- Film director Omar El Zohairy is a rising star in the Egyptian film industry.
- His debut feature, titled « Feathers, » is a comedy that combines elements of Woody Allen and Franz Kafka.
- The film is a social-surrealist parable about a woman’s role in a male-dominated society.
- El Zohairy showcases his talent through the use of deadpan wit and skillful framing.
- The story takes place in a cramped and squalid apartment, where a factory worker lives with his unhappy wife and three children.
- The wife’s life is filled with tension as she struggles to support her family with the meager money her husband provides.
- The film emphasizes the importance of money and power, showcasing scenes of cash being counted and deals being made.
- During their son’s birthday party, the father invites friends and a high-ranking figure referred to as « Boss » to their home.
- An entertainer at the party accidentally turns the father into a chicken and escapes, leaving the responsibility of caring for the chicken to the mother.
- In the film, the chicken becomes a symbol of sacredness and the mother must take on additional jobs to support the family.
- The « Boss » becomes attracted to the mother, further complicating her situation.
- She needs her son to work at the factory, but the owners will only allow it if she can provide official documentation regarding her husband’s absence.
- The film explores the woman’s ambiguous position as a widow, divorcee, or deserted woman, emphasizing her loneliness and burdens.
- The comedy of having a chicken in the house is contrasted by the violence depicted in the wife’s meatpacking job.
- The narrative tension centers around when and how the husband will be transformed back into a human.
- The film’s ending surprises the audience and adds an extra layer of imbalance to the story.
- « Feathers » is an intriguing film that combines humor and social commentary.
- It will be available on BFI Player starting from July 3rd.
