The fusion of cinema and ancient Egyptian civilization has long intrigued scholars, enthusiasts, and filmmakers alike. Now, a groundbreaking book titled “Cinema and Ancient Egyptian Civilization” by Dr. Hussein Bassir and Mr. Sami Helmi brings forth a comprehensive exploration of this captivating subject. Published under the auspices of the General Authority for Culture Palaces, a subsidiary of the Egyptian Ministry of Culture, this work sheds light on the enduring allure and profound impact of cinema on our understanding of ancient Egypt.
The Genesis of Cinematic Enchantment
In their introductory remarks, the authors reflect on the timeless charm of cinema, tracing its origins to the Lumière brothers’ historic screenings in 1895. From its nascent beginnings, cinema has captivated audiences worldwide, serving as a conduit for direct communication and emotional elevation. This introductory chapter sets the stage for a multifaceted journey into the realms of both film and ancient Egyptian civilization.
Exploring the Contents
The book’s contents span a wide array of topics, delving into various aspects of the intersection between cinema and ancient Egypt. From the enchantment of cinematic storytelling to the contributions of filmmakers and scholars in documenting Egypt’s rich heritage, each chapter offers a nuanced perspective on this intricate relationship. Key themes include the role of Egyptian knights in cinematic narratives, the influence of independent cinema, and the depiction of ancient Egyptian stories on the silver screen.
The contents of the book include the following topics: The Magic of Cinema, Magdi Abdel Rahman Documents Films about Ancient Egypt, Film Producers about Ancient Egypt, Egyptian Knights and Cinema about Ancient Egypt, Saad Nadim… The Pioneer, The Talmassani Brothers… The Creators, Kamel Talmassani… The Teacher, Hassan Talmassani… The Magician of Photography, Abdel Qader Talmassani… The Intellectual, Shadi Abdel Salam…
The Unique, Samir Awwad… The Sufi, John Feeney… The Sources of the Sun, Ahmed Fouad Darwish… The Pharaoh, Hani Lashin… The Ever-Glowing, Independent Cinema, Ahmed Abdel Alim Qassem and “Chasing the Dream”, The Grand Egyptian Museum… Chasing the Dream, Dalia El Abd and “The Spirit of Akhenaten”, Akhenaten The Unified King,
Director Mohamed Salah and Djoser and Imhotep and “Ambassadors of Civilization, Foreign Documentary Films about Ancient Egypt, Egyptian Narrative Films about Ancient Egypt, Foreign Narrative Films about Ancient Egypt, Ancient Egyptian Stories Suitable for Cinema, Cinema in Ancient Egypt, Global Cinema and Antiquities and Archaeologists, Reviving the Identity of Ancient Egypt through Cinema, Eternal Cinema, Arab and Translated References, Foreign References, Websites, Map of Ancient Egypt, Timeline of Ancient Egyptian History, Authors in Brief, Author Sami Helmi: A Brief Biography, Author Dr. Hussein Abdel Basir: A Brief Biography.
A Call to Cultural Consciousness
In their concluding remarks, the authors underscore the importance of leveraging cinema to foster cultural awareness and appreciation, particularly among younger generations. At a time when misinformation and cultural appropriation abound, this book serves as a powerful tool for reclaiming and celebrating Egypt’s rich heritage. Through cinematic endeavors and educational initiatives, the authors advocate for the preservation and dissemination of Egypt’s cultural legacy to a global audience.
Author Profiles
Dr. Hussein Basir, an eminent archaeologist and novelist, brings a wealth of expertise to this project. With degrees from Cairo University and Johns Hopkins University, he has contributed extensively to the study and promotion of ancient Egyptian civilization. His co-author, Mr. Sami Helmi, is a distinguished film historian and member of the Egyptian Writers Union. His lifelong dedication to cinema and cultural advocacy enriches the book’s narrative and insights.
It is worth mentioning that the author of the book, Dr. Hussein Basir, is an Egyptian archaeologist, novelist, and writer, and a member of the Egyptian Writers Union. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Ancient Egyptian Antiquities from the Faculty of Antiquities at Cairo University, and his Master’s and Ph.D. degrees in Ancient Egyptian Antiquities and the History and Antiquities of the Ancient Near East from Johns Hopkins University in the United States. He has authored a large number of books, scientific articles, novels, and stories such as “Khnum”, “Oshatat”, “The Magic of Alexandria”, “The Book of Secrets”, and others. He authored in English “Image and Sound in Medieval Egypt”. He authored the book “Living Forever: Self-Representation in Ancient Egypt” with a group of the world’s most prominent Egyptologists. He wrote the film “Zoser and Imhotep: The King and the Genius”. He held several positions domestically and internationally. He participated in many important archaeological discoveries produced by Egyptian and foreign archaeological missions in numerous archaeological sites such as Giza, Saqqara, Dahshur, the Oasis, Heliopolis, and Nabta Playa in the Western Desert, among others. He was the general supervisor of the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in Fustat, the Grand
Conclusion
“Cinema and Ancient Egyptian Civilization” stands as a testament to the enduring resonance of Egypt’s cultural heritage in the realm of cinema. Through meticulous research, insightful analysis, and impassioned advocacy, Dr. Hussein Bassir and Mr. Sami Helmi illuminate the profound connections between past and present, celluloid and civilization. This landmark publication promises to inspire scholars, filmmakers, and enthusiasts alike, inviting them to embark on a cinematic odyssey through the sands of time.
