By Ahmed Amin
Zawya, Cairo’s art-house cinema tucked in the heart of downtown, has long been a haven for cinephiles — screening films across genres, languages, and eras that rarely find space in commercial theatres.
But beyond its global and experimental offerings, Zawya has also embraced something closer to home: the revival of Egyptian early 2000s classics. These are the films we grew up with — the ones we could quote line for line — and they’ve earned a lasting place in our collective memory.
And with Zawya recently announcing the re-screening of El-Hassa El-Sabaa on August 8th — a comedic cult classic that was far ahead of its time and initially overlooked — anticipation is building. After gaining the love it deserved through countless TV replays, we can’t wait to see it return to the silver screen.
But this isn’t the first time Zawya has revived a gem from the 2000s — and it definitely won’t be the last. So why not take a quick look back at this tradition, and spotlight the iconic Egyptian films from that era that made their way back to Zawya’s big screen?
El-Hassa El-Sabaa
So why is everyone so eager about this one? Because El-Hassa El-Sabaa marked Ahmed Mekky’s debut — and what a debut it was. The comedy felt entirely new, the creativity was unmatched, and the cast? Instantly lovable. The story follows a young Kung Fu fighter chasing fame, only to realise the sport garners neither appreciation nor recognition. Everything shifts when he crosses paths with a mysterious fortune-teller.
It’s the kind of plot that sticks with us — simple, quirky, and somehow inspiring. To the point that some of us even considered taking up Kung Fu ourselves.
Sahar El Layali
A modern Egyptian classic that dives into the complexities of love and relationships, peeling back the layers of human connection.
The film follows a group of friends and their spouses as they reunite at a birthday party — a gathering that sparks heartfelt conversations and reveals hidden tensions. In a collective attempt to reflect and heal, they head to Alexandria to relive their carefree bachelor days, hoping to rediscover themselves and their relationships.
Today, Fayrouz’s classic ‘Sahar El Layali’ is inseparable from the film itself. For many Egyptians, the two are forever intertwined. The final scene—set to the haunting beauty of the song—remains one of the most iconic endings in Egyptian cinema. So much so, it’s now become a tradition to end weddings with the track, echoing the film’s closing moment.
Hob El-Banat
One of our favorite light-hearted rom-coms — the heart-shaped cake, the unforgettable ending song — this film is etched into our memories, so much so that it’s become a Valentine’s Day staple. It follows three half-sisters, separated for most of their lives, who are suddenly forced to live under one roof for a year to claim their inheritance.
What unfolds is a reflection on the deep differences that shape us — and how love and sentimentality can still bring people together. With a cast you can’t help but adore and a story told with undeniable warmth, this film is a very feel-good classic.
Fe Sha’et Masr El-Gedida
One of Mohamed Khan’s final films — and a testament to his enduring mastery in portraying female characters. The story follows Nagwa, a music teacher who returns to Egypt in search of her former mentor, Tahani.
But when she arrives at Tahani’s old apartment, her journey takes an unexpected turn, leading her into a series of encounters — including a chance meeting with Yehia, a man who will quietly become the love of her life.
A film where love and nostalgia intertwine, capturing the tension between our longing for the past and our hopes for what lies ahead.
Banat West El-Balad
Another testament to Khan’s gift for crafting compelling female characters, Banat West El-Balad captures the dreams, ambitions, and fears of young women navigating life in a fast-paced world.
Blending vibrant comedy with moments of quiet introspection, the film follows their encounters and experiences—each revealing something deeper about the female psyche.
And in the midst of the chaos, they stumble upon love in moments that feel like a smile against all odds.
We never know which 2000s gem Zawya will bring back next — but one thing’s certain: we’ll be waiting, and chances are… We’ll be there.
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