Watch Alexandria Again and Forever

Alexandria Again and Forever is a 1989 Egyptian film directed by the legendary Youssef Chahine. The film features an ensemble cast including Youssra, Hussein Fahmy, Hassan Hosny, and Hoda Sultan. It tells the story of a group of cinephiles living in Alexandria in the 1940s and 1950s and their struggles with love and politics. The film opens with a young woman named Amal (Youssra) returning to Alexandria after spending several years studying in Paris. She reunites with her old friends, including Ali (Hussein Fahmy), who is now a successful businessman, and Farid (Hassan Hosny), a journalist and political activist who is involved in anti-government protests.

As Amal reacquaints herself with her old life, she discovers that much has changed. Her friends are no longer the carefree dreamers they once were. They are now grappling with the realities of life in a country ruled by a corrupt and repressive regime. The film explores the tensions between those who want to fight for change and those who have given up hope.

One of the film's central themes is the power of cinema. The characters are all obsessed with movies and use them as a way to escape their problems. They go to the movies, quote from their favorite films, and even act out scenes from movies in their own lives. Chahine uses film within the film to show how cinema can be both a source of inspiration and a tool for propaganda.

The film is set against the backdrop of the Suez Crisis, a pivotal moment in Egyptian history that marked the end of British colonial rule. Chahine uses this historical moment to explore larger issues of national identity and the role of art in society. While some of the characters want to use art to create change, others argue that art should exist for its own sake, and that politics should be left to politicians.

Throughout the film, Chahine employs a range of stylistic techniques to create a dreamlike atmosphere. The film's use of color is particularly striking, with bold, vivid hues that reflect the characters' emotions. The camera often lingers on details like street signs and posters, creating a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era.

At the heart of the film is Youssra's performance as Amal. She brings an intelligence and depth to the character that makes her a compelling presence on screen. Amal is a strong, independent woman who is not afraid to challenge the status quo. Youssra captures her character's wit, charm, and vulnerability, making her a character that the audience can truly root for.

Hussein Fahmy and Hassan Hosny also deliver strong performances as Ali and Farid, respectively. Ali is a complicated character who is torn between his love for Amal and his loyalty to the ruling party. Farid, on the other hand, is a firebrand who is willing to risk everything for a cause he believes in. The two actors create a compelling dynamic that drives the film forward.

In all, Alexandria Again and Forever is a powerful, thought-provoking film that touches on a range of themes, from politics to art to the complexities of human relationships. It is a testament to Chahine's skill as a filmmaker that he is able to weave together so many different threads into a cohesive and engaging narrative. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in Egyptian cinema or in exploring the role of cinema in society.