Filmmaker Abu Bakr Shawky premiered his latest work, The Stories, at the 29th Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival in Estonia on November 19, 2023. The film, inspired by the romance between his Egyptian father and Austrian mother, explores themes of connection across cultures and highlights the significance of personal storytelling.
The narrative unfolds through the lens of Shawky’s parents, who began their relationship as pen pals in the 1970s. The film presents a tapestry of five interwoven stories, enriched by archival footage that includes political speeches, soccer matches, and radio transmissions. It also features a vibrant soundtrack of Egyptian songs spanning from 1967 to 1984.
The Stories begins with Ahmed, played by Amir El-Masry, receiving a letter from Austria in the summer of 1967. The letter, from Liz, marks the start of a long-distance friendship that faces skepticism from Ahmed’s family. As their relationship develops, Ahmed pursues his dream of becoming a pianist, supported by Liz despite the challenges posed by their differing backgrounds. The film captures their shared experiences, ranging from personal triumphs to the broader socio-political upheavals in Egypt until the 1980s.
Shawky, who previously garnered attention for his film Yommedine, which was Egypt’s submission for the 2018 Academy Awards, received a warm reception following the screening. During a Q&A session, he reflected on the storytelling traditions within his family and how they influenced his creative process. He remarked, “This film is based on the true story of how my parents got together in the ‘70s… It’s about worlds colliding. It’s about worlds meeting.”
The film features a talented cast including Valerie Pachner, known for roles in Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore and A Hidden Life. Shawky’s parents made a cameo appearance, adding a personal touch to the film. His mother humorously noted during the Q&A that while her son downplayed the extent of their family’s portrayal, the film indeed brings to life many shared memories. “Each and every character that is in the film… I spent many, many years with in Egypt before we even got married,” she added.
Shawky’s creative team includes producer Julie Viez, editor Roland Stöttinger, and cinematographer Wolfgang Thaler. The production is represented by Goodfellas, an established name in film sales.
The filmmaker’s vision aims to resonate with audiences by illustrating the beauty of human connections and the narratives that shape our lives. As the film continues its festival circuit, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the ways in which personal histories can reflect broader societal narratives.
