Ashraf Hamdi

May 9, 2016

Intriguing Things You Should Know About

Ashraf Hamdi

Versatile, talented and very much in the news; actor, writer and film-director Ashraf Hamdi co-stars with Nelly Karim in Cannes Film Festival 2016 entry Eshtebak (Clash). Nominated for the category Un Certain Regard, this will surely propel him further on his already stellar path. What more do you need to know about this man-to-watch?

• His role in Tareeky series last Ramadan made a great impact on viewers.

• Although he always wanted to be a screen-writer, director and actor, he actually graduated and worked in dentistry before studying acting in London.

• He honed his acting skills by learning to write scripts, this helped him to land auditions.

• He respects Leonardo Di Caprio, Ryan Gosling and Ethan Hawk for their pragmatism in balancing between independent and commercial films while pursuing their careers.

• He had his first international big role as an actor in the Italian film Flowers of Kirkuk, which was selected in the official competition of Rome Film festival, then widely released in Europe

• He directed the first Middle East Samsung commercial with stars Hazem Emam and Lara Scandar. It created a buzz for its unique style.

• He wrote the film A to B with Mohamed Hefzy, which was very well received in the Middle East.

• He has directed and shot several music videos for independent artists including the latest single for Osama El Hady ‘El Shams Mesh Baeeda’.

• He got a break after his role in the Egyptian psychological horror film Wingrave, a magazine article led to the job of presenting the morning show Sabahak Sokkar Zyada, which went on to be a great success not only in Egypt, but throughout the Middle East.

• He produced and conceived Dubbizle’s commercial campaign.

• The short video film Open Your City – Aswan, directed by Ashraf Hamdi, was created for Heineken.

• At the early age of thirteen he was actually performing in clubs and venues as part of a hip- hop group called Black Moon.

• His work in Aswan was featured as part of Egypt’s This is Egypt Tourism Campaign on a Times Square billboard in New York.

• His favorite holiday destinations are Greece and the USA.

• The most recent book he has read is Every Day by David Levithan.

• He enjoys pizza, waraa’ einab, and recently, quinoa salads.

• His worst habit is being so distracted he forgets to ask about people if they are not part of his daily routine.

Showcasing Egyptian Talent

May 9, 2016

The Arabian Cinema Awards 2016 Launch to Overwhelming Acclaim

The time was ripe; Egypt has just rolled out its first event to recognize achievements in the local film industry. Part of a rich history of film production dating from the founding of Studio Misr back in the 1920’s, Egypt’s stars, directors, screen-writers, cinematographers, make-up artists, and wardrobe designers have had to sit back and watch the world celebrate each year’s cinematic offerings in glamorous star-studded occasions around the globe, with a mere few of them being lucky to get a look-in as foreign movie nominees.

Now, with advent of the annual Arabian Cinema Awards, not only our stars, but also the unsung heroes who contribute so much behind the scenes to bring the final product to our screens get the nod they so well deserve.

Cairo East Magazine sat with event co-organizer and industry veteran, Amr Koura of Creative Arab Talent to get the inside story on how it all came about. >>

CEM: Amr, how did this very first Arabian Cinema Awards come into being?

AK: It had become obvious that our local film industry deserved an event on par with the major film industry award ceremonies held in key locations around the world each year. Co-organizer of the event, Maged Hosny of Dear Guest, had wanted to create this for quite a while, so when we met at one of his well-known Dear Guest ceremonies a few years ago, the seed of the idea started to take root. It was the combination of his event-planning expertise and my in-depth knowledge of the television and film industry, coupled with my extensive network of key people in their fields that helped it become a reality. I must admit, in the end the time frame was tight; from the day we actually put our plan into action to the moment we rolled out the red carpet it was only three to four months.

What were your objectives when the planning got under way?

Both Maged and I strongly felt that recognition was long overdue for members of the film community in Egypt, right across the board. Importantly, it had to be given in an event with integrity, something that was not merely a ‘rubbing of shoulders’; something that could bring a clearer focus onto all the people needed to make a film or series, as well as showing works of 2015 that had exhibited a level of excellence throughout a range of disciplines.

The event has been widely acclaimed as a notable success, what do you attribute this to?

We set out with three main things in mind. Firstly, to create a credible award occasion, based on sound principles. Even the nominees for each award were kept totally in the dark, as was the winner, until the magic moment when the envelope was opened.

Secondly, we were not looking for just glitz and glamour, even though we did have the right amount of that. We wanted an elegantly understated ambiance, where the true craft of the nominees would be able to shine.

Of course, having live television coverage on Al Nahar TV was most important; it elevated the sense of anticipation and brought the viewers into the excitement.

What influenced your choice of venue?

The Movenpick Media City theatre was the obvious choice for us, both in terms of location and facilities. Guests had comfortable seating in the right ambiance, conducive to relaxing and enjoying the program. It worked according to plan.

It seems that you have enjoyed a lot of positive feedback since the event, tell us more.

What can I say? A perfect score! The media reaction has been extremely positive, and we have had a flood of great post-event communication from people in the industry, both here in Egypt and abroad. Arab broadcasters have already expressed interest in cooperation with us, maybe by creating a sister event for the television industry, something akin to the Emmy Awards.

Even at this early stage we are receiving requests from leading stars to be included in the award giving ceremony at ACA 2017. Based on that alone I think we can look forward to something equally special next year. We look forward to welcoming participants from the whole MENA region, an exciting prospect.

Do you think the Arabian Cinema Awards will prove to be a good launch-pad for boosting the careers of up-and-coming actors, cinematographers and the like?

The response from industry professionals has been palpable. A lot of film crew have become interested in the event and accompanying exposure, it seems to be a motivating influence. By showcasing the skills of our people it boosts the image of our local production abilities no end. People may not have realised how the notable talent of many of our cinematographers and cameramen has been able to develop recently. Whereas in past years, film-editing had to be carried out overseas due to lack of the very specialised facilities required, with digital technological advances we are now able to handle this inside Egypt. Now we see our cinematographers turning out some truly spectacular camera work, equal to anything you would see outside of the country.

How easy, or difficult, is it for young people to break into the industry?

As you probably know, the protocol within the local industry is fairly entrenched. Introductions mean a lot, without them it is hard to get a look-in. That being said, anyone who gets in will have to prove their ability to be able to survive. The normal route would be through graduating from the High Institute of Cinema or the Egyptian Cinematographic Institute in Alexandria, along with having the right connections. The field is opening up these days however, as the industry itself is being revolutionized by fast-paced change.

Visual entertainment has never been in stronger demand than now, with the digital options available for viewing 24/7, in any situation. People are waking up to the realization that a new approach is needed to maximize the pool of talent Egypt has to offer. That is where an agent becomes essential for any actor, screenwriter, or film professional hoping to get a rung higher in the ladder of this competitive business. It’s all about the buzz.

What role does your company Creative Arabian Talent play in this?

A lot. An agent opens up avenues of opportunity through a very well established network of people in the industry, both locally and abroad. Without an experienced agent, it is difficult to grab the attention needed to land a good contract. It has been an alien concept for many actors here, many of which depend on their own efforts or the help of a manager. Initially even the producers were hard to win over; the informal structure of their casting was a habit hard to break. We proved our worth though when the demands of the Ramadan season came around.

Our company also adopts a managerial role, so it hasn’t taken long for the benefits to show. We can help organize schedules and take care of the miscellaneous things that block an actor’s time and energy, this frees them to do what they need to do: act!

Our subsidiary casting company has over 2,000 actors in its database, so it is easy to search when someone is needed for a role. The benefit to these hopefuls starting out is that once they get their first contract we are willing to sign them up and represent them.

Through our efforts and resources we expect greater demand for our Egyptian talent, both regionally and further afield, a win-win situation for all.

Arabian Cinema Awards Winners 2016

Life Achievement Award

Yousra

Best Film

Welad Rezk

Best Writing (Original Screenplay)

Daoud Abdel El Sayed – Kodorat Gheir Adeyya

Best Director

Tarek El Erian – Welad Rezk

Best Actor in a Leading Role

Nour El Sherif – Betawqeet El Qahera

Best Actress in a Leading Role

Mona Zaki – Aswar El Amar

Best Actor in a Supporting Role

Ahmed El Fishawy – Welad Rezk

Best Actress in a Supporting Role:

Amina Khalil – Sukar Mor

Best Music (Original Score)

Hisham Nazih – Aswar El Amar

Best Visual Effects

Tarek Refaat – Aswar El Amar

Best Cinematography

Mazen El Motagawel – Welad Rezk

Best Sound Mixing

Gomaa Abdel Latif – Qodorat Gheir Adeyya

Best Song

Tasaheel (Assala & Basata) – Welad Rezk

Best Film Editing

Ahmed Hafez – Sukar Mor

Best Decor

Onsi Abu Seif – Qodorat Gheir Adeyya

Best Costume Design (Styling)

Riham Assem – Welad Rezk

Best Hairstyling

Sayed Abdel Ghani – Sukar Mor

Best Makeup

Tarek Mostafa – Khareg El Khedma

Best Sound Editing

Salma El Barouni – Qodorate Gheir Adeyya

7 Qualities of Likable People

April 27, 2016

By Alyaa Sadek

They listen and ask questions

Listening to people and asking proper questions, rather than jumping into conversations and forcing your opinion, makes others feel more appreciated rather than being rushed.

They Don’t Compete

Having a conversation with them is easy and natural; it doesn’t feel like they are in a constant competition. Instead, they view conversations as opportunities to connect and create deeper relationships with others.

They’re Genuine Friends drinking coffee and having a serious chat Likeable people are proud to be themselves and never try to be something they aren’t. If they don’t know something, they admit it. If you don’t agree with a statement someone else has made, don’t grin and bear it. Instead, honestly admit that you don’t see it the same way.

They Give Compliments

Try to notice the special traits in others, this way you will avoid becoming a self-centered person. People will subconsciously remember what you said. It will also amplify their self-confidence and nourish their self-esteem.

They Put Away Their Phones

USA, New Jersey, Jersey City, Father and son (8-9) sitting at table

Nothing will turn someone off you like a mid-conversation email-check or even a simple quick glance at your phone. When you commit to a conversation, focus all your energy on it. It will give more meaning when you immerse yourself in it.

They Don’t Pass Judgment

To be likeable, you must try to be open-minded. It makes you more interesting and welcoming to others. This of course doesn’t mean you must condone their behavior, it simply means you quit passing judgment enough to see the world through their eyes.

They Smile

Smiling is the easiest way to make yourself and others feel better. It’s a well-researched phenomenon that people naturally mirror the body language of the person they’re talking to. So, smile at them during conversations and they will unconsciously return the favor and feel good as a result.

8 Best Snacks For Weight Loss

April 27, 2016

By Alyaa Sadek

Greek Yoghurt With Raspberries and Honey

This is the perfect mixture of sweet, smooth and filling. The combination includes fiber, protein, and healthy fats and is sure to fill you up for the next 5 hours. Combine a single container of Greek yoghurt, a cup of raspberries, and a half-tablespoon of honey.

Edamame

One cup of Edamame fulfills one-third of your daily fiber and protein needs. It also contains various amino acids and minerals such as calcium, zinc, copper, and manganese. On top of that, it’s low in fat and sugar. If you want them to last longer, suck them straight from the shells.

Grapes and Walnuts

Grapes are super sweet and have many health benefits and walnuts are even more filling. A cup of grapes and a handful of walnuts together are a power combo of natural sugars, healthy fats, fiber, and protein, all of which make for more long-lasting energy.

Mediterranean Hummus Tray

Your Mediterranean appetite diet tray will include cucumbers and hummus, which are rich in fiber and are low in fat. They are perfect for a snack that feels more like a meal. Your tray should include a cup of cucumber slices, about four kalamata olives, and 4 tablespoons of hummus.

Oatmeal With Fruits

Oats don’t just have to be for breakfast, they are a healthy treat for any time of the day. They are full of fiber and help regulate blood sugar levels. Why not try blueberries, they add natural sweetness and Vitamin C? Try a packet of plain microwave oatmeal topped with half a cup of blueberries.

Banana with Peanut Butter

Spread one tablespoon of peanut butter onto a banana. The carbs will give you a quick mood and energy boost, and the protein will allow the energy to last for a longer time.Also a 2013 study in the British Journal of Nutrition found that eating peanut butter in the morning helps limit your appetite throughout the rest of the day.

Apple Slices With Cheese

Apples can actually help to prevent you in gaining weight. According to research, cheese might too. Try pairing an apple with half an inch slice of sharp cheddar cheese; it’s definitely a great sweet and salty combination.

Pear Slices With Almond Butter

Pair your pear with a tablespoon of almond butter for a rich carb and protein combination. Pinch some cinnamon on top, a 2012 Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics study found that the spice helps stabilize blood sugar levels.

4 Sacrifices Every Entrepreneur Must Make

April 27, 2016

By Alyaa Sadek

To become a successful entrepreneur you must have what it takes to control your own destiny, and with some bright ideas, the right skill-set and firm dedication, you can build an enterprise that can become part of your legacy. Unfortunately, there’s a dark side, entrepreneurship is an unstable path towards success. Facing struggles, ups and downs, is a natural part of the process. Ultimately, no pain means no gain.

Stability

With big dreams comes great sacrifice, if you’re starting your new company, there’s no guarantee for success, even if you have a solid plan. You will experience a few hiccups until you recognize which direction your business is heading. Until then, if you haven’t sacrificed your well-paying, stable job to follow this bumpy road, you’ll probably need to reconsider your choices of being an entrepreneur. The more time and dedication you invest, the more successful you will be.

Work/Life Split

Having an ordinary life will be very difficult; your work life and personal life will be on the verge of collapsing. You will start thinking about business 24/7 even when you’re away from the office, or having dinner with your family. Becoming your own boss, you’ll learn how to function like a one-man show when you receive emails and urgent calls which will need your instant attention. Remember, it takes time to work out a balance, so be patient until the time comes.

Sleep

You will find that sacrificing some sleep in order to put your business on the right path is fundamentally important. No matter how hard you try, you’ll be pulling all-nighters just to keep the ship moving or getting up early to catch an important meeting. Your sleeping habits will probably change, so be prepared to make the best of them no matter how hard it gets and know that it will pass.

Comfort

Part of being an entrepreneur, and doing what others have not, is to have a leap of faith and to step out of your comfort zone. Being the boss of your own venture means everything falls when you are not physically and mentally available. You’re going to take decisions you’ve considered before, and delve into new subjects. The most successful people are the ones who dig into uncomfortable situations and come back stronger.

5 Expert Tips to Prevent Training Injuries

April 26, 2016

By Alyaa Sadek

Healthier lifestyles are becoming fundamental nowadays, so the more training the greater the risk of having an injury. Luckily, there are ways to prevent injuries that will promote safe and optimal techniques for your own wellbeing.

Start Slow

Going straight into intense cardio puts you at risk of falling or pulling a muscle. With any sport or exercise, it’s important to start your training session with light cardio. Five minutes of jogging or skipping rope is all you’ll need. It will help your muscles warm up, become flexible and ready for an intense workout, as well as improving your reflex action times, which will increase performance throughout the season.

Stretch

Stretching is different than warming up. It’s essential as it helps relax and elongate the muscle after warm-up, and after weight training. Stretching between sets can actually help build muscle by promoting muscular circulation. Finally, if you perform muscle-specific stretches at the end of your workout; you'll find that this will eliminate next-day soreness.

Don’t Overtrain

Overtraining your body harmfully impacts the body’s overall level of strength and conditioning. It can also drain your energy, which in turn delays progress. The solution to this is to cut back training sessions to 3-4 per week and keep the length to no more than an hour.

Don’t Under eat

If you don’t eat the right amount of nutrients your body needs, and continue to train hard and heavy, you’re more likely to get hurt. It’s best to not train heavily while you’re dieting. You should save the big weights and forced reps for non-diet periods.

Good Amount of Rest

The improvement of strength and muscle growth is linked to resting. It’s the time that muscles grow and repair. Set aside one to three days each week for light workouts, or even skip out on exercise entirely. This will allow your muscles to heal completely and eventually become stronger, which can prevent injuries during future workouts.

3 Mistakes To Avoid During the First Month Of Marriage

April 26, 2016

By Alyaa Sadek

In your first month of marriage, you’ll probably have a lot of thoughts going through your head. Things like what you should or should not do, but you probably won't give much thought to what you should avoid. So while you’re enjoying time with your new partner, here are 3 things you should avoid.

Avoid Inviting People Over

It’s tempting to start calling your friends and family for dinner or a party to see your new home. But it’s best to start by focusing on figuring out the boundaries of your marriage, and where your family and friends fit before inviting them over. It’s important to build a strong support system, but it’s healthier to nurture your partnership first by spending quality time while exploring your new life, without any interference

Avoid Making Major Life DecisionsYou probably don’t want to get yourself into another major life decision, especially that you’re just coming out of one of the biggest decisions of your life. We all know it feels like it’s the perfect time to start planning your future and home together, but try not to commit to another major decision before settling down. For example, don’t do any major renovations like retiling the floors or painting the walls, you’ll want your honeymoon phase to live through the first weeks of marriage and moving things around will surely break the Zen.

Avoid Having The Baby TalkYou and your spouse are probably on the same page when it comes to children. You both probably had a plan on this specific topic, so it’s best to not revisit it during the first month of marriage. It could create lots of pressure and will tie both of you to a goal-oriented feeling, which will limit your excitement and journey of getting to know each other. Start having new experiences as a couple before drowning into the responsibilities that come with getting married.

7 Spring Essentials For Your Wardrobe From Radwa El-Ziki

April 26, 2016

By Alyaa Sadek

Spring is just around the corner, it's time to let go of your winter layers and allow your body to breathe again. Rising fashion blogger Radwa El-Ziki shares her ultimate spring essentials with us.

Boyfriend Jeans

“What’s cool about the cut of boyfriend jeans is that they’re comfy and appear relaxed. So whether you pair them with a shirt, t-shirt, or a blazer, they will look effortlessly amazing.” For the perfect casual look, pair your boyfriend jeans with an oversized white t-shirt, and don’t forget to let your belt peek out.

Statement Accessories

“I would choose statement earrings, because they are very “in” right now, and I don’t like to overload on accessories.” Radwa recommends to either wear a pair of really nice earrings or statement rings.

Make Up

“In terms of make up, I think I would choose a really dark bronzing, a nude lipstick, and a good high-lighter from Mac.” These are the three products that she uses daily.

Shoes

“I would definitely opt for a change; this spring is all about big and colorful so try sneakers and colorful sandals”.

TopsA bold statement is needed for this time of the year. Fringe tops come with a wide variety of colors, prints and cuts to fit any look. “So, a fringe top will complement all the pants and skirts in your wardrobe”.

Cosmetics“Because of inconsistent weather, my skin tends to dry out. This is why I moisturize my body with Victoria’s Secret Shea butter lotion during springtime”.

Bags“ I would go for colorful leather bags, they can be matched with different looks and are great when paired with skinny or boyfriend jeans”.

5 Ways to Know Your Spouse Better

April 24, 2016

By Alyaa Sadek

When you get married and start settling down, you will think about ways to nurture your relationship. Marriage will need work, in order for you to grow and develop new facets to your relationship as a couple. To nurture a healthy marriage you must accept the fact that there is always more to learn. Use these five approaches to enrich the spark between you.

1- Have Deep Regular Conversations

One way to stay close and grow together is to have deep regular conversations about your feelings in all areas of your lives. This way you will solidify your mental and emotional connection, as well as have a greater idea of what makes your spouse happy.

2- Become Adventurous Together

Break the monotony of your usual routine by going out of your comfort zone. Explore new things together, whether it’s a new restaurant around the corner, or a new hobby you were both eager to try. Being in out-of-the-ordinary situations, or in different surroundings will add excitement to your marriage.

3- Go on Regular Walks Together

Going for a walk together will give you a chance to free your minds, it’s also a great exercise. Chatting will allow you to be in sync about each other’s daily lives. Sometimes walks can trigger some old memories, away from the distractions of your daily life.

4- Hangout With Old Friends

There is always a different side of us that comes out when we start hanging out with old friends. You’ll see how your partner starts acting differently, and it can be exciting to explore the young side of your spouse through old friends. But don’t forget to let your friends know if there are any forbidden topics.

5- Take Classes Together

One way to explore your relationship is to start taking courses that make room for new topics to talk about. Even if you’re busy, try to find some time to have a one-day workshop together on something that you both are interested in.