Backdrop preview The Street Player backdrop
The Street Player

The Street Player (1983)

Aug 06, 1983 1h 49m Drama

Fares, a shoe factory worker, has only one passion in life: football. He lives a humble life in a chaotic neighborhood where he plays street football to increase his income. However, neither his marriage nor his job is stable enough. He goes through a lot of problems due to his lack of self-discipline with his divorced wife and his son.

Directed by Mohamed Khan

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Mohamed Khan
Writer
  • Bashir El Deek
Producer
  • Nadia Shokry
  • Atef El-Tayeb
  • Mohamed Khan
  • Bashir El Deek

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Street Player 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 Mohamed Khan 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 1983, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Street Player took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 109 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 133 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The film contains approximately 2437 individual shots.
  • The musical score contains over 42 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 1983, when this film was released:
  • Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
  • MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While The Street Player shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Miracle Season, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Street Player subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Summer Storm and Bend It Like Beckham explore similar territory, The Street Player stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: August 6, 1983
  • Runtime: 1h 49m