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The film industry makes a soulful return to romance with 6 Ayam, a romance drama that transports audiences through multiple time periods to explore how love, friendship, and the human spirit evolve over time. Directed by newcomer Karim Shaaban and written by the celebrated Wael Hamdy, this film intertwines emotional depth with striking visuals to deliver a modern-day romance infused with nostalgic charm.

6 Ayam promises to linger in hearts long after the credits roll, and here’s why.

A Story Told Across Time

At its core, 6 Ayam follows Youssef, played by Ahmed Malek, and Alia, played by Aya Samaha, former high school sweethearts whose love story was interrupted by coercive circumstances. Years later, a chance encounter forces them to confront the impact of their past, the paths they have chosen, and the lingering power of unresolved feelings.

Set across five distinct time periods, the film dives into universal questions about the nature of love and friendship. Can we ever truly go back? Do the people we become still carry the hearts we once had? The film allows these questions to linger without forcing conclusions, leaving room for reflection.

It also captures the changing face of Egypt through the years, showcasing the subtle evolution of urban landscapes, social norms, and cultural touchstones. From hangout spots to Nokia phones, every detail is a snapshot of a moment in time, evoking a profound sense of nostalgia.

A Debut That Dazzles

Karim Shaaban’s feature debut is nothing short of masterful. Known for his acclaimed short films, such as Essam Omar’s Shift Masa2y and Salma Abu Deif’s Insha2allah El Donia Tethad, Karim steps into the world of commercial cinema with confidence and sensitivity. His direction is powered by a delicate understanding of human relationships, and his attention to detail elevates each frame. His love for classic Egyptian cinema is evident in the soundtrack and score that intertwines contemporary melodies with timeless classics. The music becomes a character in its own right, one that amplifies emotions.

Writing That Hits Home

Wael Hamdy, the pen behind Hepta: The Last Lecture and Anf w Thalath 3eyoun, returns with a script that, for the first time, is not an adaptation. His ability to capture raw, unfiltered emotions is on full display. His dialogue feels refreshingly real, as if pulled from the very moments that define our own lives. It’s a story that asks if feelings change as we do and offers no simple answers.

A Visual and Auditory Feast

The cinematography by Ahmed Tarek Bayoumy transforms 6 Ayam into a visual symphony. His work, best known in El Bahs 3an Manfaz Le Khoroug El Sayed Rambo, employs lighting, colour palettes, and framing that reflect the characters’ inner worlds. Each time period is rendered with meticulous authenticity, from the juice cartons and public payphones of the late 2000s to the evolving fashion trends and nostalgic radio hits. This attention to detail grounds the film in realism, making the passage of time palpable.

Performances Transcending the Screen

Ahmed Malek continues to prove himself to be one of Egypt’s most versatile actors. His portrayal of Youssef is a masterclass in emotional depth, capturing the character’s journey from youthful optimism to disillusioned adulthood and eventual renewal. His expressions and body language convey a lifetime of experiences, making Youssef’s struggles deeply relatable.

Aya Samaha delivers what may be her most authentic performance to date. Her portrayal of Alia is raw, tender, and heartbreakingly real. Her chemistry with Malek, despite this being their first collaboration, is electric, drawing viewers into the complexity of their connection.

A standout moment is a flashback featuring young Youssef, played by Malek Emad, whose resemblance to a younger Ahmed Malek is uncanny. The casting choice, paired with period-accurate styling, makes the transition between past and present seamless.

Predictability and Coincidence

The narrative trajectory, though heartfelt, is somewhat expected, making certain twists feel anticipated rather than surprising. Also, the film’s heavy reliance on coincidences, while a staple of romantic dramas, feels slightly unfitting within the hyper-realistic world it strives to depict. Although a playful nod to fate and serendipity is offered near the film’s conclusion, some moments, particularly the ending, stretch plausibility a bit too far.

Breathing New Life into Romance

With 6 Ayam, producer Ahmed Fahmy and Sea Cinema Productions have taken a bold step in reviving the romantic drama genre. Following the success of El Hawa Sultan, this film reaffirms the importance of heartfelt storytelling in a landscape often dominated by action and thrillers. The thoughtful risk of focusing on a character-driven, emotionally complex love story is a testament to the power of cinema to move and inspire.

Final Thoughts

6 Ayam is a blend of nostalgia, romance, and introspection. It’s a film that will make you smile, cry, and, most importantly, remember. Anchored by stunning performances, visionary direction, and a script that pulses with life, it is a cinematic experience that reminds us why we fall in love with movies in the first place.