Mona Zaki's Transformative Experience Portraying Umm Kulthum
The fourth edition of the Bahrain Film Festival, themed "Celebrating the Art of Filmmaking for Her," commenced on November 3rd and runs until November 7th. This year's festival emphasizes the empowerment of women and the issues they face within the film industry. The opening ceremony featured the Bahraini short film "Confusing," directed by Mohammed Farid, which captivated the audience.
During a session titled "Women in Cinema," renowned Egyptian actress Mona Zaki shared insights about her portrayal of the legendary singer Umm Kulthum in an upcoming film. Zaki expressed that embodying Umm Kulthum has profoundly impacted her personality, stating that she still feels connected to the character despite filming concluding just ten days prior. She described Umm Kulthum as a "legend by all standards" and acknowledged the challenges of portraying such an iconic figure, labeling the experience as "very difficult."
Overcoming Criticism and Celebrating Contributions
In her heartfelt discussion, Zaki reflected on the criticism she has faced throughout her career, which once forced her to retreat from the public eye for five years. She credited the support from her colleagues in the artistic community for helping her navigate this difficult period.
The festival also honored several artists for their contributions to cinema, including Kuwaiti actor Mohammed Al-Mansour and Bahraini actresses Maryam Ziman and Fatima Abdul Rahim, highlighting the significant role women play in the film industry. A total of 89 films will be screened at the festival across five main competitions, showcasing a diverse range of narratives and styles. The event has attracted numerous stars from the Arab world, enhancing its reputation as a key cultural gathering.
