Directed by Adolf El Assal, Sawah is a classic film that features Samir (Karim Kassem), a DJ with no papers but with sheer determination to soar higher heights in the music industry. Propelled by the rising protests in Egypt, his home country, the complicated social relationship in his family as well as his passion for music, Samir wins at a contest in Cairo which gives him an international platform to showcase his prowess in Brussels, Belgium. The trip to Brussels does not go as planned as he is forced to land in Luxemburg. New to this world, Samir faces the authority who takes him as an immigrant, just like other non-locals who pass by illegally. The encounters in Luxemburg opens up the inferiority complex of the law enforcement officers, the multiculturalism, and also the punitive dynasties establishing themselves as the local authorities in Luxemburg.
Adolf bases Sawah on personal experience as he found himself in Luxemburg by mistake when he was no older than seven years. His ability to produce such a film with comical twists and incorporate international languages is thrilling and brilliant as he manages to take his jokes global. Difficult as it might be to find a spot in the international comedy spot, the challenge motivates Adolf to find one. His unique ability to use his personal experience and produce such a classic film portrays the level of determination, brilliance and immense prowess that he possesses.
Sawah serves to achieve several missions at the same time. It presents the political and social circumstances in Cairo where injustice prevails. Music, however, brings people together as seen in the first scene of the film. Talents, although sometimes underrates, propel the characters in the film to reach their heights. Samir is determined to take Cairo music international while her girlfriend Amal is determined to share with the world the history-making process in Egypt through the art of photography. The film also serves to appreciate different cultures as Samir traverses through Luxemburg. His encounters involve meeting Hebrews, Arabs, English and other people from different cultures. The fact that Adolf manages to fit the main character in all these contexts, and in a hilarious way, proves his capabilities and determination in making a spot in the international comedy world.
Running for 86 minutes, the film reveals the talent behind its creation and the determination of the director to present to the audience the life immigrants go through in Luxemburg. The film captures the real experiences of these immigrants, their encounters with the Travellers as well as the authority of the Grand Duchy of Luxemburg that is used to dealing with non-locals passing by as either refugees or immigrants.
The film, Sawah 2019, excels in its production and creation through its superb incorporation with other arts. Music is heavily employed and artistically used in different scenes to create emotions, capture attention and tension as well. Though it racks the entire film, its artistic incorporation showcases the power of art in cinema to create feelings and emotions. The lighting of the film offers the audience an awe experience as it is professionally used with the camera shots done artistically. All the aspects of this film collaborate in ensuring the audience gets a lifetime thrilling experience!
