Kamel Abou Ali presents a film written by Wahid Hamed directed by Yousry Nasrallah Scheherazade, Tell Me a Story Mona Zakki (Hebba) Mahmoud Hemeida (Adham) Sawsan Badr (Amany) Hassan El Raddad (Karim) Hussein El Imam (Ahmad Fadlallah) Rihab Al-Gamal (Safaa) Nesrine Amine (Wafaa) Nahed El-Sebai (Hanaa) Sanaa Akroud (Nahed) Mohamed Ramadane (Said Lightfoot) Fatma (Salma) Costume Designer Dina Nadeem Art Director Mohamed Atteya Music Tamer Karawan Editor Mona Rabi Cinematographer Samir Bahsan Producer Kamel Abou Ali Written by Wahid Hamed Directed by Yousry Nasrallah There are no doors! Why blame the government for every disaster? My dear Hebba. Just tell me one thing... Is it the government that asks people to use wrecked ships and drown while trying to flee the country? These people left the country illegally and secretly... - This by itself is a crime. - Please, Sir... What drives people to misfortune, if not an even greater misfortune? Unemployment, poverty and corruption. The same reasons behind extremism and terrorism. No, no... People have drowned, haven't they? Yes they have. The question is: Why? It's obvious. Hey there! Karim! - Admiring your beauty on TV? - Sorry, I woke you up. I can't sleep when you're not next to me... What woke you up? A bad dream. Oh, God! It must be stress. Right. I know how to make you unwind... We just have enough time to answer some calls... Here is a call from Upper-Egypt. Mrs Hebba. I am just asking your guest for some understanding. He must be aware that we are facing big problems. No one's ambition is to be CEO... All we need are jobs that allow us to live a decent life. I still think that laziness, greed and lack of gratitude are the real motives behind illegal immigration. We have a proverb that says: "A cat never runs from a feast." Hebba... I thought we were talking about people, not about cats. And about hyenas... The President regularly reads your editorials. He appreciates your objectivity. I am greatly honored. My writings reflect my true beliefs. You've heard that we intend to appoint new editors-in-chief. We keep hearing rumors, but... Listen. Timing is very important... And assigning a new editor-in-chief is a very delicate matter. Of course, Hilal Bey. Many factors have to be considered. How are you? Very well, thank you. - And how is your charming wife? - She's fine. What do you think about her talk-show on...? Al Chams (Sun TV). Frankly, it's not a great show. - So you watch the show? - Not regularly. And what do you tell your wife? I sometimes compliment her... You do? But generally, I criticise the negative aspects of her show... The whole show is negative. All of it. Is she really not aware of who is behind that network? It seems I'll have to divorce her. Although I love her. No... We wouldn't want you to do that. Just get her to calm down a bit... If you know what I mean... Daily Newspaper "Our Country" I bring you good tidings... Tell us all about it. I had a vision... I went to the mosque at dawn. Then went back to sleep at home. And the vision is that you are to become editor-in-chief. May God make it true. My dear friend... I have an important call to make. Please sit down, Mr Mustafa. Great tidings... Was it just editor-in-chief or did you see him become general manager too? Please, these are just dreams... Aren't they, Mr Fahim? - Hi, Inji. - He's expecting you. Good morning, Ahmad Bey. Good morning, Karim. Karim, please open the shades to let in some of God's light? By the way... Congratulations. What's the occasion, Ahmad Bey? I heard that you've become editor-in-chief... in a dream. A colleague had a dream... Dreams, Ahmad Bey. But you liked that dream. Didn't you? Superstitions. You believe in that? Nowadays, do dreams come true? May God grant your colleague even sweeter dreams. Son, you should know that I nominate my successor. Are you waiting for something? See you later, sir. Darling. Of course, I care about your career. I'd make you chief-of-state, not just editor-in-chief. No. Anything, but chief of state... Great. Anything... but far away from me. What do you mean? Do you allow anyone to tell you what and what not to write? Constantly. It's very normal. To make concessions? To be careful... The deal was not to interfere with each other's work. Wasn't it? Just a few easy shows. Fun... Light... Sweet... He practically told me this morning. - Who is "he"? - The "Puppetmaster": Hilal Bey. Just for a few weeks. Stop talking about those who drowned, those who burned... who were buried alive... and all those poor people who have nothing to eat... What's more. People are fed up with those stories. Right. Your right. People are fed up with the press... TV, smoked salmon, caviar and all that crappy luxury... You're absolutely right. honey. I'm only asking you to calm down for a few weeks. What's at stake is your future... and mine. My future? Let's talk about yours. The future of a great journalist. With real readers, many readers, who respect your opinion and love you. Better... than... a hundred editors-in-chief... who write garbage... You've got it all wrong. This country works differently... The future here, is for those who hold a government position... Big. Small. It doesn't make a difference. Just look around you... Business-men run after a position for protection. As for success... which is your domain... it is something different... Success is like this lamp... A single click on a button, and... Please... help me. Hebba. You and your husband aren't two jockeys in a horse race. Frankly. Your marriage is more important than your career. Why can't they be equally important? Stop talking like a woman who's never worked her life. I love him. But he's choking me. He hasn't asked you to help him rob a bank, has he? Just a few light, fun shows... Better than to have your entire show banned, isn't it? Try to be less aggressive, until the editors-in-chief are nominated. You've been married seven months. And its your second marriage. A separation between you and Karim, will be bad for your reputation. That's Hebba Younes? Madame, your show is the talk of the town. - Alex! How are you? - In heaven when I see you, Madame. I'm sure she's had... at least five face-jobs. I can't see why people like her? Maybe her brains? Salma! Yes, Monsieur Alex. Take care of Madame Hebba. - Salma? Like Hayek? - Prettier. If you ask me. Tell it to a film-producer. Alex... It's a great honor to serve you, Madame... - You got the new Chanel products? - We've had them since last week. Great. I need a facial-wash and a toner, and all the new lipstick colors. I really admire your work. Yesterday's show was amazing. Keep up the good work. Thank you. I watched your show, yesterday. You liked it? Well... Well, what? I fell asleep watching it. Really? It's just.. Nobody seems to see us. You hear about people, but you never bother to really see them. - What do you want me to see? - I am sorry... I am way out of my league... I asked you a serious question. So, I deserve a serious answer... I am split in two. What do you mean? Someone could have kidnapped you... robbed you... beaten you up... You mussed me. Or raped you! That's not funny... You know what? Some very sweet people live there... - No kidding... I have an idea for a great show. Salma Hayek... The Egyptian. Half her life surrounded by Guerlain, YSL and Dior... And the other half... by garbage, vermin and awful things... You're really keen on provoking a socialist movement? Promoting class-struggle. You want us to get into trouble... You said, stay away from politics... This is pure politics. Just stick to things the government can't be blamed for. Chic gossip... Small talk... SUN TV You owe the success of this show to the politics you want to change. We'll get less ads... We'll get more ads, if we bring new ideas. You're 100% right. You don't understand a thing. Listen up. Women, marriage and celibacy are very political... Discussed zillions of times... We'll pretend that we're unaware of the politics involved. Oppressed women? Sounds good. I told you. And we'll be free to treat it as we choose? OK, Tamer. When someone twists your arm. Don't let him break it. And give me that. Hebba... There's a specialy nasty article on you in your husband's paper. "What Is Hebba Younes' Game?" Isn't that what objectivity is about? It's not really serious... Just be a good sport... Hebba. I'm starving. Is having babies part of our plans? I'm all for it. You seem to be the one hesitating. A pregnant TV presenter? You really want to drop your career? Career and TV? All this seems less important than raising a family. How do you feel about it? Really. What's the rush. A baby is a lot of effort. For the two of us. I don't think it's a good idea. Sometimes I wonder why we're even married... We live in that crazy apartment. It's like a suite in a hotel. You don't like the apartment? I do... Very much. You work all day long. And so do I... We rarely have our meals together... The only thing that gets us together is our bed... What's this crap, Hebba? You really think this is crap? What's the matter? It's Hamdy Mansour... You don't know him? Who cares? I have to say hello. But he totally ignored you. He hasn't seen me. You know how influential that man is? I'll be back in a few minutes. Hello, Mr Mansour. How's our great writer? Were you hiding? I hope I'm not intruding... Karim, this is Ambassador Ahmad Mourad... Can you tell me why you're so biased against Said Mabrouk?? A question of credibility, sir... Really, credibility... Bon appetit. Hamdy Pacha. There's some talk about... my nomination as editor-in-chief. Will you support my nomination? I'd really appreciate it... Don't worry. I'll talk to the President... Hebba... Try to show some understanding. The man is influential. He's close to the President and the Party head. Sure. And he has wings... A great excuse to dump me like a toy. For everyone to watch... I am not a toy... Every time you see me being courteous to someone influential, you make me feel as though I were a cockroach... Roshdy. Listen! I will not allow the program to lose any of its success. And what's more. I don't want researchers to do the work... I'll do the research myself. Sure. I miss journalism. So what? I just want to meet real people again. No, Roshdy. I have a good story. A psychiatrist friend of mine has a patient, perfect for the show. A manic-depressive. He thinks it'll be good for her. No... I'll go alone. Psychiatric Clinic Cairo University... University was beautiful, then... How did you guess which photo I was looking at? We'd been to the Pyramids. The man riding in front of me... It's Mahmoud Saad... the TV presenter. But he's two, no... ten years older than me. This is when I started working in the hotel. Age spares nobody. But you're still gorgeous, Amany. All these pictures, and not a single one with a boyfriend? A lover? Why? If I had a lover, you'd have seen hundreds of pictures with him... I have pictures with friends... But with a lover? None. Not even in my dreams. But you have known so many men. Yet never once fallen in love? Don't you find that strange? I've known love... I've known hate... Great. Would you like to talk about it? Go make us some coffee, instead of sitting around doing nothing. Sure, Amany. Where are you going? It's there. Amany. Let's talk about your love-life. I mean sexual desire. It's normal, isn't it? Look. I'll wear this on your show. Where did you get it from? I bought it. A salt and pepper wig? You'd rather a pistachio wig? It's classy! True. it's classy! So... Are we going to talk about desire? We'll talk... Working in a hotel, wasn't it like being on display? You must've had hundreds of suitors. Let's get one thing straight. Sure. There is a difference between love and lust for a woman. Many men wanted me. But was there one who loved me? It's not easy to find yourself in the arms of a man. And, by the way, I've never been on display. Because I've never been for sale. So you dropped love altogether. On the contrary. I wanted love. But I still haven't found it. What about virginity? What about it? I am a virgin. - Yes. But why? - That's a silly question. You consider virginity to be the honor of a woman? A must to find a husband? No. I have entirely different reasons. I had no sexual life. So I remained a virgin. To cease being a virgin, a woman has to have a man in her life. I see. A prince charming... the perfect man... I don't like your tone. Yes. A prince charming. The perfect man. A man who loves me and whom I love. Why not? We all need warmth. It's human. Someone to hold us. Who fills our hearts... Sure. Warmth is great when it doesn't burn you. Are you OK, Aunt Soraya? Come. - You're not feeling well? - I have a backache... Between the age of 17 and 27, you can't imagine... Men were flocking around me. Just to have a look at me. And the ones I liked. Well, they were scared of me... One wanted to quit his job and spend his time watching over me. One wanted a one-night-stand. And the offers I got from wealthy Arabs... Can you believe it? A guy meets you then asks you to marry him? Between 27 and 37... - Are you OK, Miss Amany? - Yes, doctor. ...they all agreed on one point. Why doesn't she get married? She must have a "defect". What about your sexual life? For all these years? It was in my dreams... And sometimes, I touch myself. Shame on you. At your age. And between 37 and 47? Both the world and I have changed. I was considered a spinster and treated as one... The quality of suitors changed accordingly... And what if a man asked you to marry him now? Too late. What would be the use of marriage now? Sex? Marrying a younger man would be too humiliating. I'd make use of his body, in exchange of my money. He'd probably find me unbearable. And he'd find a younger woman... with my money. He doesn't have to be younger. A decent man. My age or older... We'd sit together on the sofa and watch TV... Any plans for your future? I'll stay here. In the clinic. I get on with all the patients. Each one sings his own tune... and nevertheless, there's no disharmony. End of the Night... Beginning of the Day Good evening. Welcome again to "End of the Night... Beginning of the Day" Tonight, we've decided to stay away from everyday worries... Swim away from the political sea, so full of vicious sharks. We'd like to talk pleasant things... about feelings. About women. Womanhood and beauty... Warmth and love... About bread, about honey... Mothers and daughters... Wives and lovers... And about men... You'll think, I am biased towards women... Right you are. I am. I'd like to welcome my guest, praise her courage... She has vowed to give herself only to the man she loved... Courage? What is this crazy woman saying? Her quest for the perfect man, has led her to become a patient in a psychiatric clinic. I welcome this remarkable woman... It's just like a prick of a needle... I hate needles. And I forgot my medication... Sorry to disturb you, Hilal Bey. I just wanted to make sure that you're watching the show. It's all about love and lovers. No politics, corruption or all that. God bless you, Hilal Bey. Miss Amany, let's get straight to the point. How does love lead a woman to a psychiatric clinic? It's not just love. Everything in this country leads you straight to the madhouse. Damn you, bitch! Please. Let's not talk about "everything"... Let's stick to love. OK? What's your problem with love? I've been targeted since I was 15... I love the expression. But I never allowed myself to be a target... Let's talk about your family and your upbringing... I come from an average Egyptian family. Quite well off. I studied English Literature, and speak Italian and French... You work. No. Not anymore. Not since the clinic. I saw you there. You don't stop working and caring for everyone. Before graduating, I worked as a receptionist in a 5-star hotel. Then I became public relations manager at the same hotel. Your charm, your elegance, education make you someone very special. When I was young, Egypt was still not veiled... What do you mean, Amany? I don't mean the veil you put on women's hair. I mean veiled minds. You think Egypt is veiled? With a thousand veils. Each veil of a different colour. The veil you put on your head is made of cloth... The one that veils your mind is cast in iron. The middle ages used chastity belts... - Amany, you're digressing... - And this belt is coming back... In the Middle Ages, they were used on... Roshdy... Don't cut... Hebba. Think of the vice-squad... Amany. That's not possible... You can't say this on the air... We'll be back in a few minutes. - Shut your mike. - I don't know how to. Didn't you tell me that you voluntarily put on a chastity-belt? No. I was really chaste. Big difference. You told us about your suitors: the pot-bellied, the widower and the miser... I turned them down. It drove my mother nuts... I'd quarrel with her, then we'd make-up... etc. Until that fateful day... It was my day off, and Mother insisted I take her to the club. I hate the club. But something was on her mind. Something I couldn't guess. - You couldn't guess? Come on, Amany. - Anyway. I accepted. Let's change places. I want to get some tan. OK. You'll keep reading all the time? What do you suggest I do? Go for a walk. And get me some magazines. OK. Please. After you, Madam. Thanks a lot. A second helping It's exquisite. I insist you help yourself to more. I am trying to lose some weight. I recognised him. That strange man from the club. Ahmad Bey Fadlallah. Ahmad Fadlallah Darwish... I can still remember his name. Ahmad! We'll be back after the commercials. Wake up! That crazy woman you almost married mentioned you on TV. He was a manager in a ministry. A ministry that is of no use. - We're on the air Amany. No politics... - OK. Your coat... Sanaa, did she mention my name? Name, surname and middle-name: Ahmad Fadlallah Darwish. To avoid my mother's pushiness, I accepted and went out with him. This is libel. I'll send her to hell. She's already in an asylum. I mean the presenter, darling... - We agreed to go out. - Great. Tell me all. - He took me out for dinner. - That's romantic. - But the dinner never came. - Health authorities shut it down? It was over before we finished our fruit juice. Welcome, Sir. We haven't ordered this. It's courtesy of the manager. You come here often? The Minister always invites his guests here. The least bill we pay is about 10 to 15 thousand pounds. So they're not likely to charge us for this dinner. Impossible. That is not at all my style. They have wonderful Australian steak here. The Australians massage their cattle and make them listen to music. We'll each order what we like. Shouldn't we order the same things? When we get married, we won't eat separately. Home has its rules, and dining out has other rules. I like white meats. I'll order fish. I'll have my usual steak. And for the lady, the best and most expensive fish. At your service. We're not in a hurry. We have a lot to talk about. That will be all? Madam Shall I start? Or would you rather start? You or me... it doesn't matter. I'll start, then. I am a frank, straightforward man. Straight like a railroad and honest. And I intend to stay that way. Thank God. When you were mentioned to me as a possible wife, I made inquiries. I discovered you were my twin-soul. That's why I like you. Do you... Do you like me? Of course. Otherwise, I wouldn't have accepted your invitation. I was sure. Your shy eyes have betrayed you! You and I, we were made to get along fine. I am a man who likes things to be crystal-clear. Great. We're here to make things crystal-clear. I like to be frank and honest. So do I. To begin with, I'd like you to put on a veil. You don't say anything? I'd rather hear all you have to say. We'll discuss later. I own an apartment. 160 metres. Fully paid. Fully. You'll pay for the furniture. Fully. Fully. How is that? Listen, darling. Allow me to call you "darling". The rule is sharing everything. Traditionally, an apartment is to be furnished according to the lady's taste and fully paid by her. Very well. I have allowed myself to write down the rules of our partnership. May I read them out to you? Administration of our household is your absolute right. But I decide on the policy to be followed. I'm not sure I understand. I have to be informed of everything. Even if you're buying a pound of potatoes. You mean. I'll do the cooking? I hate servants. And I'd like my wife to do the cooking. Yes. And who will do the cleaning? You and I. You do the sweeping, I do the dusting. You do the laundry, I do the ironing. And so forth... Please proceed. What did you say, darling? A legal term to invite you to continue. Concerning our salaries. We'll have a joint account. I decide the way we spend the money. What about my personal expenses? Fuel and hair-dresser... What hair-dresser? You'll be wearing the veil. As for the fuel, the matter is settled. Settled? How? We live together. You'll sell your car, and I'll sell mine... I'll drive you to work and pick you up on my way home. Suppose... Why suppose the obvious? Suppose you travel with your Minister... What do I do? No problem. You ask one of your girl-friends to give you a lift... and if worse comes to worse, you take a taxi. I'll take a taxi. OK. Why don't I drive the car? Driving can be very hazardous to women. Any other rules? Just a humanitarian issue. - Go ahead. - My mother is alive. - May God grant her health. - She's 72. - She'll be staying with us. - From time to time. She's welcome any time. I really made the right choice. You're so kind. Mr Ahmad. We said we'll have a discussion. Sure. But I feel optimistic. Go ahead. Can I have a light? Darling. You smoke? I'll stop once we agree on everything. Mr Ahmad... You want me to wear the veil, to furnish the apartment... to cook, clean, give you my salary... accept you handling the finances, sell my car and serve your mother. I accept. But I have one question. If I like your answer, I'll really accept. Go ahead, darling. All these terms are for me. What are you offering me? A ring and a dowry, of course. I mean in life. In the couple we'll be forming. I'll be your husband. What does that mean? It means: I'll be your husband. What does that mean? What does being my husband mean? Let's discuss this calmly, darling. Simple question, simple answer. We'll get it over and done with. What does being my husband mean? It means being your husband. You mean you'll sleep with me? You'll fuck me? You're a moron. I swear, you're a moron. You want to veil me, take my money, force your mother's conditions and yours on me... If marriage means sleeping with a man, it's not you I would choose, you idiot! I've never seen anything like this. She's crazy! That's why she's a spinster. You're crazy. Crazy! Amany. Why did you want to talk on this show? You really want to go back to the clinic? Karim! What's the matter? Your show was great. Really? You liked it? Hilal Bey called. He's very happy. He's sure Mrs Mubarak will be also. Really Hebba. It's wonderful. You seem upset. Do I? I am perfectly fine. Where are my slippers? I've been looking for them for an hour. And I was thinking of celebrating your success. - By having sex? - I like to offer the best I have. What have you been drinking? You're missing a great opportunity. - What tells you that the kiosk-lady will know the address? At school they said kiosks are the best source of information. The teacher never mentioned anything about kiosks... Hello madam. - We're looking for Hajja Ayat. - The prison-guard? May God give her health. - Mossaad! - Yes? Show them the way to Hajja Ayat's. Thanks. Welcome. We're sorry to disturb you, Hajja. Hajja is not feeling well. She's resting on the balcony. You're Mrs Safaa? Yes. Actually, it's you we've come to see. Who are you? We work for TV. "End of the Night, Beginning of the Day" And what's TV got to do with me? We would like to share your story with our audience. My story? That's none of anyone's business. What about my story? Safaa! Why are you shouting? It's nothing, dearest. Just visitors. Quite rude visitors. You're a unique case. An ex-convict who has chosen to live with her prison-guard. No. That's not the story you want. You want the one before. The one that got me in jail. We could talk about both. For how much? As much as you ask for. - I'm not interested in money. - What can we do for you? I'll tell you. Maybe you should talk to your boss. The decision is too big for you. May God grant you health, Hajja. I have good news. "End of the Night, Beginning of the Day" will pay for your treatment in the best hospitals. The head of the network has given his approval. God bless them, my child. Good. Let's start with you living with Hajja Ayat, your former prison-guard. We both needed one another... She's a sick woman who needs someone to look after her. And, after my release, I had nowhere to go. I had to find a home. I had no family. All were either scattered all over the world, or dead. How did you become friends? All the inmates loved her... She was already sick, then. After her retirement, she would still visit us. That made me very happy. Nobody else came to see me. How long did you stay in jail? 15 years. What was your crime? Murder. That is strange, Safaa. You seem so gentle. It's hard to imagine you killing. It just happens. May God never let it happen to you. Like a spark that can burn a whole world and destroy a family. Are you ready to talk about this, or...? Or what? Didn't the whole press talk about it then? A dead goat doesn't feel any pain when it is skinned. We're humble people... And humble people... are close to each other. Stick to one another. And choke one another to death. Our lives changed... when our father died. He used to take care of everything. Our mother was dead long before. Closed. Due to owner's death. I am the eldest. Then there is Wafaa. And the youngest is Hanaa. We were teachers at a technical school. Our salary was peanuts. Dad had raised a young apprentice... Said "Lightfoot". He looked lost that day. Wondering what fate awaited him. Speak, my nieces? Look, Uncle. The Sharia says that you inherit part of Father's fortune. All he owned was that store, and the merchandise in it. What do you intend to do with the store? Father's store must remain open. Yes, Uncle. With his name on it. Sure. But who is going to run it? Who will do the buying and selling? You tell us first what you intend to do with your part. We'll sort out things accordingly. I could never break-up your legacy. I give you everything. If you're serious about it. It should be put on paper. That's rude, Wafaa. He offered, didn't he? That's OK, child. I'll put it on paper. And before our meeting ends, I'll sign it. You're orphans. It would be shameful to leave you in need. That is very noble. God will reward you, Uncle. You're the only one we can turn to. Let's talk about the store. We took an unpaid leave, and intend to supervise the shop. What do you know about locks iron and paint? Father spoke about his work, and Said Lightfoot grew up in the shop and knows all about it. We'll supervise him, until we find something better. If he knows the business, I could do the supervision. Get me a pen and paper to sign. Said. Welcome, Mistress Safaa. Come in. You come out. - Yes, Mistress - I'm no "Mistress" I'm "Miss Safaa". From now on, it's "Miss Safaa". Understand? Yes, Miss Safaa. When did Father die? About three months ago. Yes. Three months. And we haven't seen a penny from the store. Are you stealing from us? God forgive you, Miss. I'd never steal from Haj Salem's daughters. I'd rather put my hands in acid, before touching a penny of yours. So where's the money? You should address your question to someone else. To your venerable uncle. He's playing cards right there. He can't possibly be spending all that money in the cafe. Tea, coffee and card-games can't possibly swallow all our income. Said! Speak-out! Is there anything else? God bless you, my nieces. The food is delicious. You're great cooks... Thank you, Uncle. By the way, Yes? The store generates no income? You know. This is all we have. Just a few more tough days. It's been more than 3 months, Uncle. The market's a bit slow these days. How would you know? You're always playing cards with your friends. What are you saying, you idiot? No shouting, please. She is right. I'm here to do the accounts? It's OK to sit in the cafe. Imported cigarettes are no problem. It would still leave us something. But opium is very expensive. It'll eat up income and capital. With three bitches like you, no wonder my brother died young... Go to hell! The store-keys, Uncle. The keys? Here you are. Let me through. I'll show you. - What are we going to do, now? - Said. He's proven to be efficient and loyal. We'll try him under our supervision. Welcome back, Said. Thanks. Can I help? In 5 minutes, everything will be put in order. But if you want the merchandise in the cellar, you'll have to help me. No. Leave the cellar for later. You can do that tonight. When you have time. Now, go. - Is everything paid for? - Part of it is paid for. Did you sign any cheques or IOUs? Your father had a good reputation. So everything's fine. Said Lightfoot, turns out to have weight. Business is flourishing, and he's proven to be loyal. You'd think he's your brother's son. He's the son of a dog. And my brother begot three vipers. Safaa! You little shit! Yes, Uncle. I want my part of the shop. Haven't we settled that long ago? Or is the lack of opium making you delirious? What are you saying, you whore? Calm down. She's your niece! You dare touch me, garbage-slave? I beg you to calm down, out of respect for your brother's memory. All your debts are paid. Here's your share: 1960 Pounds. What about your pay, Said? You haven't mentioned your salary. Of course. You have to get paid. What for? I've been living on your generosity since I was 8 years old. No! Things have changed now. To each his share. Either you get a fixed salary, or you take a percentage. You decide. It doesn't matter. I agree with whatever you decide. I have some work to do at the store. Have a nice evening. - See you later. - Good evening. We'll inform you, once we've reached a decision. Good night. - Hello, my friend. - Welcome, Moallem Assran. Waiter! Get something for Moallem Assran! I'll take care of that. Dokdok! Welcome, Chief! Black coffee for Haj Fathy. For me, a narguileh. Now go! I have a little something for you. Because I want you to concentrate... and have a clear head. I'm overwhelmed, Chief. I'll get straight to the point. I want to marry one of your nieces. - Which one? - Whoever accepts. - You pig! - Get out of here! These stinking bitches dare to humiliate me? I'm so sorry, Chief! Wait here! What do you think we are? You dare throw us to a drug dealer? If you ever set foot in this place again, I'll call the police. We needed a man with us... The three of us we each dreamt of a man in whose shadow we'll live... Sorry? But why did you need a man? To protect us, and to help us. We each dreamt of... I'll interrupt you... A man is not just there to protect and help... Sure! Is there one woman who would disagree with you? Turn down love? We dreamt of a husband. We were even ready to accept the best of the bad. But why did nobody come knocking? Is it because we are plain? Uglier girls have found husbands. Maybe it's because our uncle is a drug-addict. Or was it because of that measly store, divided between us sisters? I don't know. We comforted ourselves, saying it's our fate. Hanaa, Wafaa and I, felt like we were buried alive. We never went out, never saw anyone. So, we decided to spend a day in Alexandria. Said came with us. He was just like us: Buried alive. We invited him. He protected us. I want to share something with you, but I'm afraid you'll go nuts. Go ahead. Talk. Nuts are nice. We are three lonesome women. An easy prey for any wolf. We have to get married. Sorry. Wake-up, Safaa. We'll run around the streets, looking for husbands? When suitors came to propose, father managed to scare them off. And now? Do you see anyone eligible? What do you think of Said? He's just a servant! He was... Now he runs everything... And he's the man who protects us. Right or wrong, Wafaa? He's in deep shit, if he insinuated anything of the sort. His manners are perfect, and he knows his place. We are the ones who need him. Besides, we've known him forever. And nowadays, there are no masters and servants anymore. If he marries one of us, he'll be supporting us all. As a member of our family, he'll act in our best interest. Sweetie, you go ahead. Marry him. It's not we who will choose. It's him. So we stand in line and ask him to choose one of us? No. But if you agree. We'll just treat him as an equal. Listen. As of today, he won't see me again. Nobody's forcing you. Just wait for the star of your dreams, to marry you. He'll get married, sooner or later. We'll know, then, if he'll stay loyal or if our money will go to his wife. That's very surprising. Sorry. We neglected you. You always had your meals with us... at home. When Dad was still alive. Now... it would be inappropriate... And this is to redeem the past? Said. I have something to tell you. We have held a meeting... a summit... And we took a decision... concerning you... From now on, you're one of us... What do you do on your day off? Cafe in the morning, movies in the evening. Do the opposite. How? Cafe in the evening, movies in the morning. And... take me to the cinema with you. Under one condition... Your sisters have to approve. - Who did the cooking, today? - I did. Bless your hands. And who cooked yesterday? - Hanaa. - It was bland. She follows TV recipes. Safaa talked to you? What about? You know Safaa. "Safaa"? No Miss? I mean Miss Safaa. She's only interested in business. How much we owe, how much we made... You're no longer our employee... What do you mean? You're our partner. We own three shares, and you'll own one. All alike. Thanks. But, legally, men have a right to twice as much as a women. Now you show your true face. Who are you to have twice as much? This is how you show gratitude? Miss Wafaa. I was joking. I swear. I am sorry... I want neither a quarter nor a third... I'm content to be amongst you... If you want two parts... it's feasible. What? You will if you use your brains. I'm not very good at that. If you wish, you could add one of our parts to yours... And God knows, whose part it will be... Understand? But will you have me? Or is this another game you're playing? Damn your parents, if you have any! I've had you for the last two years! The basement is our witness. I couldn't reject you, could I? You mean you didn't enjoy it? I enjoyed making you happy. Ungrateful bastard... So pushy. Chill out... - I want a clear answer. - I'll give it to you in the basement. It's not for you to decide. I say when and where we do it. Said. Don't upset me. What a mess! The store is a total mess. I want you to put some order here. This is awful. I don't get a minute's rest. I'll help you. And we'll put all that stuff in the basement. Show me the basement. It must be quite a mess, too. Allow me. Sometimes, when it's quieter, I take a nap here... Isn't it too hot? There's a fan. We could tidy up the cellar on your day off. Please. Miss. I need my day off. I forgot. You're going to the movies. God forgive you, Miss. She's just a child. She can't go on her own. And I did ask for your permission. That's why I trust you. You understand the game? The one you marry will be queen, since you control the store... I'll tell you what I think, but promise to keep it a secret. Said, I told you everything. You should trust my sincerity. Safaa doesn't suit me. She's older then me, and she's not pretty. I've no wish to keep telling myself: "Duty comes... before beauty." And Wafaa? What are her chances? You know your sister. Rough as sand-paper... and hard... One had better stay away from her. You're my princess... This is a special day. What's between you and me, must remain secret. We'll be late for the movies... Let's go to the movies... Hello, beauty. You meant to leave the door open? Oh, sorry. We should store the thinner in the basement. Let me carry this. Are you out of your mind? First, I told myself it wasn't deliberate... Then, in less than a minute you rub against me again? Heaven forbid, Miss. Do I seem capable of doing this? It's crowded here... How dare you? What do you take me for? Miss Safaa, calm down. You want the neighbours to hear? I'll get you a chair... I'd rather work alone... Why can't the two of us do the work? If you just behave... I could accept this... under one condition: Marriage. Yes... nothing but marriage. I'm just a servant... And you... A man is defined by three virtues: Honor... Honesty... and Virility... He, who possesses these virtues, is the master of all men. But won't your sisters be upset? I'll tell them, it's none of their concern. No! Maybe we should wait. What would people say? Aren't you worried, you might fall? No I'm used to ladders. If you accept my proposal, let's recite the Opening Surat. OK. But it'll remain a secret between you and me. No one will know. Not a word to your sisters. Not a word. I thee marry... And I, you... I understand how you feel. And since, in the eyes of God, we are married, and I have your word. I will give myself to you, Said. You can do what you want... I've never been touched before... All three of you? You knew? How could we? Neither of us knew. Each though she was the only one. And you had no doubts? Felt nothing? Ask her: None of you said she wanted him? None of you said she wanted him? I can speak for myself... In the cellar we did crazy things... But outside... He was like a monkey with his tamer holding a stick... Who held the stick? The monkey or the tamer? I am sorry, Safaa... How was the truth unveiled? Safaa! How are you, dearest of all dears? What a lovely complexion! And such rosy cheeks! I missed you, Hajja Alya. I have good news for you. Tell me, Hajja. You know Raafat Abdel Hakim, the electrician's son. He's a police officer. May God give him health. Noble, honest and so helpful. Yes. What about him? Safaa! Where are you going? He's interested in your sister. Wafaa? Yes. He must be blind, not to have noticed you. But God wished it so. He's got a great career as a police-officer. And he has the body of an athlete... You know? He look like that actor your sister is crazy about. Why not? I just don't want him. It's simple. Hanaa. You talk to her. Good opportunities don't come that often... - I think he's a great catch... - He's all yours. Give us an explanation. We are sisters, after all. Talk. We might learn from you. I'm engaged to be married. No kidding! Secretly? That's it. And who, dearest, is your beloved Prince Charming? Said. Said Lightfoot... - He promised to marry you? - Yes. - But Raafat is much better. - He's all yours. - You trust Said? - Yes. - Prove it. - What for? Because he promised to marry me... He promised me too. He was fooling you. We've been together for years. What do you mean "together"? - Did you sleep with him? - Yes. Sleep "sleep"? Or just kissing and petting? Sleep sleep! Why don't you call the police, you filthy whore. Stop it. He's a bastard. You too? You little slut! Let me go! Stop! Ouch! Tomorrow, at dawn, you leave. Where to? It doesn't matter. As far as possible. Yes, Said. Sure, it's me. Listen. The girls have left for a few days. And I want to have some fun. Get us some beer. So what? I feel like drinking. And something to eat. It's not my fault. She's the one who told me. Get drunk and come back to bed... Tell his mama, it's not my fault... Said! Hurry-up! Treason for treason... You started it... We're no whores, you pimp! Don't you dare die! Death is still to come! Tell me, Said! How is hell? Drink-up your beer! There's always a price to pay. Someone has to pay. I paid, because it had to be me. But why? Why you? Because I'm the eldest. That's all? What more do you want? Just because you're the eldest? Killing is awful. Couldn't the three of you just leave the country? What about treason? Shame? Pain? Isn't that awful? Three sisters who can't look each other in the eye? Isn't that awful? Listen. Lady. I spent 15 years in jail and I understood that the day I killed Said. I also killed myself. After 15 years, I discovered that I deserve to live. You're very puzzling, Safaa. Good evening, and welcome to your favorite show... "Let's Trash Egypt's Reputation!" Welcome back, Madam. Your show was disgusting, vile and degenerate. - Where are you going? - I'm fetching my bag. - I'm talking to you. - Don't you dare touch me! What? Did we offend Auntie Egypt's modesty, by talking to a woman... who sank low but managed to start-over again? Who regained her humanity? She settled her accounts, both with herself and with society. Listen to me carefully, Karim. Don't you ever dare speak to me like this again. I tried to contact Hilal Bey, but he wouldn't answer. Several times... I need you, Hebba. Stand by me, I beg you. They'll crush me. I'm doing my best, Karim. The show was not about politics. It was about crime and society. But that's politics... Everything is politics. This rotten society is the result of rotten politics... I'm doing my best to please you and your friends... But they're choking the two of us... Can't you feel that? Get up, Karim. Wait for me in our bed... Roll us a nice joint, and let's think of the babies we want to raise... Go ahead. I'd like to know that woman's story. - That's politics, Hebba? - Everything is politics, Roshdy. Good evening. - Good evening. Sir. - I have an appointment. Your name? Adham El Gharabaoui. You appear on TV? Sometimes. Please be seated. Thanks. What's your complaint? My teeth are sensitive to cold. - Anything else? - I'd like them whitened. I'm sure I've seen you somewhere. You're a TV presenter? Not at all. I'm often invited onto talk-shows. I'm an economic consultant. A graduate of Michigan University? And I run a consultancy firm and a branch in Dubai. A VIP patient, then? All your patients are VIPs. Ambassador Assaad Saleh... recommended you. A small world. Please open your mouth? Whitening your teeth shouldn't be a problem. But the molar that hurts needs filling. This is done in sessions. Under anesthesia. No anesthesia today. I'd look like an alcoholic on TV. Shall we go for whitening? Yes. Open your mouth. By the way. You have perfect teeth. Why do you mention that? You don't need any treatment. Seeing a dentist isn't much fun... even for those who have to. So why did you come see me? I wanted to meet you. You see, I'm looking for a bride. A woman from a good background, rich and virtuous. Someone recommended you. That's all. Who exactly? I swore not to tell. And I keep my promises. So you came prospecting? After all, I'm looking for the woman of my life. Mohamad! Come hold the reins! And I'm very glad I found you. I've been married before. To an American. A wonderful wife. We loved each other. An exceptional woman. So, why did you leave her? She couldn't adapt to life in Egypt. In the beginning, she was happy. Then things started falling apart. Sad. Mohamad! What exactly do you do? Several things. Member of the administrative board of a bank. A consultant to several companies. I am also a consultant to a Minister in the Economic Group... Why are you laughing? The Mercedes you're driving? Is it yours? Of course. Why? Nothing. I feel you're making a tremendous effort to appear modest. The horse-riding outfit? Is it yours? You're a lousy rider! So you really want to marry me. Immediately. Immediately? Am I a tie you like and want to acquire right away? I don't want you to slip out of my hands. I come from a big family. Conservative... Very. Many of them hold important positions. Very. Judges, doctors, engineers, police-officers... All these people had to be informed of my plans to marry. They all approved. There was one problem, though. The villa. The villa was under construction. It really existed. But still not finished. At first, we thought of postponing everything, until the villa was ready. Living in a furnished flat, was out of the question. As unacceptable as living with my mother in our family-villa. Where did he live? In the apartment he bought before his first marriage. Couldn't you have lived there? No. Psychologically, I couldn't. And it was such a tiny apartment. When you're married, you're supposed to rise socially... not fall. Right? Doesn't every mother teach that to her daughters? But you did get married. We reached a compromise, to satisfy everyone: Signing the marriage contract... First of all, so as to not "slip out of his hands"; and also to make my family accept my going out with him. In the name of God, the Merciful. I, undersigned, having consulted my Creator And prayed and saluted our Prophet Mohamad. Accept to marry your ward. The virgin and adult Miss Nahed Khairy Darwich, according to God's Book and His Prophet's tradition and declare owing her... the sum of 2 million and one Egyptian Pounds, one pound to be paid now, and 2 million pounds to be paid later. The persons present are witnesses. Congratilations. There was one condition... There would be no sexual relation between us, until we officially celebrate the breaking of the hymen (Dokhla). This was my request. Weren't you a bit tough on yourself? In my family, this is the way all girls have been brought up. So... Anyway... the contract was signed and we prepared for the Dokhla. I was looking after the villa. Choosing what we kept, deciding what to change. This! I was overjoyed. God had presented me with the man of my dreams... Then one evening... Before dying, my mother lived in that building... Mama's apartment... I know that line. It's in every film and soap-opera. Darling. What you're thinking of, won't happen. Not in Mama's, nor in Papa's apartment. After we celebrate the Dokhla, I'm ready to do it anywhere. Even in this car. In this car? You're my wife. This is an official marriage not a friendly companionship. In our home, and after celebrating the Dokhla. Do you want me to be unfaithful? I need this. So do you. It's our right. I don't take the pill. Don't worry. I'll be careful. So, it happened... I can't pretend I didn't find it wonderful and... beautiful. I was scared. It's true. Yet happy. But I told him: This is the first and last time. But when he'd say, the he misses Mama's apartment. I'd jump with joy. Until that awful day... By the way, Adham... We should celebrate the Dokhla as soon as possible. I'm doing my best with the architect. Forget the villa, darling! I'm ready to live anywhere... even if it's your... Mama's apartment. And what is the reason behind that radical decision? The reason is... I'm two months pregnant. And soon everyone will see... my tummy. Tell me, Nahed. How do I know that baby's mine? Are you out of your mind? I'm sterile. I can't be the father of that child. You could have stayed respectable. instead of dragging us all in the mud. You slut! Mama! He's my husband. Everyone is a witness. The worst is that he's sterile! So whose child is it, Miss Virtue? Mama! You know me! - Either you're a liar, or he's a crook. - No! I am no liar! It's my first relation with anyone... I didn't get pregnant through the Holy Ghost. That makes him a criminal. Call him... and ask to divorce. Then we'll see. Your requests, Doctor Nahed. A DNA test will prove that this is your baby. You know that. I want to keep the baby. Ask his father. You're the father. Repeat this, I'll consider it an insult and you'll be punished. Severely. Alright. Divorce me! And my dignity? Your dignity? What about your dignity? How does a cuckold appear? What is it that you want? Three million pounds. Blackmailing old maids? Is that what you really do? Blaming my wife for adultery. Does that make me a blackmailer? The 3 million pounds are the price of the offence, Doctor. Doctor Adham! My family is powerful enough to get you back to your senses. OK, Mohamed. Go back to the car. You're threatening me? I'm warning you. You wont get a penny. From me, nor from my family. Your family will hide like rats when they find out about you. My gynecologist... I'll call her Hanan. She's my fried. She immediately saw my despair. A courageous and moral woman. She questioned me after the operation. I told her everything. I know Adham. And I know his wife. - The American? - No. She's Egyptian. She's my patient. I delivered her baby-girl. I have her address. She can tell you all about Adham. If she had mentioned this before the abortion, I would have... What? Legally, he has to recognise the baby as his, and if he has doubts it's for him to require a DNA test! No. I didn't want his child. I didn't want anything to remind me of him. Cut to Camera 4 Hebba! You're not being professional. I started a divorce procedure. relinquishing all my rights: This man turned to be a fortune hunter... despite his social standing and his wealth. His victims were spinsters, widows and divorcees... His ex-wife was wonderful. She testified in court. And I got my divorce... All this happens frequently... it's almost common. Very common. But why were you arrested? Here is the latest news on the change in the Ministries. The President has announced the following appointments. Hisham Fathy, Minister of Energy... Dr Adham El Gharabaoui, Minister of Financial Development... Who has been a financial advisor in the United Arab Emirates and has a doctorate from Michigan University. What Are Your Criteria For Choosing Ministers? Their Integrity Or...? Lady, please! If you have a problem... Sir. I am perfectly aware of what I am doing. I am just asking a question. I am neither demonstrating, nor am I a terrorist... I have ID, and I'm just standing here on the street. I am not showing any signs of hostility, as you can see... What's this, Haytham? She wants nothing. She just wants to stand here. You seem to be a decent person. Just tell me what you want, before matters get out of hand. I want someone to answer the question here. OK, Haytham. Answer her. Right away, sir. Good evening, sir. No, Sir. I don't know the name of the Minister. No. I haven't asked her, and she didn't mention his name. Goodbye, Sir. You should turn off your phone, Madam. They wont stop. You're right. Yes, Sir. Right away, Sir. They wont let go. It's from very high-up. Yes, Sir. I'm sure, the President wants to know the name of the Minister. Yes. There is no such thing as the Ministry of Financial Development. We changed the name of the Ministry as well as that of the Minister. It was the guest's request. You could contact her directly. Good night, Sir. Yes, Hanan. Concerning me? What? But they promised him! Who told you? How can I tell him? Why are you in a hurry? The nominations for editor-in-chief seem to have gone to sleep. No, on the contrary, they're wide awake. Farewell, Karim. Do you have any news? Just rumours. In just a few hours, we'll know everything. When leaving, you only carry the good memories with you... Why are you here. Karim? Just making sure I leave? I wanted to be the first to congratulate you. The news seems great. Tonight, your wife's show was amazing. Incredible. I was glued to the screen. I missed it. I was saying goodbye to the editor-in-chief. You must see! It was about a corrupt Minister. The head of Parliament, announced this morning the names of... the new editors-in-chiefs of the government newspapers. Sherif Sobhy was appointed editor-in-chief of "Our Country" and administrative director of the daily, succeeding Ahmad Fouad. Karim. I'm glad you're back. I was worried. How are you? You're to blame for my failure. You and you're shitty show. Yesterday's show blew it all. You and your selfishness and obstinacy. No, Karim! We've known the name of the new editor for two days: Sherif Sobhy. Hanan called to tell me. I tried all night to call you; and almost came to your office. When you didn't answer, I thought you got the news. You're lying. I'm not lying, Karim. You just want to blame it on me? Blame it on you? Can't you see yourself? You're an inflatable doll. A showy parrot. You think you're a master juggler, but others are more skillful. Grow-up, baby. Try to be a man. What should I say? My name is Salma? We're on the air in 15 minutes, and Hebba isn't here yet. Both she and her husband can't be reached. It's Hebba. She's arrived, Roshdy. Positions everyone! Broadcasting in 3 seconds. Good evening, and welcome to "End of the Night, Beginning of the Day." I'm Hebba Younes... your host. What you're seeing is the truth... no make-believe. I've been beaten to death. Our scheduled program has been postponed. Tonight, I'm both the host and the guest. I'm the oppressed and beaten guest. Never would I have imagined that, I who tells other people's stories... could become a story too. But here I am. No one's better than anyone. I'll be back in a few minutes. Stay tuned. Hebba. How do you feel? Great.