Cast
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Farid Shawqy
as moselhi
Nahed Sherif
as layla
Abu Bakr Ezzat
as hamdy
Soheir Zaky
as rawayh
Hassan Mostafa
as mokhtar
Samir Sabri
as safwat
ElSayd Rady
as abdo
Kawthar Shafik
as huda
Zaki Ibrahim
as zaki
Salwa Fouad
as mervat
Samir Waley Eldein
as janitor
Anwar Madkour
as bahgat
Eskandar Mansy
as accountant
Ahmed Morsi
as ahmed
Samiha Mohamed
as wahyba
Crew
Director
- ElSayed Bedir
Writer
- ElSayed Bedir
- Rashad Hejazy
Producer
- عباس حلمي
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The idiot examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director ElSayed Bedir brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1966, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The idiot took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1966, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: January 5, 1966
- Runtime: 1h 39m