
Yes.
I remember when I held you
for the first time.
You were a little baby.
And suddenly I felt
my heart grow,
as if my life had found meaning.
That's a line from your movie...
"The Impossible Choice".
Rami...
Was your son happy with the pictures
from the red carpet?
Yes, very happy.
Let me see the pictures.
He's not in any of the pictures.
You were with the General's wife.
You fucking liar. You asshole!
I'm going to tell everyone
you're old
and that you belong to the limp dick club.
Can't we just leave?
I have an apartment in Dubai.
You have a son here.
He can come visit.
So I'm supposed to run away with a man
who is ready to abandon his child?
I'm falling for you.
Sorry I'm late.
The traffic in town was awful.
- He wants to talk to you.
- Who?
The Minister of Defense.
Why?
- What does he want?
- He didn't say.
Where is he?
He's waiting outside the mosque construction site.
- I'll be right there.
- Okay.
Stay here, Asfour.
Good day.
How can I help you?
Your tie is crooked.
Even the medals are wrong.
They forgot the medal
for the liberation of Kuwait.
Tell me.
Have you spoken to your friend Rula?
No, why?
There was a misunderstanding
between us
and she has disappeared.
I wanted to apologize to her.
Can you help me?
Absolutely.
And tell her
that I'm sorry
and that I miss her.
The Eagles of the Republic
are looking forward to your speech.
Does he know you're sleeping with his wife?
We need your help, George.
You have to convince Rula to
meet the Minister of Defense again.
But this time
she has to wear a wire.
Understood?
Do you understand?
This is a good opportunity for you
to sign the contract.
Dear Marianne, dear Rami.
I have decided
to take my own life.
I hope you can forgive me.
It's my handwriting.
You never know.
God forbid
that something terrible
would happen to you,
like an accident...
If you disappeared without a trace,
your loved ones
wouldn't have to check the hospitals,
police stations or morgues
to find you.
God forbid, of course.
How are you?
Why are you living here?
My friend's place.
I needed to disappear.
He is a monster.
They want you to wear a wire.
How did we end up here?
We say words written for us
and express feelings
that are not ours.
I remember when you told me.
Our job is to let people
forget their pain for a short while.
That's why we have to suffer.
George.
Mr. President,
we have received information
that the attack in Sinai
was carried out by the Ansar Al-Islam group
around the 103rd battalion.
They must have had someone on the inside.
Wait here.
What is it?
What is it?
- Why do you look so nervous?
- What?
What is this?
Please, I beg you...
Who sent you?
No one sent me.
Leave me alone, please!
You there!
Come here.
What is this about?
Get in.
...will be 38 degrees in the afternoon.
Ladies and gentlemen,
this is a special day.
Today is October 6th.
The military academy will hold
its graduation ceremony
which President Al-Sisi
will attend...
Mr. President,
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
Mr. President...
YOUR RESERVATION AT RAMSES HILTON
They are waiting for you at the podium.
George!
As soon as the president arrives,
we cheer.
- Sisi!
- Louder!
President, Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi.
Leader of the Republic.
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
Left.
Left.
Left.
From now on,
leadership is handed over
from the graduating classes
to the new ones.
And here come
the flags of the military academy,
carried by the new class.
A tribute to the martyrs!
VICTORY OR MARTYRDOM
Follow me.
And now,
ladies and gentlemen,
we have the honor of welcoming
the great star
George Fahmy!
Before you finish,
you must salute the president.
- Orders from above.
- Okay.
Mr. President,
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,
dear leader,
we are here today
to honor the martyrs
who fell defending our country
on the sixth of October 1973.
Our heroes
who miraculously pushed through
and defeated an army
that was better equipped than ours
and had the backing of a superpower.
Every Egyptian
should be grateful
for our armed forces
and the courage and sacrifices
these men have shown.
It is a great honor for me
to stand before you today
on the anniversary of our historic victory.
Guide us towards the light,
Mr. President.
May your vision for the future
make Egypt
the most powerful country in the world.
May God bless our military,
our police
and the mighty Egyptian people.
Victory...
or martyrdom.
Get over to them. Hurry!
Come on!
Fasten your seatbelt!
Sit down!
- Name and rank?
- Lieutenant Colonel Mahmoud Walid.
- Your parents' names?
- Mohamed and Nouran.
Mohamed and Nouran what?
They have nothing to do with this.
Don't they?
I'm just a soldier.
I haven't done anything!
Where do your parents live?
Please...
You'll feel better
if you drink some water.
Some water, Your Excellency?
Or peanuts?
This way, hurry up.
Yes, it's me.
Keep me informed.
Is the Minister of Defense coming?
No, he is with his troops.
We all know what has happened.
Thank goodness
the president is unharmed.
The Republican Guard has secured
all major government facilities
including the TV building.
We are in a state of emergency.
But we haven't declared it officially.
I will personally inform
Dr. Mansour of the developments.
Any questions?
May I?
Go ahead.
Who in this room was present
at the dinner on September 7th?
The Eagles of the Republic.
What do you call a soldier
who takes his orders from a civilian?
Arrest him.
A traitor.
You may leave.
You got a text message earlier today.
Go see her.
I deleted the text message.
Room 1606.
I know.
Make her talk.
About what?
Let her tell you what she knows.
Don't try to save her.
This is bigger than you.
Here.
Your car is in the parking lot.
Go now.
Egyptians gathered
to celebrate October 6th.
President Al-Sisi attended
the celebration
which took place at the military academy
in the presence of the great movie star
George Fahmy.
Mr. President,
Commander-in-Chief...
who gave a speech in the president's honor
and to pay tribute to
everything he has done for the country
in such a short time.
The October War,
the military miracle,
which remains historic.
It was a turning point
that showed the world
the power and resilience
of Egypt's army.
You knew!
What?
What was going to happen at the parade.
What happened?
We can never meet again.
Leave the country.
Your life is in danger.
You are so dramatic.
We're through.
George?
George!
Good evening.
Have you heard what happened
to your actor friend?
Rula.
Apparently, she fell from a balcony.
I shouldn't have left her alone.
Then maybe she would still be alive.
I met her yesterday...
She said you...
had convinced her
to give me a second chance.
I am so grateful.
I really liked her.
Her eyes,
her hair...
Everything about her was beautiful.
Right?
Do you need anything from me?
This way, ma'am.
Who is this?
How should I know?
You don't know?
Then let's find out.
Don't hurt her.
She has nothing to do with this.
Who do you think I am?
- Do you think I would touch my wife?
- Please.
What are you waiting for?
Wait for me at home.
They are going to interrogate everyone.
They are going to ask you
who asked you
to give a speech in front of the president.
Hegazy.
He asked you to give a speech
in front of the president
and salute him.
As for me,
I wasn't there.
- They won't believe me.
- Oh, yes they will.
You're a great actor, after all.
You can make them believe
anything.
Especially if you want to protect
someone you love.
What is it?
They've taken my boy.
They've taken Rami, George.
They've taken my son.
They took him.
They took him with them!
Get him back. It's your fault!
It's your fault!
The Minister of Defense's wife,
did she know anything?
She hates him.
That's not what I asked.
She knew nothing.
They found your agent dead.
It looks like he was tortured.
- Was it your own idea to give the speech?
- No.
General Hegazy asked me to do it.
I couldn't refuse.
But I didn't know...
I didn't know anything else.
I thought it was just a speech.
I didn't know about their plot
against the president.
Who are "they"?
Show me mercy. Please.
Who?
I beg you.
They have my son.
Who?
The Minister of Defense wants
me to say that...
That it was Hegazy
who asked me to give the speech.
That's the truth.
You have to believe me.
I didn't know anything else.
I love my country...
...and I love our president.
You're lying.
We know you hate us.
We have what we need.
Take him in.
We want to...
...thank you, George.
You played your role perfectly.
Take his weapon!
Ready!
Fire!
Good.
Mr. President,
I swore allegiance to the constitution.
To swear allegiance to anything else
is to betray
the constitutional oath.
Was there anything else, Mr. President?
No.
To my daughters.
In a film by Tarik Saleh
Lyna Khoudri
Amr Waked
With Zineb Triki
Cherien Dabis
Sherwan Haji,
Ahmed Khairy, Nael
Donia Massoud, Suhaib Nashwan
Production Designer
Roger Rosenberg
Director of Photography
Pierre Am - AFC
Original Music by
Alexandre Desplat
Editor
Theis Schmidt
Costume Designer Virginie Montel
Makeup Artist Saara Risnen
Executive Producer Emil Wiklund
FAD Olivier Jacquet - AFAR
Sound Design Hans Mller
VFX Supervisor Peter Hjorth
Produced by Johan Lindstrm,
Linda Mutawi,
Linus Sthr Torell,
Alexandre Mallet-Guy
EAGLES OF THE REPUBLIC
Ten thousand on Diamond-Fox.
Three thousand on Lighting-Thunder.
The race is starting soon.
Hosam, three thousand on Lighting Thunder.
I'm not taking anymore, the race is starting.
Too late, the race has started!
Come on, faster!
Thanks!
Incredible.
Fantastic.
Are you sure? It shouldn't look silly.
It's like a scene
in an Antonioni film.
- Right then.
- Come on!
We'll take Rula's close-up.
George?
Your son has called three times.
Text him. Say I'm in a meeting.
A long, boring meeting.
And that I miss him.
- It's his birthday today.
- Damn it.
Buy...
Buy a watch for him.
A Breitling Navitimer.
PHARAOH OF THE SILVER SCREEN GEORGE FAHMY
RULA HADDAD
HAPPY BIRTHDAY RAMI
Look at that!
Isn't it incredible? Art made of milk.
Open it.
Breitling Navitimer.
Made for the British
when they occupied Iraq
after the First World War.
This one belonged to Saddam.
Thanks, Dad.
She's never late.
Young love, beautiful!
Is that why your girlfriend
is my age?
Who said that?
Your mom, right?
It was on the internet.
Don't believe everything you read.
Hi.
Hi!
How are you?
This is Mai,
who I told you about.
You smell good.
Cut it out.
- I don't wear perfume.
- Sit down.
What do you want to drink?
A Stella.
- Do you like beer?
- Yes.
Then I like you.
- How are you?
- Good. Happy birthday.
Thanks. What's this?
- Two Stellas. For me and her.
- One for me too.
I don't want to spoil anything
but it's really good.
- You've read it?
- Yes.
WHITE TEETH
ZADIE SMITH
I'll read it.
How did you meet?
- You know Khaled.
- Khaled?
When we went jet skiing.
He's Mai's cousin.
And Mai loves Pink Floyd.
- Dad introduced me to them.
- You have good taste.
- What did you do yesterday?
- Watched a movie.
That man over there is making me uncomfortable.
- Tell him to leave.
- Absolutely.
It's called "Beau Travail".
A French film.
Directed by Claire Denis.
She is incredible...
Truly.
The imagery, the music...
I'll have to see it then.
Congratulations.
If you're just going to sit on your phone
we can go home.
George! Darling!
Fawzy.
Yasser Islam.
George Fahmy.
Do you know each other?
Yes. A legend.
You made me want to become an actor.
Madame Suzanne.
George Fahmy.
A pleasure.
How beautiful you are.
Are you an actor like your dad?
No, he isn't my dad.
We're just friends.
Yes, I'm an actor.
Fantastic.
Who is she?
Don't ask.
Married to a higher-up.
How high up?
By the way, George...
We are a group of artists
who have created a petition
against the traitors
who are trying to smear
the army and the president.
Would you like to join?
Who dares to criticize the president?
And why?
The economy is booming.
No power outages.
Prices are reasonable.
Everything is absolutely wonderful
and fantastic.
We must protect our country.
The enemy is everywhere.
Then it's best we hide at home.
I see no contradiction
between being an artist
and a patriot at the same time.
Sure,
you're right.
Excuse me... your name is?
It doesn't matter.
You'll forget it anyway.
Suzanne.
You sound like my Dad.
Huh?
What do you mean?
Your agent was going to help me get
a screen test for the new series.
He doesn't like me.
He doesn't like anyone.
Everyone thinks I'm with you
for the sake of my career.
President Al-Sisi
is signing a new law
that limits fuel subsidies
to reduce inflation...
Madame Rula is here,
should I tell her you're sleeping?
No, show her in.
85% of Egyptians
are in favor of the proposal.
Have a seat!
What is it?
They came to my house.
Who did?
They want me to do
a TV interview about you.
Why?
I'm supposed to say you hate Islam.
That you have insulted the Prophet
and a bunch of other bullshit.
And that I refuse
to work with you.
What are you afraid of?
Don't worry.
They can't do anything.
People love you.
You're Rula Haddad.
They can get to anyone.
Even you.
It's cool, whatever you decide.
I understand.
- Do you want a ride home?
- My driver is outside.
What is this?
They aren't even married.
We always follow our morals, our faith
and our customs.
What faith is that?
According to our faith,
as it was revealed to the Prophet,
everything you do is a sin.
Did you know that Ibn al-Haytham
lived in Egypt
when he wrote
his treatise on optics
in the 11th century?
He played crazy
to avoid reprisals
from the state.
He was the foremost scientist
of his time.
Back then, we were the foremost in the world.
What are we today?
We are drowning in immoral
Turkish TV series.
"Pharaoh of the Silver Screen".
You have seduced the whole country.
It seems as if
the law of gravity doesn't apply to you.
You and your degenerate friends
have dragged our nation into the dirt.
That ends now.
It stops here.
What does that mean?
We have to reshoot the ending.
Are you serious?
WITH EGYPT TOWARDS A BRIGHT FUTURE
ABDEL FATTAH AL-SISI
EGYPT NATIONAL STUDIO
- Good morning.
- Good morning.
Just drive on through.
- What is this?
- Gaby gave the order to move it.
My trailer has stood here for 15 years.
It's in my contract, damn it!
Have you called Fawzy?
Call Fawzy.
- They moved George's trailer.
- Give it here.
Hello?
I've been replaced!
Yes.
With Yasser Islam.
- Is he in there?
- Wait, he's busy!
How can you replace George?
The Pharaoh of the Silver Screen!
Named best actor
for "The Impossible Choice".
Played the lead role
in "The First Egyptian in Space",
the most profitable film that year!
You've replaced him
with Yasser Islam?
Who made a career taking
the roles George turned down.
Have you lost it!
It's senseless!
Calm down.
I know what a big star he is.
Keep singing!
George, they are after you.
They claim you're for democracy
and human rights.
For democracy?
Huh? What rights? For whom?
Who said that?
Tell them
that I am still a Trotskyist.
A Trotskyist? God, no!
Say he's a patriot,
that he loves his country.
And above all, Gaby,
he is a capitalist.
And you're going to pay him.
I don't understand.
Why are you still driving around
in a clunker?
Don't call her that.
She'll be offended.
She's my first love.
A Bugatti? Range Rover?
People will think I'm a bad agent.
Nothing compares to my Jaguar.
Do you have time for a drink at Coco's?
Someone up there is after you,
George.
- The military has an offer.
- Over my dead body.
They might be behind this.
No.
I don't care.
I don't work for the regime.
Everything they touch rots and dies.
They want you to play
"number one".
"The Mexican"?
It's his idea. He's a fan.
He's the worst thing that's happened to the country
since the war in 1967.
He saved the country.
We are nothing alike.
I am 1.86m.
I could play Abdel Nasser,
he was 1.83m.
Even Sadat, he was 1.79m.
That works.
With a little imagination, maybe
Mubarak, he was 1.70m.
But this little man is 1.66m!
- George.
- What?
No one turns them down.
Not even you.
To me, art is sacred.
I never compromise on my principles.
Principles are worse than AIDS.
The film is about a man
who becomes a leader.
It takes place before the coup.
The popular revolution, I mean.
That sounds like shit!
Call Donya.
She thinks you hate her.
Listen... Donya is a whore.
Excuse me?
Okay, for your sake then.
What do you want me to say?
That she has a future in film.
Goodbye.
Do you want me to invite him up
when I'm gone?
Have you gone crazy, darling?
Do you think I'm an idiot?
You've always stolen everything from me.
But to sleep with my husband...
I don't have a sister anymore.
I never want to see you again.
What do you think?
Good. It's really good.
But...
try not to think so much
about what you're saying.
Darling, listen.
Words are the clothes thoughts wear.
The feeling is what counts.
Fuck off!
Where are you going?
Where are you going?
Acting opposite the superstar,
Pharaoh of the Silver Screen,
George Fahmy...
She looks so old.
Right?
Wasn't he trying to reunite
that Coptic girl
with her Christian family?
After she converted
to Islam?
Come on, Maha.
I don't like
gossiping about my colleagues.
Doesn't he stand close to Pope Tawadros?
George is our biggest star.
And...
...a great patriot.
He loves Egypt.
We often speak of
our love for Egypt
and our gratitude to the president...
And his wife, Marianne?
They are never seen together anymore.
They never go to events together.
How is she doing?
Why don't you invite her here
and ask?
Okay. I guess I'll have to do that.
- How are you, Sayed?
- Hi.
Are you going to count the stars again?
You know it.
Take care of yourselves.
Be safe.
What's going on?
The road is closed.
How much?
Nothing.
What do you want?
Is this your son?
He goes to the American University
downtown, right?
A lot of car accidents in that area.
Tell him to be careful.
Are you threatening me?
Who do you work for?
Good evening, George.
Damn it!
- Why isn't the key working?
- I changed the locks.
Call first.
I could have had someone here.
I want to see my son.
He's sleeping. It's the middle of the night!
I'm sleeping on the couch.
What is it this time?
Someone threatened me.
- Who?
- It doesn't matter.
So you're scared
and you want us to comfort you?
I got worried about my son.
Whose daughter or wife
have you slept with this time?
Aren't you a bit too old for that?
It's the right decision.
They threatened my son, Fawzy.
Don't worry.
No one can hurt you now.
George Fahmy!
What an honor.
Ahmed Abu Talaat.
CEO of Unlimited Media Group.
Welcome.
Thank you.
Gentlemen, give him some room.
George.
As CEO of Unlimited Media Group
it's an honor for all of us
to get to work with such a legend.
Thank you.
Would you like to say a few words?
George Fahmy.
Thank you.
It is a great honor for me...
...to be a part of this journey.
Thank you.
THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE
Come, I'll introduce you
to Dr. Mansour.
- Who?
- Dr. Mansour.
Follow me.
- A pleasure.
- Same to you.
- I'm glad you're on board.
- Thank you.
I hope we can achieve
something great together.
Me too.
Dr. Mansour
is from the President's office.
He will oversee our work.
Nice.
Shall we go?
- Goodbye.
- Goodbye.
What do you think?
I like that it takes place
before the revolution.
- Can I smoke here?
- Relax, Tarek.
The film isn't a tribute to the army.
I asked for you as director.
I want your honest opinion.
Are changes needed?
Do you believe
that this was how it went down?
How should I put it?
Can we talk a bit?
Do you understand what they want us to do?
Do you understand the situation?
We are going to paint the great pharaoh
while he is still alive.
While he sits on the throne.
What do you think they will do?
What happens if we make
his nose too big?
I don't care about his nose.
All I want to know
is if you can turn this shit
into something meaningful.
Of course not.
Why did you agree to it, then?
George! Do you really wonder about that?
For the same reason you did.
George Fahmy doesn't make bad movies.
I need you, Tarek.
I need you.
You have integrity.
Come on.
George, you can't drive your car in.
What am I supposed to do then? Walk?
No, the studio has a golf cart.
My God...
Can I have my script?
PHARAOH OF THE SILVER SCREEN
PLAYS PRESIDENT AL-SISI
Good morning.
- I'm not done yet.
- Okay...
Just a short moment.
Take a picture, Medo.
Wait until I'm finished.
I'll look exactly like him
- Right?
- Like God created him.
I have to take a picture of you.
Take the picture and send it.
You look fantastic.
Who is that?
Medo, my new assistant.
Is your name "Me Too"?
Almost. Medo.
Come on! He's in his senior year
at university.
He's helping me.
Let me see.
- Hair.
- Huh?
- They want him to have hair.
- Huh?
He's been bald since preschool.
Get the producer.
Mahmoud, take off the bald cap.
- Why?
- They want him to have your hair.
Listen now.
They want George Fahmy,
not the president.
Don't look at me like that.
I didn't mean it that way.
It will be better.
You won't have to sit in makeup
for hours.
Okay. Take it off.
The belly and the double chin too.
No!
- Listen to me.
- Hell no!
You'll look better.
Why are you getting upset?
- I want to be Al-Sisi.
- You will be.
You're going to play Al-Sisi.
Then I have to look like him.
You are going to be him.
Sit down.
Please, George.
- It's better for you.
- Better how?
The film isn't about George Fahmy,
but about Al-Sisi.
And you are going to play Al-Sisi.
There's a toilet in your trailer
and another one right outside.
The snacks you asked for
are in your trailer.
- But no mortadella.
- No?
No, apparently it was impossible.
I got you Om Ali pudding.
Gluten-free...
Good morning.
- Hi.
- Stay seated.
What an honor.
I am a huge fan.
You have to see this!
Do an impression of Mubarak.
The situation is critical.
I told President Arafat
that he had no choice.
Do an impression of Al-Sisi.
Please, don't.
If you'll excuse me,
I have something to tell you.
The youth of Egypt...
Right?
Please.
I want to shake your hand.
Today you are appointed
as Minister of Defense
in Tantawi's place.
Do I know
that they will nominate me?
According to the script,
Tantawi knew
and he asked you to accept.
Why is that?
You are his favorite.
and he knows you will
be loyal to him.
He wants to ensure
that the Muslim Brotherhood
doesn't control the army.
Okay.
Hurry up.
Take your places.
Clap.
And... action!
In the name of God, the Most Gracious,
I solemnly swear
to protect the republic,
respect the constitution
and the laws
and defend the interests of the people,
our nation's independence
and the integrity of the country.
Thank you!
Very nice, George.
Why aren't you clapping?
We can do another take,
but this one was good.
- Keep an eye on it.
- Yes, sir.
Take care.
Good evening.
Peace be upon you and may God save you.
Panadol and a...
Panadol and?
Viagra.
Panadol and Viagra?
Just a moment.
Panadol...
...and Viagra.
Fifty pounds.
George Fahmy?
Nah.
Yes, you are George Fahmy.
Dad, look who's here.
The great movie star George Fahmy.
Good evening.
I am a huge fan
and have followed you for a long time.
I download all your movies.
Look. Who is this?
You are outstanding.
You are a superstar, a VIP.
The best!
Thank you.
They aren't for me.
Of course not. Wait.
I can't believe it.
George Fahmy in our pharmacy!
It's incredible.
But why Viagra? It's no good.
It gives you migraines and diarrhea.
The newest drug is called Cialis.
It makes you hard as steel.
Like a pharaoh at home.
No diarrhea or headaches.
And it lasts for hours!
And your wife... or whoever it is...
will be pleased.
You'll be harder than the Sphinx.
There is a cheaper alternative
called Kamagra.
It comes from Thailand.
But it's a bit hit or miss.
Sorry, what am I talking about?
You don't care about the price.
A big star like you.
They're not for me, I said.
I know.
Everyone says that.
No one will believe me
when I say you were here.
- Don't tell anyone.
- Of course not.
Discretion is part of my job.
What an honor! Can we take a selfie?
No, thanks.
Why not?
Can I pay now?
Of course. No problem.
- So Panadol and Viagra.
- Fifty pounds?
- Here.
- Thank you.
Goodbye.
It was an honor!
An honor to meet you!
- Open a bottle of champagne.
- Okay.
What's wrong?
What is it, darling?
Dad died yesterday.
I thought you hated him.
You don't understand.
I also had a really shitty relationship
with my dad.
But after his death
that changed.
And all my anger towards him disappeared.
- Did it?
- Yes.
I mourned his absence
and missed him.
Do you think I
will miss Dad?
Maybe, with time.
You obviously
know nothing about me.
Forgive him?
After the hell
he put me and Mom through?
You think...
it's in women's nature
to forgive.
Is it?
I know it's not that simple.
I love you.
My dad loved your movies.
That's why I wanted to be with you.
To provoke him.
Do you have an erection?
Wait, I can explain.
Does my grieving turn you on?
I can explain.
The Muslim Brotherhood fears only
our almighty God, as you know.
If you follow us
we all stand united.
Mr. President,
I'm sorry, but I can't.
What?
Where is he?
What is it?
Don't they like it?
Yes, it's great.
It's really great.
But...
But... Maybe we can try again.
Say your lines like...
Like you believe in what you're saying.
What are you saying?
If you...
I mean, we can run the scene again,
but take it down a notch.
What the fuck?
- What do you mean?
- Nothing.
- I don't know.
- You don't know?
I'm staying in my trailer
until you know!
George, please...
Let's just do one more take.
If you have something to say,
say it to me.
You're not convincing.
You're overacting.
I am George Fahmy.
Pharaoh of the Silver Screen.
My movies have paid for
all the film studios in the country.
What does that have to do
with what I said?
I'm talking about what I just saw.
You weren't good.
Okay.
Fire me, then.
"Words are the clothes thoughts wear."
Samuel Beckett.
Can I trust you, General?
I am the President-elect.
Mr. President,
I swore allegiance to the constitution.
And to swear allegiance to anything else
is to betray
the constitutional oath.
Anything else, Mr. President?
No.
Thank you!
Fantastic. The best scene
we've filmed so far.
- You shouldn't be afraid of me.
- But you are the president.
No.
In this scene
you are the president.
So act like a president.
Okay, let's go again.
Good job.
- How are things?
- Great!
I ordered your favorite sashimi.
Thanks.
Spit it out.
You're invited to the presentation of
the new capital.
Afterwards, you have been invited,
by the highest officer of the army
Minister of Defense Nasser Al-Ghul,
to his private residence.
You might get a medal.
A medal?
For my lack of integrity?
Listen, my friend.
Early Thursday evening,
a limousine will pick you up.
Mr. George!
Hurry, they've taken Yousri's son.
I haven't seen my son since yesterday.
What's going on?
Yousri's son wrote something online.
They took him last night.
I just want to know where he is.
He is disturbing the peace.
He's my neighbor.
He's never done anything.
You must have made a mistake.
We're just doing our job.
- I know. Let me speak to him.
- Alright then.
What is it, Yousri?
They've arrested my son, George.
They took him!
We'll go upstairs.
We'll sort it out.
- How?
- Nothing gets sorted out down here.
- They arrested him!
- I understand, but...
I don't know where he is!
We'll sort it out. Go upstairs now.
- My God...
- Go upstairs!
The crescents are covered
with stainless steel,
coated with PVD.
Which gives the golden color you see.
The army's engineering department
was keen to use
Egyptian marble for the mosque
and insisted that the workforce
be 100 percent Egyptian.
Mr. George!
We are proud of how you
portray the man
that we all admire.
Let me introduce you.
General Montaser Hegazy, Chief of Staff.
I congratulate you on behalf of the army.
I admire your patriotic efforts
in the service of the country.
I head the President's
re-election committee.
- Would you like to join?
- It would be an honor.
The General's wife.
- A pleasure.
- Good evening.
The Minister of the Interior. You know each other.
A pleasure to see you again.
George.
We are all your fans.
Thank you.
His Excellency's wife.
Nice to meet you.
I've seen all your movies.
I feel honored. Thank you.
George, my wife.
- Nice to meet you.
- Same to you.
The Minister of Defense and his wife.
Thank you for the invitation.
We are glad you are here.
My wife.
George Fahmy.
An honor.
- Here you go.
- Thank you.
Where is your wife?
Unfortunately, we are separated.
Doesn't the Coptic church forbid
divorce?
We aren't divorced,
but we don't live together.
Leave him be, my love.
Don't start preaching ethics now.
Get me some pita bread.
George is a living legend.
I am no legend.
Save that for the dead.
Did you know that Shakespeare
was of Arab descent?
His real name is Sheikh Zoubir.
That's why he disliked Jews.
He was born in Stratford.
Who, madame?
William Shakespeare.
I read in a book
that he was born in Baghdad.
My wife is always right.
Of course.
Don't belittle me, darling.
I would never dare.
I'm serious.
My wife actually has
a master's degree in history from the Sorbonne.
She lived in France for many years.
Is it possible, Madame Suzanne,
that the British claim
Shakespeare
just as they do
with mathematics, astronomy
and the Rosetta Stone?
He was baptized in Holy Trinity Church
in 1564.
During the 19th century,
Arab intellectuals came up
with the story of Sheikh Zoubir.
A century later, Gaddafi
revived
the story
when he was high on hash.
Do you know why?
I think,
that because Arab men
have been totally castrated
they buy into
any claim that says Arabs
invented something of value.
Thank you for your inspiring words,
my dear.
When he went to university
he was good at football
but useless at his studies.
I need to make an important call.
It's an honor for me
to work with you.
- Excuse me.
- Don't mention it.
Don't worry.
Here you are among friends.
We are the shield that protects the country.
We are the Eagles of the Republic.
If there's anything you need,
just say the word.
Tell me,
what can I do for you?
Thank you, nothing, really.
I have everything I need, thanks.
Not material things.
We can change anything.
There is a person
I would like to help.
If it is possible.
It is.
My neighbor's son has been arrested.
They are good people.
It's probably a mistake.
What is his name?
Adel Yousri Ramzy.
Sometimes the security services make mistakes.
Colonel Ibrahim? Good evening.
A young man has been arrested by mistake.
What did you say his name was?
Adel Yousri Ramzy.
Student?
Yes, medical school at Ain Al-Shams.
Medical school at Ain Al-Shams.
Thank you.
He never listens to me.
- How are you?
- Good.
The President
will attend
the October 6th ceremonies.
I have a great idea.
How about giving the opening speech?
I don't know...
What is it you don't know?
Are you too "big" for us?
Nah. You misunderstand me.
It would be an honor, of course.
It has to be a surprise.
You know,
people around him talk too much.
The country is in a state of dissolution.
If everything goes to hell,
what do we do
when we have eliminated the Brotherhood?
God damn it!
Show some resistance, talk back!
You treat me like I'm God!
- George.
- Don't you get it?
I'm not president yet.
I'm scared.
I don't know who I can trust.
There's no oxygen at the top.
If you're afraid, you force me
to act, not react.
- George!
- What do you want?
- Calm down.
- No!
This is bullshit!
Push this scene
up against the wall
and start humping it!
You say your lines
like they're going to bite you.
You should be thinking:
he's crazy, he's wrong.
The country is in a state of dissolution.
What do we do
when we have eliminated the Brotherhood?
That's it! Come on, here we go.
That's enough.
How much time do we have?
Ten minutes.
Come on, Asfour.
Did you get my Om Ali pudding?
Do you have a moment?
Wait.
We need to talk.
Alone.
It's okay, go ahead.
I advise you
to be very careful
when you speak about the president.
Am I interfering with your work?
This is my work.
Don't make assumptions about the president.
You don't know him.
You know nothing about him.
If I'm going to create a believable character
I need to use my imagination.
Keep your imagination to yourself.
Acting is about sharing.
It's expressive.
- As a producer...
- Are you a producer?
Here is your contract.
Sign it when you have time.
All copies.
I don't sign contracts.
I keep my promises.
It's a different kind of production,
with insurance...
Insurance?
Are we in Finland, or what?
Mr. George, welcome home.
Thank you, George.
Thank you.
- I owe you my life.
- Oh, come on.
Your son is innocent.
It was a mistake.
Thank you, Uncle George.
Thank you so much.
Welcome home, kid.
- Thank you.
- Good night.
Don't lie down.
We're going to the P-Lounge.
Please, can't you go by yourself?
I want to go with you.
Thank you for your generous donations,
so that we can spread awareness
about breast cancer.
We miss you.
Why don't you come
to mass anymore?
I've been so busy.
Too busy for God?
We heard you were having
problems at home.
Thank you, Father, it's been resolved.
This is... my son's friend.
I hope you will come on Sunday,
with your wife.
We will come.
- Good evening, George.
- Good evening.
Do you never stop playing your roles?
Do you want something from the bar?
Champagne.
A glass of mango juice.
Madame Afaf.
Mr. George.
So even the censors
appreciate free drinks?
Nothing is free.
You are drinking in public.
You should respect the role
you are playing.
Our president is a devout Muslim.
Hi, George!
Dance with us.
A little later.
What a pleasant coincidence.
What do you mean?
We met at a dinner
a few days ago, madame.
Ah, the actor...
No wonder you're here.
Why, because the evening is about...
...breasts?
Breast cancer, George.
So you know my name, madame?
This area is cordoned off.
Are you...
...a cordoned-off area?
A minefield.
Interesting...
Because I'm a minesweeper.
Sir?
- What?
- Excuse me.
Rula Haddad is here.
She asked me to wake you.
Are you alone?
She's sleeping.
I have no one else...
I haven't paid my rent.
No one is answering my calls.
Not even my agent.
Why? What happened?
What do they say you've done?
I don't know.
I might be on their list.
Can you find out?
You're working with them now.
I need to work, George.
Wait here.
What is this?
60,000. Just a little help.
I can't accept that.
It's fine.
I would have gambled it away anyway.
Take it.
Hi, good morning!
Let's run it again.
What an honor!
Hi.
Hi.
This is the scene
with the visit to Tanta,
when he was Minister of Defense.
Is this supposed to be Tanta?
Yes, that's right.
But...
It looks better on camera.
I want to thank you.
Thank you for helping
my neighbor's son.
Of course we'll help you.
This is a bit embarrassing, but...
I could use some advice.
What is it about?
I have a friend,
a talented actress.
She seems to have been blacklisted.
- What's her name?
- Rula Haddad.
Do you have her number?
Of course.
She is a close friend.
How close?
No, not like that.
Don't worry.
I will personally take care of it.
Thank you.
Come on, let's retake the scene.
Let's do it, Tarek.
I understand.
You want a bad boy
who also prays to God.
What is this?
I'll call you back.
Where are you going?
To the opening
of that stupid festival.
You didn't tell me that.
I have nothing to wear.
I'm taking my son.
What?
Yes, he wants a picture of us
on the red carpet.
Since when are you trying to be father of the year?
Please, no drama.
It's perfect!
How are you?
Come on.
Sorry, VIPs only.
Dad!
George!
So you're playing the president?
That's fantastic.
Come on, move over.
I actually thought they were going to call me.
- Maybe they didn't have your number.
- Touch!
Nice.
Shall we take a picture together?
- George!
- He's my dad!
Dad!
George, we love you, George!
Here, look here!
Where is Rami?
Have you seen my son?
Has anyone seen George's son?
It's George Fahmy's son!
- Take it easy.
- What idiots!
He's here now, it's okay.
Don't make a scene.
It's fine.
Get something to drink.
Get something to drink.
The night is young.
- How's it going with your girlfriend?
- Good, I think.
Shall we get some food?
What about the photo on the red carpet?
It's too crowded.
CHECK IN NOW, RAMSES HILTON HOTEL
NAME: MR. SHAKESPEARE
RESERVATION NAME: MR. SHAKESPEARE
- Good evening.
- Good evening.
I have a reservation
under "Shakespeare".
You work as a teacher.
Did you google me?
You went to Saint Clare's
in Heliopolis.
And you were second best in your class.
No!
I was top of my class.
But I didn't suck up to the teachers.
The suck-ups always gave presents.
Do you want to do a commercial
for bathroom tiles?
It's good money
for a day's work
plus a bathroom renovation.
I agreed to this,
not just anything.
I'm transferring the money to Dubai
to pay off the apartment.
Wow!
It looks like Cecil B. DeMille's
"The Ten Commandments".
They're spending money like water.
Listen.
This is the day Morsi was overthrown.
You are welcomed as the liberator of the people.
Imagine being Abdel Nasser in 1956.
Sure.
Three, two, one...
Action!
The army and the people are one hand!
Freedom! Freedom!
Sisi, Sisi, you are our leader!
Tell me...
Yasser Islam?
Is there something between him
and the General's wife?
Absolutely not.
How can you be so sure?
He's gay.
Stop fantasizing.
I swear. He sucked me off.
It was so-so,
but he's no amateur.
Congratulations.
Why do you ask?
We can continue.
Relax.
THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE
I ran into the bishop the other day.
We have to go to mass together.
Tell him I have COVID.
Sure.
Get dressed.
We're going to church.
Come on.
What is it?
She just wants to be friends.
She doesn't have those feelings for me.
You're a nice guy.
Girls don't like nice guys.
Is that why you treat Mom
like shit?
What?
Who are you?
How can you ask your dad that?
Who are you?
You surround yourself with people you despise.
Aren't you being a bit hard on me now?
Do you realize you've sold out?
Maybe.
But I did it for your sake.
For you, Rami.
Do you remember anything about us?
Yes.
I remember when I held you
for the first time.
You were a little baby.
And suddenly I felt
my heart grow,
as if my life had found meaning.
That's a line from your movie...
"The Impossible Choice".
Rami...
Was your son happy with the pictures
from the red carpet?
Yes, very happy.
Let me see the pictures.
He's not in any of the pictures.
You were with the General's wife.
You fucking liar. You asshole!
I'm going to tell everyone
you're old
and that you belong to the limp dick club.
Can't we just leave?
I have an apartment in Dubai.
You have a son here.
He can come visit.
So I'm supposed to run away with a man
who is ready to abandon his child?
I'm falling for you.
Sorry I'm late.
The traffic in town was awful.
- He wants to talk to you.
- Who?
The Minister of Defense.
Why?
- What does he want?
- He didn't say.
Where is he?
He's waiting outside the mosque construction site.
- I'll be right there.
- Okay.
Stay here, Asfour.
Good day.
How can I help you?
Your tie is crooked.
Even the medals are wrong.
They forgot the medal
for the liberation of Kuwait.
Tell me.
Have you spoken to your friend Rula?
No, why?
There was a misunderstanding
between us
and she has disappeared.
I wanted to apologize to her.
Can you help me?
Absolutely.
And tell her
that I'm sorry
and that I miss her.
The Eagles of the Republic
are looking forward to your speech.
Does he know you're sleeping with his wife?
We need your help, George.
You have to convince Rula to
meet the Minister of Defense again.
But this time
she has to wear a wire.
Understood?
Do you understand?
This is a good opportunity for you
to sign the contract.
Dear Marianne, dear Rami.
I have decided
to take my own life.
I hope you can forgive me.
It's my handwriting.
You never know.
God forbid
that something terrible
would happen to you,
like an accident...
If you disappeared without a trace,
your loved ones
wouldn't have to check the hospitals,
police stations or morgues
to find you.
God forbid, of course.
How are you?
Why are you living here?
My friend's place.
I needed to disappear.
He is a monster.
They want you to wear a wire.
How did we end up here?
We say words written for us
and express feelings
that are not ours.
I remember when you told me.
Our job is to let people
forget their pain for a short while.
That's why we have to suffer.
George.
Mr. President,
we have received information
that the attack in Sinai
was carried out by the Ansar Al-Islam group
around the 103rd battalion.
They must have had someone on the inside.
Wait here.
What is it?
What is it?
- Why do you look so nervous?
- What?
What is this?
Please, I beg you...
Who sent you?
No one sent me.
Leave me alone, please!
You there!
Come here.
What is this about?
Get in.
...will be 38 degrees in the afternoon.
Ladies and gentlemen,
this is a special day.
Today is October 6th.
The military academy will hold
its graduation ceremony
which President Al-Sisi
will attend...
Mr. President,
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
Mr. President...
YOUR RESERVATION AT RAMSES HILTON
They are waiting for you at the podium.
George!
As soon as the president arrives,
we cheer.
- Sisi!
- Louder!
President, Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi.
Leader of the Republic.
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
Left.
Left.
Left.
From now on,
leadership is handed over
from the graduating classes
to the new ones.
And here come
the flags of the military academy,
carried by the new class.
A tribute to the martyrs!
VICTORY OR MARTYRDOM
Follow me.
And now,
ladies and gentlemen,
we have the honor of welcoming
the great star
George Fahmy!
Before you finish,
you must salute the president.
- Orders from above.
- Okay.
Mr. President,
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,
dear leader,
we are here today
to honor the martyrs
who fell defending our country
on the sixth of October 1973.
Our heroes
who miraculously pushed through
and defeated an army
that was better equipped than ours
and had the backing of a superpower.
Every Egyptian
should be grateful
for our armed forces
and the courage and sacrifices
these men have shown.
It is a great honor for me
to stand before you today
on the anniversary of our historic victory.
Guide us towards the light,
Mr. President.
May your vision for the future
make Egypt
the most powerful country in the world.
May God bless our military,
our police
and the mighty Egyptian people.
Victory...
or martyrdom.
Get over to them. Hurry!
Come on!
Fasten your seatbelt!
Sit down!
- Name and rank?
- Lieutenant Colonel Mahmoud Walid.
- Your parents' names?
- Mohamed and Nouran.
Mohamed and Nouran what?
They have nothing to do with this.
Don't they?
I'm just a soldier.
I haven't done anything!
Where do your parents live?
Please...
You'll feel better
if you drink some water.
Some water, Your Excellency?
Or peanuts?
This way, hurry up.
Yes, it's me.
Keep me informed.
Is the Minister of Defense coming?
No, he is with his troops.
We all know what has happened.
Thank goodness
the president is unharmed.
The Republican Guard has secured
all major government facilities
including the TV building.
We are in a state of emergency.
But we haven't declared it officially.
I will personally inform
Dr. Mansour of the developments.
Any questions?
May I?
Go ahead.
Who in this room was present
at the dinner on September 7th?
The Eagles of the Republic.
What do you call a soldier
who takes his orders from a civilian?
Arrest him.
A traitor.
You may leave.
You got a text message earlier today.
Go see her.
I deleted the text message.
Room 1606.
I know.
Make her talk.
About what?
Let her tell you what she knows.
Don't try to save her.
This is bigger than you.
Here.
Your car is in the parking lot.
Go now.
Egyptians gathered
to celebrate October 6th.
President Al-Sisi attended
the celebration
which took place at the military academy
in the presence of the great movie star
George Fahmy.
Mr. President,
Commander-in-Chief...
who gave a speech in the president's honor
and to pay tribute to
everything he has done for the country
in such a short time.
The October War,
the military miracle,
which remains historic.
It was a turning point
that showed the world
the power and resilience
of Egypt's army.
You knew!
What?
What was going to happen at the parade.
What happened?
We can never meet again.
Leave the country.
Your life is in danger.
You are so dramatic.
We're through.
George?
George!
Good evening.
Have you heard what happened
to your actor friend?
Rula.
Apparently, she fell from a balcony.
I shouldn't have left her alone.
Then maybe she would still be alive.
I met her yesterday...
She said you...
had convinced her
to give me a second chance.
I am so grateful.
I really liked her.
Her eyes,
her hair...
Everything about her was beautiful.
Right?
Do you need anything from me?
This way, ma'am.
Who is this?
How should I know?
You don't know?
Then let's find out.
Don't hurt her.
She has nothing to do with this.
Who do you think I am?
- Do you think I would touch my wife?
- Please.
What are you waiting for?
Wait for me at home.
They are going to interrogate everyone.
They are going to ask you
who asked you
to give a speech in front of the president.
Hegazy.
He asked you to give a speech
in front of the president
and salute him.
As for me,
I wasn't there.
- They won't believe me.
- Oh, yes they will.
You're a great actor, after all.
You can make them believe
anything.
Especially if you want to protect
someone you love.
What is it?
They've taken my boy.
They've taken Rami, George.
They've taken my son.
They took him.
They took him with them!
Get him back. It's your fault!
It's your fault!
The Minister of Defense's wife,
did she know anything?
She hates him.
That's not what I asked.
She knew nothing.
They found your agent dead.
It looks like he was tortured.
- Was it your own idea to give the speech?
- No.
General Hegazy asked me to do it.
I couldn't refuse.
But I didn't know...
I didn't know anything else.
I thought it was just a speech.
I didn't know about their plot
against the president.
Who are "they"?
Show me mercy. Please.
Who?
I beg you.
They have my son.
Who?
The Minister of Defense wants
me to say that...
That it was Hegazy
who asked me to give the speech.
That's the truth.
You have to believe me.
I didn't know anything else.
I love my country...
...and I love our president.
You're lying.
We know you hate us.
We have what we need.
Take him in.
We want to...
...thank you, George.
You played your role perfectly.
Take his weapon!
Ready!
Fire!
Good.
Mr. President,
I swore allegiance to the constitution.
To swear allegiance to anything else
is to betray
the constitutional oath.
Was there anything else, Mr. President?
No.
To my daughters.