Original subtitles

In 1937 Mr Yacoubian, head of the Cairo Armenian community

built an apartment building named after him

A European-style building designed by an Italian architect

He was so proud of his work

he had his name carved above the entrance in Roman letters

Among the building's tenants

were Ministers, Pashas, foreigners and even Jews

Two apartments belonged to the eminent Nosseir family

The roof was vast

It had a porter's apartment, a laundry

and a storeroom for each apartment

Everything was beautiful

The country was beautiful

And the building was also beautiful

But revolution marked the end of the Pasha era

After the 1956 war, Jews and foreigners left the country

Army officers took over the vacated apartments

and their wives were even known to raise chickens on the roof

The storerooms became servants' quarters

The building's occupants had changed

Anew wind was blowing

The streets were changing, new shops were opening

The people changed too

The officers' arrival was the start of the building's decline

Their departure only served to hasten it

Having become rich, they moved out

selling their apartments for tidy sums

The occupants changed again

The roof was a real rabbit warren with one family per room

The building had changed, the whole country had changed

YACOUBIAN BUILDING

I told you a thousand times this is a respectable place!

Behave yourself if you want to stay!

A lot of people get drunk here yet they behave themselves!

You want to go home on a stretcher? I do it to one customer every day!

Get drunk, but don't cross the line!

Go sit elsewhere. The Pasha's waiting for a friend

Another beer or fresh appetizers, Pasha?

No, beer fills me up and I keep having to go to the men's room

Have a whiskey then

Whiskey! No way!

If I drink your whiskey, I'll go blind, permanently blind

You're so funny, Pasha

Why not go to the top hotels' bars? You can afford it

Listen...

Liquor is not what I'm interested in and you know it

I'm till thinking it over

You don't have to. We'll just have a few drinks

That's all?

That's all

In that case, I'll go to your office

When?

Tomorrow or after tomorrow, when I'm in the mood

Tomorrow

- Go get the bill - With pleasure

Send 6 more cases of beer. It's in demand these days

Don't be late

Table 9's bill

Are you working table 9?

If we're serious with customers, you ask us to be nice

He's respectable and generous. Why shouldn't talk to hire?

I don't like anything going on behind my back

In here, sure. Outside I'mfree to do what I want

I'll get the money and be back

Go ahead

What's up, Taha? Are you stupid like your father?

Why clean stairs now?

I have to do it at night. There are fewer people around

OK; stop chattering! Dry up so I can get into my apartment

Yes, sir

Move aside! Move!

Did you graduate high school?

-Yes - Will you go to uni?

My grades are good for anywhere but I applied to the Police Academy

You want to be a police officer?

Don't forget to replace the door-mat after you finish

Goodnight, Bosaina

You too, Am Hamid

- Don't forget to turn the TV off - Don't worry

Come on, man, I'm asleep

What a nag! You can always wake up, woman!

Will you be at it all night?

Be gentle, man

I am gentle!

Stop! The kid's here!

Haven't you stayed up enough?

Or are you waiting for your sweetheart?

- Don't you have to go to work early? - I quit

- When? - Today

Why?

I'm watching the movie

Movie!

Must I be miserable all day long?

Get up and tell me what happened! Come on, move it, girl!

Your father left me with a burden I can't carry by myself!

- Why did you quit your job? - My boss has wandering hands

The thief! He can't rob himself!

No, he touched me

- He hit you? - No

Then what, girl?

He was groping, got it?

Tomorrow I'll look for a new job

A friend is taking me to some Syrian guy's clothes store

He's a decent man and married to a gorgeous woman

I told you Am Salama's daughter Fifi would find me a job

It's no use! You don't hold on to any job!

- Want me to lose my honor? - I'm not saying that

But think of your siblings and our terrible situation

Aclever girl knows how to protect her honor without upsetting anyone

and losing her job!

The jerk I was working for opened his zipper!

As long as it was his and not yours it's OK!

May God forgive me!

I'm purifying myself fromall impurities and sins!

Good morning, Dawlat

Why are you all dressed up?

I'm always elegant, Dawlat

I just want to know where you go everyday

Thank God you're my sister and not my wife

I go to the office, where else? Anyway, what are you getting at?

I know you walk around the streets, ogling women...

Come on, Dawlat!

I'm your sister, Zaki.

I know what you do everyday

What do you want?

The jeweler's fixing my diamond ring. Go and get it from him

It'll be the first thing I do today. And I'll pay for it too

How are you?

Fine, thanks, Pasha.

Pasha! Pasha!

- What is it, Hassouna? - Things are very bad

What things?

You know well, sir

I've been married for only a month

and yet I'm not pleased

At your age? What's wrong? You have problems?

Who hasn't, sir?

I'm talking about your problems

I owe people money and my employer fired me for some unknown reason,

my mother-in-law is living with us,

and my sister's got divorced and she has kids!

All these problems and you expect things to be fine with your wife?

Do you have one of those pills? [ heard...

Heard what? Pills at your age is certain suicide

All the pills in the world won't help you

Your mind has to be clear

Clear your mind and you'll be a real stud!

Get rid of your worries and you'll be just fine

- Move the car from here! - Hatem Bey's coming right now

- Good morning, Nabeeh - Good morning, Mr Hatem

Good morning, Haj

- How's the market? - End of the month. Not so good

- But in general? - Great, we're the top-sellers

- That's good - Just honor us a bit, Haj

- I'll have tea with you another time - Goodbye, Haj

No, I can't come out, Fawzl

Why, Haj? Just bless us

- How's work going? - Just peachy!

Great. Say hello to everyone

- [ will, Haj! Goodbye! - Drive on!

- I hope he's a good man - In what way?

- I hope he doesn't flirt - Impossible

All men flint, dear. They have one-track minds

I've left so many jobs over that

Fool! Chill out a bit and you might find one.

- Meaning? - A girl can accept certain things

without crossing the line. That's what clever girls do

I thought life would smile on me

Why? Because you're pretty? There are prettier girls

You have a commerce diploma? So do beggars on the streets

Your article's made a big fuss, sir

It should be translated and published in the Arabic newspapers

Forget yesterday's issue. What about the next one?

Our leading story should be

on the terrorists who tried to kill the writer Naguib Mahfouz

Exactly! I want all the details of their arrest,

their photos, and most importantly, who they are

The whole damn thing!

You'll get it!

Who'll write about the death of Rita Gallad,

the founder of the Journal d'Egypte?

As a French newspaper we should honor her

I'll do it

And the Ministry of the Interior's big efforts in Upper Egypt?

We want to rebuild trust in tourism

and inspire confidence

Write about tourism in Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada

They're towns with activities and they're safe

I have a very good subject a new journalist's written about

It's a great article about homosexuality in Egypt

What's this nonsense? Homosexuality!

It doesn't concern our readers who are mostly foreigners

Let's take the investigation page

The monuments of Tal El-Amarna...

It's new, it's photogenic...

That's an important subject

What about sports, boss?

Do we have sports? Just write about anything

Football...

The French ambassador's office

Jean-Mi, how are you?

Last night was great, wasn't it?

What's up, Haj?

Unlike you to visit us so early!

- Necessity calls, Sheikh Salman - What is it?

It's been a while...

I can't say it!

I'm your confidant, just say

Today, once more...

in my sleep...

I see exciting things

Ablessing from Allah!

Imagine still having wet dreams at my age!

And once or twice a week!

How wonderful!

Allah's granted you good health

It has nothing to do with age

It's just a natural release

for pious people who don't know the path of vice

But how about your wife?

The Hajja's fine

But she's no longer interested in such things

If I get close, she says,

"Behave yourself, your sons have become men"

Even if she agrees, she's my age...

and gets tired easily

That's very easy:

marry again!

-I'd be too afraid - Of what?

Of what people would say about me remarrying at my age

People's gossip is nothing compared to God's laws

It's your right to marry 4 women 50 as not to give in to Satan

What about my sons? Fawzi, Qadri and Hamdi the D.A.?

What religion allows

can't be disputed by anyone!

It's God's law, Haj

Architect's Office

- [ told you to polish that sign - I swear, I just did

The place smells stuffy! Open the windows!

I'm afraid the flies will get in

Come on! Open the windows!

- Do you have a meeting? -Yes, I do

- Shall I prepare the stuff? -Yes, do

Perfect... Fifi!

Yes, sir?

- Can you train her up for the job? -Yes, sir

Thanks a lot, Mr Talaal I promise I won't disappoint you

Who shall I say is here?

Rabaab. I'm expected

Welcome, welcome!

How beautiful you are!

Whoever comes into my home becomes one of us

You call it home?

Home or office

It's a safe, comfortable and nice place

I was afraid you wouldn't come

I always keep my promises

Who's this?

My late father

He looks like a real Pasha

Do you think I'm a fake Pasha?

That photo of Dad was taken in the lobby of the Royal Palace

after he swore allegiance to the King... Ice?

When he first became Minister of Public Works

That's why I agreed to come

So I'd be proud

to know a real Pasha for once in my life

You know, with all the riffraff I deal with in the bar...

You're so funny

But I'm down on my luck

Where's the bathroom?

- Through there and to your right - Excuse me

Everything's fine, Pasha

I need to pop out to meet my brother Malaak

We have an issue to settle

Take your time

Did I hear the door?

Yes, that's right

I love practical women

I've known so many women, princesses and maids

But none as lovely as you

What about the door?

What door? Fanous went out

He'll be out for a while

Perfect

Is this an accountancy, import-export or lawyer's office?

You really need to know if 'man accountant or a lawyer?

It's an engineering office. I'm an engineer

I don't see engineer tools

I had some when I came back from France

I got my degree in France

So you know French?

Of course

You'll see for yourself that I'm an expert in French

Come on, Pasha! Why did you quit engineering?

The country doesn't need engineers now

It needs bums...

and thieves

- Where'll we sleep, Pasha? - In the conference room

- Has he arrived? - 20 minutes ago.

Hail the Virgin Mary!

Whatever happens between us, keep out of it

I get you, brother. Does he know we're coming?

He set the appointment himself and left a word at the gate

You have the money?

Of course, we keep our word

And Jesus is our witness on Judgment Day

I've brought my brother Malaak

50 you'd see how honest he is

Listen, Fanous

I don't have to investigate everyone who wants to live on the roof

He won't live there, sir

Since the last tenant died, the room's been closed

My brother Malaak is a tailor and will work in it

and then go home at night

He has a family and kids and is overburdened

Never mind that. You have the money?

Not all, sir

A good, pious Copt doesn't lie at all

And 3 good, pious Copt should keep his word

I said 6000 LE. Shall I put that in the contract?

4000 LE, Mr Feki

We know that you'll be kind to us

You're charitable towards everyone

You've taken many cases without taking fees

Consider us one of your cases

This poor soul's supporting a big family and is on Church aid

As I'm handicapped

I can't help him

The priest at church said you do a lot of charity work

I'm from your parish

What are you doing?

OK; leave the money

and one of you can get the contract tonight

God bless you

We have every color you can imagine, sir

But delivery will be take 3 months

What is it, dad?

Nothing

You're not in the mood

My head's busy

But don't worry,

it has nothing to do with work at all

- Want a joint? - What great timing!

Fawzi, Sheikh Salman wants to see you and your brothers

Listen to him carefully

- What is it, Haj? - He'll tell you everything

Enjoy it

What about the Japanese group?

Great!

We've won it

Great!

May God protect us from the scavengers!

I almost forgot, Haj

Seleem Za'tar of the customs has opened a big office

He insists you attend the inauguration

I'll go, he's earned it

Fifi got me a new job

Where?

Talaal El Shami's shop

Couldn't you work for someone other than Talaal El-Shami?

Hush! What's wrong with Talaal?

- His reputation's so bad - You've never worked for him

I know every inch of the neighborhood and everyone in it

I was raised here

- I've seen nothing bad from him - But you will

When I do, I'll reconsider!

I get 250 LE a month. A quarter of what my family needs

My mom earns 300 LE as a maid and it exhausts her

My dad died in debt. Some people are asking for money

and we must pay up or he won't go to Heaven!

And you say Talaal's reputation's bad!

Who hasn't got a bad reputation in Egypt?

If you're worried about your ring, here it is!

Don't play the cop with me!

Pasha!

Are you ill?

Shall I get a doctor?

- What time is it now? -7:30

Where is my watch?

What is it, Pasha?

I was robbed, Fanous. The wallet had 900 LE in it

I was robbed

The girl took everything

Even my sister Dawlat's ring

Even the gold pen-set

What would a prostitute do with that?

Sell it or give it to her lover. Let's report it to the police

Are you stupid?

What would I tell them?

The money isn't important.

What counts is getting Dawlat's ring back

Have a great evening, sir. At your service

- Get me Rabaab -Won'tl do?

Of course, but I want to discuss a private issue

She's off today and I'm at your service

- Get me the manager - The manager?

- Order a drink first. - The manager!

Here they are, count them!

You're right, you had 6 beers

but you also had 9 brandy chasers

I'had no brandy

Either pay up or we'll go to the men's room!

Yes, Pasha?

I want Rabaab

Wasn't she with you earlier? Miss her already?

You know everything

In my business you should know everything

She robbed me

You deserve it, you flirt

You've wronged me, the owners of the shop and our customers

This is a respectable place

We serve drinks only

We don't know the other things, we're respectable people

That's why I kicked Rabaab out

and I'm kicking you out too!

Don't ever think of coming anywhere near my bar again!

Would you like to leave on your feet or on a trailer, Romeo?

Get out before I humiliate you in front of all the riffraff here!

How did I miss it?

Why didn't I see you were a pimp?

- Good evening - Good evening

Where's Hoda Sha'rawi Street?

I don't know

Aren't you from around here?

I am but sometimes I get lost

I don't know any of these streets

I just stand where they station us

You stand all night?

It's my job, sir

Can't you sit down?

If I was caught sitting or sleeping I'd be punished right away

- But you can walk? - Only in my area

You seem to be a great and well-bred guy

Thank you, sir

Walk a little with me

- But, sir... - Come, come

- Here - I can't!

We're not allowed to take anything from anyone

What's your name?

Abd Rabbo Abdel-Bari

It's a nice name

First I'm not anyone

Second no one is watching 50 take the money

That's too much, sir. No one pays this much

I do

I like to make people happy

May God grant you happiness

When you know me well, you'll know for yourself

God bless you, sir

Where've you been, Pasha?

Evening, Dawlat

"Evening, Dawlat"?

What's with you?

Think you're in a hotel?

- Talk to me! - Yes, Dawlat?

Know what time is it? I've been waiting for hours

Worrying about you!

I'm not a kid

Should I worry about you or about my health?

I'm tired and need sleep

Tired? What of?

Of running after broads on the streets and cheap bars?

Act your age, shameless man!

You're one step away from the grave

Fear God in your last days!

You're crazy

if you think a woman will ever like you!

Dirty old man!

Open up or I'll break down the door!

You've ruined our family's reputation and our late father's good name!

I want my ring back!

- Why're you here so early? - Waiting for you

I was wrong, Taha, but you must forgive me

Life's like a trap and sometimes I don't realize what I'm saying

Give me the ring back

No

Give it to me, I know you have it

Give it to me. Don't be so melodramatic

You need patience with a girl like you, but it'll work out

- Have you looked in the mirror? - Just quickly

You look great

Pray for me today

You'll do great, you look better than real police officers

I'm going out early to catch a bus before they get crowded

So my suit won't get creased

Take a taxi, you'll arrive relaxed

And say this prayer before the exam: "God, let my words be above theirs"

And recite the two protective verses of the Qur'an

Bye

Come, Haj

Listen to me

Ministers and other important people inaugurate big establishments

Take a seat

Thanks to God and to you

I've become a big establishment and thought you should bless it

You're dear to me, Za'tar and I'm happy for you and my sons

May God grant you more

- What will you drink, Haj? - Coffee

You can have coffee later. Suad!

Yes, Mr Seleem

- Bring a juice for Haj Azzam - OK

Bring it yourself, Suad

Of course, Mr Seleem

She's lovely! Is she your daughter, Za'tar?

No, she's one of my employees. My daughter's in prep school

How nice! So she's your secretary

We don't use secretaries, Haj

Mrs Suad's clever and active

- Is she married? - She has a son, 6 or 7 years old

Her husband went to Iraq and died there

God rest his soul

I don't know how he died

Please, Haj Azzam

Thank you

I'll fix you the coffee myself

With a little sugar, please

With pleasure

What is it, Haj?

Some people have soothing faces

She seems well-bred

You have high grades, Taha: 89%

Why did you choose Police Academy?

So I can serve my country

You can serve your country in any college

You serve your country better in an area you like

Perfect. What qualities do you need to be a good police officer?

Discipline, firmness, honesty

and above all, true humanity

- What does your father do? - He's an employee

Employee or janitor?

But...

Ajanitor is an employee

Dismissed. Next!

- Where were you? - In the storeroom with Mr Talaal

What were you doing?

Stocktaking. He was checking the goods we're short on

Then why's everybody looking at you both?

Because they know we were doing it in the storeroom

Don't blush! We do it with our clothes on

- With your clothes on! -Yes

He rubs himself against me till he shudders and quivers

And that's it!

And he pays me 10 LE. It isn't bad

We're all the same. It'll be your turn soon

Why can't everyone mind their own business?

Saddam Hussein killed a lot of Egyptians

He might've killed the husband of that nice employee

I don't like to talk to her about it

But why didn't she marry after him?

Who'd marry a poor woman with a little kid to support?

There are more fish in the sea

Who'd marry a widow with a diploma in commerce with a kid?

I would

But she's so poor, Haj

She's nothing compared to you

She's not up to your standard

Listen, Za'tar, I fear God

I want someone 10 sleep with. I don't want her monthly salary

In that case, it'll be her lucky break

If her family accepts my conditions, I'll marry her

You've lost my diamond ring, you immoral bum!

And you lied to me and said you hadn't gone to the jeweler!

Behave yourself, Dawlat

Behave myself, you bum?

Who did you give the ring to? One of your tramps?

You've tarnished the biggest family in Egypt!

Out of my house!

Your house? It's mine! It's the house of El-Desouki Pasha!

Whose name you've tarnished!

You're dirtier than I am!

At least I do my dirty stuff outside the family house

But you did it here with enough men 10 make up the El-Wald Party!

You've lost your mind. You belong in an asylum!

If I belong to the asylum, where do you belong?

In sleazy bars with other punks like you?

Or on the sidewalks running after women?

Get out of my house!

This house is mine! You're a guest here!

You're a pestering guest. I cant fake anymore!

Neither can I. Get out!

I'll show you up in front of all the tenants

or I'm not Dawlat, daughter of El-Desouki Pasha!

What is it, everyone?

Just a fight between brother and sister

Dawlat has always been mad

Christine... my love

The treasure of my life!

What is it, Zaki? What's wrong with you?

You always read my mind

You're like a TV to me, and right now you're showing a sad serial

It's sad but not a serial

As you always say: it's not worth it

Come on, let's sit

I'had a fight with my sister Dawlat

What's new?

She kicked me out of the house

She's crazy! But she's kind

You must've made a big mistake this time

I lost her ring, but I'm ready to buy her a better one

Zaki, you should be ashamed!

A woman can lose her husband, her lover, her father...

but never her jewelry

And if I told you she'd been plotting to kick me out of the apartment?

- And do what with it? - Take it for herself

- And do what with it? - Give it to her kids

If I die, Dawlat inherits everything. She's my only heir

She's older than you and might die before you

Then her kids will inherit from her

I don't know why she's doing this

I don't agree with you

She must've calmed down now. I'll talk to her over the phone

and everything will be fine

Don't waste your breath. I know her

Bet you a bottle of Black Label?

I'll talk to her

The subject's closed, Mrs Christine

Any words will be useless

Yes, dear, but it's his house too

No, madam, you need to understand

He'll never get into the apartment again

Neither while I'm alive nor after my death!

- Just calm down and listen - I don't want to hear anything!

Please. For my sake

What? Who do you think you are?

You're just one of his lovers

Head of the "inner wheel" club!

I'm Christine! What are you saying?

Instead of wasting your time with me, tend to your customers

They might need something

You win, Zaki

I told you

I thought she was crazy, but she's a lowlife bitch!

She'll die before you, God willing!

Welcome, Mr Hatem

You've brightened the place! Welcome!

Let them bring us everything you think is good

- And the drinks, Mr Hatem? - Whiskey

- And the mister? - Whiskey too

He's my friend Abd Rabbo

- Welcome, Mr Abd Rabbo - Hello, sir

- Please hurry up -Yes, sir

Let's break bread, Abd Rabbo. Eat and drink as you like

You needn't bother, sir

I want you to be so happy

God bless you, sir

It's not sweet but it's delicious

Yes, delicious, sir

After you have another drink

you'll find that you want to do delicious things

The most delicious things in life

I know, sir, but my wife is in Upper Egypt

Must you do it with your wife?

Most women aren't that nice

- Take your hand off, sir! - Calm down, Abdo!

People are looking at us

Act casual

No way!

Abd Rabo!

What?

Have you lost your mind? Do you want to make a scandal?

I can hurt you if I want

But it isn't my way. Where are you going now?

Anywhere I like

This is improper and irreligious! Heaven and Earth shake because of it!

Stop it!

Crash at my place tonight

and leave in the morning

Let's go!

What's with the tenants? They have ho sense of responsibility!

Why don't you close the door of the elevator after you leave?!

This is intolerable!

Hello, Mr Hatem. Someone left the elevator door open

Who's this?

Indifference has prevailed, Zaki Pasha

- I know. Who's this? - He's with me

I see! With you!

Frankly, he's a strong one

- Go up and bring the elevator, son - When Hatem Bey tells me

Tell himto go upstairs and bring the elevator

Don't worry, he'll go upstairs and come down safely

OK, Pasha

Go on up

He went like an arrow!

What a sprint!

Like a tiger!

What youth!

You deserve everything good. Have a great night, Hatem Bey

Nights are great for some people and bad for others

Come in

Don't be shy

- Is that man a real Pasha? -No

His father was a Pasha and was a Minister three times

- What does he do? - Nothing

He's living off some properties his father left him

He's a loser. An antique, as you saw

Adrunkard and a flint

No, not an antique... second-hand goods!

Make yourself at home, I'll be right back, have a seat

Thank you, sir

You can't sleep in those clothes

I'm not used to going to bed so early

But if you're tired, go ahead. The bedroom's through there

Don't worry about me, sir

When you go to bed, I'll sleep on the floor here

I'm used to that

- Drink, Abdo - What's this? Hibiscus?

Hibiscus!

Just taste it

It's not hibiscus

But it's the same color

You told me you'll finish your military service in two months?

Yes, sir

- What'll you do after that? - I'll go back to my village

You're the first man I know to come to Cairo then return to his village

To find a job here, I need a big connection

- I'll be your connection, Abdo - God bless you

As I told you,

I live all alone, as you can see

I've devoted myself to making other people happy

But who deserves it?

Drink

Let's watch something deep on TV

There is nothing nice on TV at night

Oh, God!

What's this, sir?

- Very deep, right? - Right

You're married, right, Abdo?

Yes, sir

But my wife isn't that good

- You sleep with her a lot? - Don't embarrass me, sir

It's not embarrassing at all

When I go home on leave, I do it 2 or 3 times a day

3timesa day!

You're a stud!

Frankly, she refuses sometimes and says she's tired

But I force her

- Thank you - Thanks

Thanks

Go and watch the serial, dear Tamir.

Go!

It's a legal marriage and not a common-law one, God forbid

We heard you're a pious, God-fearing man

Praise be to God

Suad will live with me in Cairo, her son will stay with you

She'll visit him whenever she can and don't worry about his expenses

What do you say, Suad?

Whatever you say, Boss Hamido

Suad's jewelry will cost 10,000 LE, her dowry 20,000 LE

and her deferred dowry 5000 LE. I want nothing from you

OK; anything else, Haj?

This marriage must remain a secret

If my wife gets wind of it...

I'll divorce Suad!

Suppose she finds out from someone else?

I won't give the game away, 50 ho word can ever slip out

Then I agree

Anything else, Haj?

The most important thing:

God has granted us both with kids 0 there's no heed for more

It's my main condition

Just say yes

Of course, Haj

I'll prepare our house within a week

We'll marry and travel that very night

How about some joyful sounds!

Fanous!

Good morning, Pasha

- What're those suitcases? - Your sister sent them, sir

Fix me some coffee

Your sister's changed the lock and fixed bolts on the door

The boy who brought the suitcases told me so

Yes, Dawlat

We're family

Things shouldn't come to this

Why are you sitting so far back?

We're alike, our poverty shows. So we should stay at the back

I sat with them at first

but didn't like what they were saying

What were they saying?

Talking about their moms and dads. Their fathers are Deputy Ministers,

engineers or judges. One of the moms is a UN expert

I was afraid they'd ask my dad's job

50 I came to sit with you

What's your father's job?

He's a janitor

A caretaker. And yours?

A cobbler

We have a little shoe shop

If they knew that the university

accepted the sons of doormen and cobblers,

they'd have given up

How will we get along with such people?

We'll find people like us

Praise be to Allah, the Merciful

He taught us the Qur'an

He created man and taught him to speak

The sun and the moon obey Him

The stars and the trees bow before Him

He raised the Heavens

He made the scales so that we do not out-measure them

Open the gates of Heaven to me

- May God hear you - And you too

God granted you a sweet, pious voice

One should be pious for Allah's sake

- You always come to the mosque? - Thank God

- What's your name? - Taha El-Shazli

First year, brother Taha?

I'm Khaled Abdel-Reheem, a junior and an Upper-Egyptian

- Seems you're a city boy - I live here in Cairo

- Where? - Downtown

Then you're from the upper class

Only if you mean up-on-the-roof class

I live on a rooftop downtown

Better than the rooftop in @ no man's land!

Be thankful

I always thank God with all my heart and soul

at times of ease or diversity

How wonderful!

You're pious and God-fearing by nature, brother Taha

- Where do you go for Friday Prayers? - A small mosque near my home

Come on! Friday Prayers shouldn't be performed in little mosques!

And praying in faraway mosques

pays you more

Tell me which mosque you pray in and I'll pray with you,

even if it's at the end of the world

Listen, Taha, your enthusiasm to fulfill your religious obligations

shows how faithful you are

I'll lead you to the right path

God willing

I'll follow you

Am I late? Forgive me

Come, don't be afraid!

Mr Talaal

I'need 20 LE. Could you dock it off my salary

10 LE is enough

Wait here till your clothes dry then follow me to the store

Lock the door

10 LE, scumbag!

- Here, Pasha - What's this?

Le Caire, Mr Hatem Rasheed's paper. He sent us a copy

Leave it there

What's all that commotion?

Haj Azzam Pasha is redecorating. Please talk to him

- Talk to who? - Haj Azzam Pasha!

When did he become a Pasha?

I saw him myself polishing shoes outside the Bar Americain

Come on, Zaki Pasha, he owns half of Suleiman Pasha St!

- Don't you believe me? - I believe you, Pasha

How could a shoeshine have all that property, money and stores?

If I knew, I'd tell you 50 you could stop being a servant

Go and tell him Zaki Pasha wants him to stop the noise

And see who's at the door

Azzam Pasha!

Does Zaki El-Desouki live here?

You mean Zaki Pasha

OK; don't be upset

I'ma court clerk and have a subpoena for the Pasha

Will you receive it or bring the Pasha to receive it?

I've become "demented" and "crazy"

Whoever says that about you

is the demented and crazy one, Pasha

My sister Dawlat is suing me for incompetence

She says I'm demented and incompetent

I cant insult her, she's your sister

Dawlat hasn't only become a tyrant, she's lost her mind too

Aren't you scared walking all alone?

How're you, Taha?

Fine. What's with you?

I'm exhausted from work

I stand on my feet all day

and can't wait to get home for a good sleep

I wanted to check on you

Tell me, how are you doing at university?

I feel like a stranger there

Taha, this is no longer our country, we've become strangers

What are you getting at, Bosaina?

Listen to me

Be patient till you finish university then go to the Gulf

- On one condition - What is it?

You go with me

Who knows what tomorrow will bring?

I sense that your feelings towards me have changed

I haven't changed, Taha. The world around me has

I can't even talk, Taha

What is it, dear?

What is it, Abdo?

I'm afraid, sir

- Afraid of what, Abdo? - Of God's punishment

Why? Have you done something wrong?

Everything I do with you is wrong!

Liquor day and night, sex...

I even quit praying!

I heard a sheikh talking about the punishment of Lot's people

We're shaking the throne of Heaven and Earth, causing an earthquake!

You're a simple Upper Egyptian

You think we're the only ones who do this?

No. There are a lot of us

Here in Egypt, in Europe, in America, in the Gulf...

Everywhere!

What's wrong if a man loves another?

God's very Generous and Merciful

Let me put your mind at ease

How, sir?

Do you know what the most sacrilegious act is?

Adultery

Sleeping with a woman who isn't your wife. It harms lineage

If a lover's child is declared as her husband's

or if the baby is gotten rid of, that's very wrong

But if a man loves another man, what's the problem?

What's the problem?

What's the problem?

What do you mean?

Men don't get pregnant, Abdo

Take this roll of material and put it there

Careful or you'll drop the scissors!

Take this downstairs

Very good

And you...

Hello, pretty one!

How're you, Miss Bosaina?

Won't you wish Malaak 2 good evening?

How're you, Osta Malaak?

That's better

I have a job for you that'll benefit both of us

What kind of job?

I want you to convince Talaal to take blouses from me

My work is excellent and I'll give you a commission

Who aml to convince him? I'm just a shop assistant

not a business woman

All business should have an incentive

Wait for me here for a second

A present from me to you

Just your size

I don't take presents from anyone

We'll do business together

Forget it, he takes the goods from big workshops

- I'm sure you can convince him - How come??

I've been in this profession since I was 6 years old

I've been living here all my life and know what Talaal's doing

and where exactly

And you're pretty

You're a pretty, young, fresh girl

and Talaal can never say ho to you

You're an impolite jerk!

You call me impolite for telling the truth?

Look me in the eye and tell me you've never been

to the storeroom with Talaal

- You're a lowlife scumbag! - Then you did

We'll talk again!

Enough, Haj!

I won't take much of your time

I know how busy you are

I'm at your service, Haj

Don't be upset with me

I've been so busy these past weeks that I couldn't see you

I appreciate it, Mr Kamal

How can I help you?

You must've inquired about me after I'd asked to see you

And I discovered you're a good, honest man

Thank God

It's all thanks to Allah

You know...

I want to serve my country

I want to serve my neighborhood

where I work, where I was brought up

We all want the same

But each has his way

I've decided

to run for the People's Assembly for the Qasr El-Neel constituency

- Qasr El-Neel! - Yes, they're my people

Know what we call that constituency in Parliament?

Apiece of cake

- I don't understand - Understand what, Haj?

It means that it's a nice, easy constituency

With no problems or slums

You won't be hassled by people all the time

There are no demands for apartments and jobs

No one to nag you and turn your life into living hell!

- Where were you born? - In Upper Egypt

We'll find you a constituency there

But I left long ago and no one knows me there

- As for Qasr El-Neel. .. -Hang on

Frankly, it's already spoken for

So it's mere talk and can change

Let me think it over

The sooner, the better, sir

It'sa "rabbit", right, Mr Kamal?

Yes, you like the drawing?

Very good. But a "rabbit" is a lot of money

There's nothing in it for me, it goes to a lot of people

I have more than enough

I know, sir

I want you to know who has the Qasr El-Neel constituency

- Who, sir? - Abo Rehab. You know him

- The "El-Reda Wal-Nour" stores? - Exactly

But he's with the Muslim Brotherhood

and there is no agreement between you and the Muslim brotherhood

No one can prevent him from running

We're in a democratic country

If he runs, he might win

He's ruining the market, selling at 50%, even 25%

He has lots of money and might buy people's votes

Running is easy

Anyone can run and no one will stop them

But we decide who wins

I'm not talking about vote-rigging

But we've studied the Egyptian people

The Egyptian people cling to the government like it's their mother

even if the government is loose

It's our game

I know... Look, this is our first deal together

Instead of a "rabbit", draw a "chick" instead

Listen, Haj...

I can only draw two things

Either a "rabbit"

or a "turkey”

What do you say?

Itsa deal. Let's recite the Fatihah

Praise be to beneficent, merciful Allah...

I want some money next week. Cash!

Amen. Congratulations, Haj

Why is this wine white and that one red?

When you eat fish you drink white wine

And the red's with the meat?

How clever!

- Why all this, Hatem? - We're celebrating

Celebrating what?

Finishing military service and going home in peace?

We're celebrating your new freedom

I have another surprise for you

You won't go back to your village

Why, Mr Hatem? What about my wife and son?

They'll come here

I found you an apartment

It's on the rooftop and the tenant went back to his village

So I've rented it for your wife and son

It's not as you imagine

The lawsuits between you and your sister will take time

She's suing you for incompetence

and it could take years

You've also filed to prove you have the right to the apartment

That could take a year or two

Really, Mr Fekri?

It's our country and we know it well, Mrs Christine

- What now, counselor? - I'll tell you

but don't tell anyone I told you

Have some thugs get into the apartment by any means

even if they break down a wall

Just get into the apartment

Then just move back in normally

Of course she won't let it go. She'll press charges

But the case would take time and she might die

before there's a verdict

- Is there no other way? - It's the only way

I can't do it

But your sister's a very evil woman

We're Abdel-Aal Pasha's kids and can't do that to each other

- But you're the victim - Even so...

Dawlat's my sister and that's that

And I'm not in the street

Where's my coat?

Where to, Zaki Pasha?

Zaki, I've never seen you like this

Why are you letting yourself get depressed?

Why did I never marry?

I'd have had some kids

They'd have changed my life

Sure, you were always there for me

But I was stupid

I didn't marry you because I was afraid I'd betray you

I'm too easily tempted

You'd have ended up hating me

and I couldn't have stood that

I'd have forgiven you

I don't think so

My problem is that I didn't see the important things in front of me

Or I saw only them once it was too late

I'll go now

I'll give you a ride

I've never hurt anyone. The only one I hurt was myself

Even the women I've known saw me by their own choice

They always left my house very satisfied

That's why God will judge me in a merciful way

He'll give me a huge discount

20%

30%

50%

Make it 100%

You are merciful and forgiving

Avery good day to you

May the Virgin Mary bless you

What do you want?

Not even a "good morning"?

Don't be angry. Your secret won't be revealed

- I don't have any secrets - Clearly not

I'll do you a favor as a neighbor

and for the sake of your dear mom

Really?

- What does Talaal pay you per month? -250 LE

In that case, you must be stupid and, by Jesus, that's no joke!

I've a job for you that pays 600 LE per month

A decent job, very decent

And if it's not, you can make it decent

Our rulers claim they apply the Islamic Shari'a

and democracy

and God knows they're lying

The Islamic Shari'a is inactive

in our plagued country!

The government makes profit from selling liquor,

gambling and tourism

What's worse is that the government gives its employees

their salaries from that money

and feeds the people from ill-gotten money

and so we get cursed!

I'm saying it loud and clear

We don't want our nation to be democratic,

socialist or layman

We want our nation to be Islamic...

Peace be with you

- How're you, Bosaina? - As you see, I'm hanging laundry

- Where were you? - At Friday Prayers

It finished over 2 hours ago

I pray in a faraway mosque. The Imam gives long sermons

Religion facilitates

Find a nearby mosque to pray in

What're these books?

One of them is for you

- Agift? - God willing

- Will you grow your beard? - I'll never shave it again

Here's your book

Keep it, my hands are wet

You read it. I hate reading

I don't like the way you're acting

You're not my guardian!

- Wise up! - Let go of me or I'll scream!

Has it come to this?

Listen, Taha, in short, we're finished

It's "the end", as they write in movies!

Each has his own path

You have a religious beard, I wear short skirts

We won't get along together

Adgift, my foot! "Wear a veil before Judgment Day'"!

I wish you'd stay over for the night 50 I'd feel I'm like all other wives

Come on, Suad

We're officially married

Staying over isn't a proof of my love

- What're you doing? - Shining your shoes

No, there are rules to shoe-shining. Let me show you

Watch!

Wow! You're like a professional shoeshine

Shining shoes is my hobby

Thank you

But when you go to the other house you get dressed to the nines

The other house is the original

How odd! You mean this house is a copy?

That one's gold and this one's fake?

Stop your nagging, Sued

The gold is right here

She's the mother of my kids, and my kids are grown up now

Then speak kindly

I'm sorry

I want 10 ask for a favor

Whatever you say, darling

I want to go to Alexandria

Why?

I haven't seen my son for months

I miss my folks, I miss the sea breeze

I've been cooped up here: kitchen, TV, bedroom...

Don't go to Alexandria alone

Then come with me

I can't leave Cairo for an hour these days

Let's go in the afternoon and return the same night

Or let me go alone

Neither one nor the other. Remember we have a deal

- I have another solution - Go ahead

My brother brings my son so I can see him and play with him

That wasn't our deal

Anyway, you play with me

Isn't playing with me more fun?

Bye

God bless you

Listen, Taha, love is neither shameful nor unlawful

True, lawful love is allowed

The Prophet loved the lady Aisha, peace be on her

And as you said, your love for that girl is true

I've known her since she was a kid, playing on the rooftop

We've grown up, dreamt, felt happy and felt sad together

I swear she's the only woman I've ever wanted

God knows how I feel for you

I never want to see you upset

But a true believer should always be an optimist

After the rain comes the sun

She locked the door and threw away the key

Maybe your destiny is with someone else

She's not the only woman in the world

Forget about her and don't be upset

Do you prefer the love of a woman or of Jihad?

To love a woman or to love God?

God bless you, our sheikh. My heart and mind is at ease

Let's concentrate on what's important

Tomorrow is a special day

I want you to have aleading role in it, Taha

Islamic! Islamic! Neither Western nor Eastern

- Exaltation! - Allah is Almighty!

This is Miss Bosaina El Sayed

Daughter of the late El Sayed Antar who lived on the rooftop

Say hello to the Pasha, Bosaina

- Good evening, Pasha - Hello

From today, this office will be your responsibility

What's this? Who are these people?

What do they want from us?

What did we do to deserve this?

You took my boy away!

He's Taha Mohammad El-Shazli We found religious books at his place

Get him down

I promise no one will touch you again

and that you'll be released

Just tell us the organization you belong to

I don't... I don't belong to any

We found books that all the organizations use

in your room. Why do you have them?

Owning books isn't illegal

It's knowledge

You shouldn't lie to someone who's trying to help you

You're insulting my intelligence

and I hate that

I was just on the demo

In your apartment block

there are big-shot tenants

Know any of them?

I know them all, sir

Then you must know Mr Hatem Rasheed

Of course, sir

What do you know about him?

He's a respectable journalist, editor-in-chief of the Le Ca/re

What else?

That's all, sir

See how you are lying

We know everything about everybody

We know things you don't know about your mother and father

You know your mom was married before she married your father?

- It's the first time I've heard that - Ask her when you get out

and see what she tells you

Let's talk about Hatem Rasheed

He's...

He's gay

Good!

What does that mean?

You just said you know everything, sir

OK, Taha, we'll do to you what's done to Hatem Rasheed

We have people who do that very well

What do you say?

Take his clothes off!

- Hello, Pasha - Where's Fanous?

Went to his brother Malaak

The apartment smells fresh since you came, Bosaina

- You're so kind, Pasha - What's new?

I paid the electric bill, Mrs Christine called

and your barber asked when to come

Mr Fekri the lawyer called to say the session was postponed

He'll tell you everything later

Is someone suing you?

It's nothing. Just my sister Dawlat

Asister suing her brother?

- She should lean on you - She'll wise up one day

Hope so

- Need anything? - No, you can go, Bosaina

- Take care - Goodbye

Bosaina, you're an excellent girl and I want you with me always

I'll stay as long as you're pleased with me

You're very generous and you treat me so well

Don't get me wrong, Bosaina

God created beauty

50 that people would see, love and respect it

- What do you mean, Pasha? - I mean you're pretty

But you need an artist's touch. Will you let me see to it?

I vowed never to refuse you, Pasha

Can you change your hairdo?

How'd you like it to be?

Go look in the mirror

It's the style of a Pasha

Go home, you're late

Welcome back, son

Thank you, our sheikh

We've been worried about you

You were released a while ago

I've locked myself away since then

I only came out to see you

Thank God you got the message

Did you talk?

If I had, they wouldn't have released me

and you'd be with me

God bless you, son

You don't know what happened to me

I can imagine

It was beyond imagination

Infidels are capable of anything

- Even Infidels wouldn't do that - Calmdown

Good evening, sir

- What'd you like to drink? -Tea

2 teas, please

I want you to forget and go back to your college and study

What studies?

It's over

As I've been loyal and honest with you, treat me the same

And as I've fulfilled your demands

I want you to help me fulfill mine

If we can, son

- I want revenge! - The torture was so bad?

- They raped me - Shut up! Not another word!

Don't tell it to anyone else!

People are looking at us!

What's that you're wearing, father of Wael?

It's @ present from the bey, God bless him

- Are stripes the fashion now? - I couldn't refuse him

He's been very generous to us

Why don't you answer? Am I talking to myself?

I don't like that man

- We live in luxury thanks to him - Damn his luxury!

You smell differently

Are you sniffing me, Hedeya?

In that case, sniff me well!

Shut up!

This place is not on any map

Not even the devil can come here

Long time no see, Sheikh Shakir

I come when it's urgent

This is Taha El-Shazli whom I told you about

God willing, he'll feel welcome

This is Sheikh Belal, head of the camp

and in charge of training and execution

He'll take care of you

until you finish training

- Welcome, Minister - How are you, Haj?

- My eldest son Fawzi - How do you do, Fawzi?

- Can you move? -Yes

- OK, come with me - What is it, sir?

This table isn't secure. We'll need a better one

Security measures

By the way, your inquest in yesterday' session was good

I asked for it to be aired on TV. You can watch yourself

- Please, sir. Give to your uncle - That's very good

Give him meat fingers, they won't give you heartburn

- I forgot to congratulate you, Haj - Thank you, but for what?

- The car dealership - I hope so

It's mere words. The Japanese are still checking and investigating

- See your father, Fawzi? - We haven't signed anything yet

Come on, boy!

Listen...

I'm Kamal El-Fouli and I know everything

-It's clear, sir - God keep us friends

May things end well

That dealership will give you 200 million LE per year

You'll bite off more than you can chew, Haj

If you chew it alone, it'll choke you

Meaning?

- We want 25% - 25% of what?

Of the profits, of course

And who is "we"?

Come on, Haj

You're a man of the world

Meaning?

I have people with me who are in even higher places

They prefer to stay anonymous

Consider me a representative

Why are you watching this nonsense?

Be patient, I want to see things getting worse

You're young and don't understand

That respectable Parliamentarian used to be a shoeshine

You drink too much

It's still early. People drink at night

- I'm Killing time. Want one? - No, thanks

- You never had a drink? - Never

I've learned from the movies on TV

- Want me to drink that stuff? - I'll give you an idea

It's very bitter at first

but then you feel happy

I don't care

- What a pity! - Not at all

The pity is, foreigners and us are so different

Foreigners appreciate and enjoy liquor

While we appreciate hash. It's a big difference

I don't do either of them. You live like foreigners, sir

If you hold me dear, don't call me "sir"

It's true I'm an old man but you don't need to remind me

- Call me Zaki - I'll call you Zaki Pasha

OK. Anyway, living like foreigners isn't new to me

I was one of them. I learnt and lived in Paris

I know Paris as well as I know Cairo

- They say Paris is beautiful - Beautiful? It's the whole world

- Why didn't you stay there? - I was a fool

It's not that but it's my lot and destiny

- Seems you want to go abroad - I wish

- Where'd you like to go? - Anywhere but here

- You hate your homeland? - I have no reason to love it

It's true you're poor, but poverty's never affected patriotism

Patriotism! I'm not the only one who wants to leave

If we were at the time before they invented passports and visas

everyone here would've gone abroad

Those who don't value their country, value nothing

You live like a king there

What are your problems? Your sister had a fight with you?

Just look at those who can't feed their kids

The people who are roaming the streets looking for jobs

The people who must put up with insults and humiliation

You only know one street

Go elsewhere, you'll see real life

Egypt's so harsh on its kids now they all want to leave

Not because they hate it but they can't take its cruelty

Why did you stand up?

To vent my anger

Couldn't you do it while sitting?

I've caused all your nagging by talking about a sad subject

I'll get you totally out of that mood

I'll play you the beautiful voice of the French singer Edith Piaf

Heard of her?

I don't know French at all

That doesn't matter

The important thing is to feel it

and to interpret...

its music

This song reminds me

of the old days

It's about a girl standing in the middle of a crowd

The crowd pushes her away towards a stranger

She feels something for him and wants to live with him...

for the rest of her life

Then the crowd comes back

and sweeps her away

and she becomes lonely again

What a loss!

Come here

Your eyes are very beautiful

No one's told me that before

Be careful, we have to stay friends

Sure we will

I've started to like the smell of cigarettes

Not all cigarettes smell nice

I know it's stuffed with hash. Isn't it against religion?

Think I'd do that? If it was, I wouldn't touch it

This stuff can't be much good. You're in a bad mood

I'm fine, but my head's full

Full of business

You know there are lots of big problems troubling me

What if I tell you something that'd make you walk on air?

Go ahead, you might make my day

I'm...

I'm 2 months pregnant

What?

May you go to hell! I don't need this!

We had an agreement!

Agreements don't apply to this!

It's God's will and you can't tell God you had an agreement!

Get rid of it!

I don't need it and neither do you!

I need it, it's a part of me. You want to cut a part of me?

If you don't get rid of it, I'll divorce youl

Divorce me and God's law will judge between us!

- Welcome back, dear - Hello

Think I was abroad or something?

- Where were you? - At work

It's nice work! The nicest!

- We had a deal, right? -Yes, and I'm up to it

You help me and I'll help you. So what's the deal?

Come inside 50 you know what I want exactly

Have you gone mad?

It's business and not a joke

That thing called Zaki Pasha is over

He's got one foot in the grave!

When he dies, Fekri Abdel-Shaheed will take the apartment

This contract is a partnership between me and Zaki Pasha

When he dies

the apartment will be mine

I want him to sign every paper and that's easy

Let him sign while he's drunk or in your arms, I don't care

You shame your religion

You're not a Copt. You're a devil hiding among Copts!

I'll give you 5000 LE

When you give me the contract signed by the Pasha

I think that's fair

whether I'm a Jew or a Copt or a Muslim

Think of your mother and siblings

You deserve this money

You might die before Zaki Pasha

At least I'd have tried

Take the contract

Suppose I got ZaK El-Desould's signature

How do I know you'll pay me?

- Cash on delivery - 50 no money, no contract?

I don't go back on my word

Take the money in your hand before I take the contract

Who is it?

Help me, Abd Rabbo! Your son's feverish and vomiting!

Quick! Your son's in a bad way!

Let the bey call an ambulance if he really cares for you!

Get the boy and meet me downstairs!

What are you standing there for? Move it!

It's a disaster!

He'll be fine. Don't worry, Abdo

Your son will get the best care

How is he, sir?

Be strong, God grant you patience

My son's been taken from me!

My son! My son!

Did you talk to your sister?

- Yes, Haj - You put sense into her?

You're a man who loves to hear the truth

I'm her brother and can convince her but its against God

What about the deal we made?

Any deal against God's law is void

- Is that your final say? - Her final say, Haj

Thank you. You did your best, Boss Hamido

You'll just make your train

Boss Hamido!

I hope you'd reconsider

and think about where your best interests lie

It's you who heed to reconsider, Haj

We can't go against God's laws

But no one knows

where God's will might lead them

Quiet, we're your sisters!

Who are you?

We have a little errand

After that car, we'll manufacture bigger ones

Welcome, Minister

- Congratulations, Haj - God bless you, Mr Kamal

Photo, Mr Kamal

I need to see you urgently

Name the time and the place

Now. Let's find somewhere to sit

Please

- You're mistaken - God forgive me!

I'ma man of my word!

You're stalling, the contract's been with you for 2 months

It's a partnership for 25%. That concerns the Japanese

If they think I'm fooling them, they might cancel

Come on, Azzam!

You think 'ma merchant?

I can do anything

Everyone knows who you are and what you can do

Know the saying?

The one that goes:

"Whoever put the mule in the minaret,

can get it down"?

Mule?!

What do you mean?

As I helped you into Parliament, I can also help you out

And with a scandal too

You're threatening me, Mr Kamal?

I'm not a nobody, you know!

You've grown tough

You started it, Mr Kamal

Don't count on your Parliamentary immunity

You could lose it in two sessions

Your hair too

My hair's fine

You may think you're safe

but I know of a little secret

Were you in the army?

Your file has no mention of you doing military service

What if I quit Parliament?

I've gained nothing from it

Without it you'd be naked in a crowded street

Let me remind you, I'm not alone

I'ma representative

I'm the kindest one among them

Don't be stubborn

Let's all sit together and reach an understanding

Who is "all"?

You, me and the people you represent

Let me explain to them, they might understand me

Seems you're useless

Mr Karnal, I joined Parliament with my own money

And when I leave it...

I'll put it down to profit and loss

The boss of the Japanese wants to go

Before listening to the singer?

Come with me, Mr Kamal

No, you go listen to your singer

Good night

Same to you

What is it?

There are limits for everything. I know when to say no

I swear there's something between you and hex

It sounds like she's singing for you

She's singing for the both of us

No woman in the world can forget the one she loves

You're right

But Christine and I were together the way foreigners are

Our love became friendship

It's hard for lovers to become enemies

even if they're separated

If 1 find someone exactly like you, but younger,

I'll marry him right away

You'll never find someone like me, my pretty woman

I'm the last of the respectable men

Don't ask me to sing again

I can listen to you all night

Christine... you're my sweetest memories

I think you've drunk too much

That's true, please take the bottle from him, only you can do it

She lives on the roof

Welcome back, Mr Hatem

It's not like you to be so late for work

Thanks

I was invited to a party in Alexandria with the Prime Minister

What is it, Shazli?

Here you are, sir

What's this?

The keys to the kiosk in Nasr City

And this is the key to the room on the rooftop

Abd Rabbo took his wife and left the building, sir

May God guide you to the right path

Hassan bey

Madame Rasheed

Professor Hassan Rasheed

Madame Hassan bey

is with the French Consul

Hatem, get out!

"Hatem, get out!"

Atypical...

Parisian whore

Leave ldrees alone! You never loved me as he did

If you had just looked at me!

You never played with me!

Idrees, what are you doing?

You just let the servants play with me

What's that black look for?

Thanks

Thanks a bunch

You once asked me

why I hadn't stayed in Paris

and I told you it was my lot

But that wasn't the truth

This country was better than Paris

New fashions appeared here before they appeared in Paris

The streets were spotlessly clean and were washed everyday

The stores were fancy and people were polite

Let's continue this upstairs. People are looking at us

Why should they?

Let them look at our ruined country

Let them look at the buildings that were better than Europe's

Now they've become dumps upstairs and deformed downstairs

This is the age of deformity!

I'm the oldest tenant here!

I've lived the best days of my life here with the best people

From the princesses up to you, my princess

Let's go upstairs and then say whatever you want

I'm the oldest tenant here!

The oldest!

I want a favor from you

Name it, ask for my eyes

Ask for Suleiman Pasha Street

I'm the oldest one in the building!

I applied for a 5000-LE loan

The bank wants a guarantor

I'll do it with pleasure

If I don't do it, who will?

Would you sign the papers?

You have a pen, perfect

What is it, Pasha?

- What is it? - I need to go to the bathroom

You'll be fine, Pasha, just fine

Come, come

You'll be fine, Zaki Pasha

I'm fine

Get up, getup

- What is it? - Where aml?

You were lucky you had a severe hemorrhage

Hemorrhage?

You bastards made me miscarry! I'll get you!

Help me, Hamido!

They gave me a forced abortion!

They killed my son!

They did it, Hamido!

Everything's predestined, Mrs Suad

Haj Azzam always keeps his word

You broke the agreement

You must face the consequences

May God punish you, your father and your whole family!

- Tyrants! infidels! - Mind your tongue. You were bleeding

50 we brought you to the best hospital

The Haj fears God and can't go against His laws

He's divorced you

You'll receive twice the normal alimony

Your brother has a check for 20,000 LE

The hospital bills are paid in full

All your belongings

will be sent to your home in Alexandria

What?

What is it?

Sorry, Haj Azzam, our job's always disturbing

It Colonel Hamdi Sha'ban, Narcotics Dept

- We have no narcotics - Ask your father

- You know I have immunity - We respect that

Why are you worried? Maybe they'll find nothing

What're you shooting?

No, they will

- Can I make a phone call? - It's your right sir

Yes, Pasha

Thanks a lot, Mr Armanious

Malaak Armanious, ma"am

Mr Malaak...

this is a little sum for your gallantry

You don't know me well, Mrs Dawlat. I have a workshop

I told you

because I fear for the reputation of a big family

I still need a more important service from you

At your disposal, ma'am

Taha, the sheikh wants you now

I wish I'd met you long ago

It wouldn't have worked

Why not?

I was a little kid, then

And you still are

Ackid full of femininity

kindness,

gentleness

and gallantry

I wish God would grant me a long life

50 I could spend it all with you

May God grant you a long life

I'm 65 years old

You could live to be 100

I heard on TV

that whoever loves life, life will love him back

That's possible

Zaki Pasha...

I love you because you respected me and cared for me

and you've never been mean

Let's travel

I'll get the land revenue in a week or two

and then we can go abroad

- Paris! - Paris

We'll see the restaurants, the stores,

the theaters and the museums

And run after one another in the woods outside Paris

I'm still a virgin

Come in, come in. Make yourself at home

Stop this debauchery! Enough filth, you dirty jerk!

What's this? How could you barge in like this?

We're the police

Do you have a warrant?

Don't tell me about my job

Your sister complained about you committing adultery in her house

My sister?

It's not her house, it's my office

She doesn't live here

She opened the door with her key

Anything to say, save it for the report

- They're caught in the act, officer -Yes

I'll show you hell!

It's an invasion of privacy

Invasion of privacy or of that whore?

Whore!

She's more honorable than you, lowlife bitch!

See that, Officer?

He insulted and hit me. It's another crime

Put it in the report

Calm down. We'll make a full report

Arrest them like that!

Neither of us will go out naked! Over our dead bodies!

Stay away!

Come on...

Come on...

Come to me...

ldrees...

Gently, gently...

Sit down, Azzam

I heard you confessed before they found any drugs

They'd have found it

So you know that we know everything about you

Dealerships, cars, shoe stores

couldn't earn you all that money

We've known from the start

Your file has everything. What'll you do?

I'll sign the contract

There are new clauses

I accept them

I saw the photos

of Narcotics making the bust

They take photographers with them

We don't need scandals

I stopped everything after you called me

How'll we get out of this fix?

It's over

After inspecting the heroin packs

it turned out to be a powder for polishing cars

50%, Azzam.

Sign the contract in my son's office

Mr Kamal!

Congratulations

Why?

We're partners in everything, right?

The saying's true: dance for the monkey when it rules

It's OK for a monkey to dance for another monkey!

- Isn't the Pasha going out? - I don't know

Thank God, all is calm

You'll be opposite

See the guard? As soon as he gets out, shoot him

- How will I know him? - When he comes out, I'll honk

Good evening

- Where is Gamal street? - Which end?

- Garden City - Where exactly?

Near the sugar refinery

The second street on the left

- The car's on its way - I see it

Hurry and get the car

- Do you know where ... - I don't

I'll get Tahal

Cover me!

I have the right to use the phone

Stop making noise, Romeo

You should be ashamed of yourself

He looks like the guy on the tea packs

There's a book called "The old man returns to his youth"

He's the old man

There are laws in this country, Zaki Pasha

What's happening is a crime in the full sense of the word!

I'll talk to the Deputy Minister

to tell himwhat his young officers do to respectable people!

Who are you?

Fakhri Abdel-Shaheed, the attorney

Have you heard of me, son?

They insulted me and this poor girl too

Very good

We'll sue these officers

for slander

Now, Dawlat?

How could you do this to your brother?

Anyway, the law will give you your rights back, Zaki Pasha

What we have seen tonight is the best of bad things

There are disasters worst than this

I cant believe the evil hat Dawlat has in her heart

And where did she get the office key?

We must forget what happened today

We must forget our humiliation

or we'll die from frustration

All my life, my share of luck has always been minimal

Always

Come in, please

Over there

- Congratulations - Thank you

- "La vie en rose", Christine - Just for you