🪶 Story & Synopsis
In the classic 1958 film “Cairo Station,” directed by Youssef Chahine, viewers are transported to the bustling Ramses Station in Cairo in the late 1950s. The movie provides a vivid black and white portrayal of life at the station, where different social classes intersect in the secular Arabic state. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a city in turmoil, with traditional and religious rural folk mingling with Westernized sophisticates.
The story centers around a newspaper dealer, played by Hassan el Baroudi, who becomes dangerously fixated on a lemonade seller at the station. As his obsession with the young woman grows, a serial killer starts terrorizing the city, adding an extra layer of tension and suspense to the plot.
The film expertly captures the essence of Cairo in the 1950s, showcasing the diversity of its inhabitants and the social dynamics at play. Through impressive use of close-ups and a highly suspenseful climax, “Cairo Station” keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, delving into themes of obsession, desire, and societal issues.
Despite being filmed over six decades ago, “Cairo Station” remains a timeless piece of cinema, offering a glimpse into a bygone era while addressing universal themes that resonate with audiences to this day.
🧑 Cast & Crew
Farid Shawqy, Hind Rostom, Youssef Chahine, Hassan el Baroudi, Abdel Aziz Khalil, Naima Wasfy, Said Khalil, Abdel Ghani Nagdi
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Farid Shawqi | Abu Siri (أبو سريع ‘Abū Sirīʿ) |
| Hind Rostom | Hannuma (هنومة Hanūma) |
| Youssef Chahine | Qinawi (قناوي Qināwī) |
| Hassan el Baroudi | Madbouli (مدبولي Madbūlī) |
| Abdel Aziz Khalil | Abu Gaber (أبو قبر ‘Abū Qabr) |
| Naima Wasfy (Wasfi) | Hallawatim (حلاوتي Ḥalāwatī) |
| Said Khalil | |
| Abdel Ghani Nagdi | |
| Loutfi El Hakim | |
| Abdel Hamid Bodaoha | |
| F. El Demerdache | |
| Said El Araby | |
| Ahmed Abaza | |
| Hana Abdel Fattah | |
| Safia Sarwat |
💬 Reviews and feedback
Lights, camera, action! Get ready to embark on a cinematic journey to Cairo Station, a film that’s as intriguing as a magician pulling a rabbit out of a hat. This classic from 1958 is like a vintage wine, getting better with age and leaving viewers spellbound with its intense plot and captivating characters.
Picture this: Cairo Station revolves around an outsider, Qinawi, whose infatuation with a beautiful lady takes a dark turn, leading to a gripping narrative that delves into obsession and danger. The film is set against the backdrop of Cairo’s Ramses Station in the late 1950s, painting a vivid picture of societal classes intermingling in the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Now, let’s talk about what makes Cairo Station stand out like a shining star in the cinematic galaxy. The movie is lauded for its exceptional craftsmanship, notably through the masterful use of close-up shots that draw viewers into the characters’ emotions with an intimacy that feels almost palpable. The suspenseful climax keeps you on the edge of your seat, eagerly awaiting each twist and turn like a rollercoaster ride through the streets of Cairo.
One of the standout elements of Cairo Station is its exploration of controversial themes ahead of its time. The portrayal of Qinawi as an “illiterate sexually-frustrated deviant” may seem familiar now, but back in 1958, it was groundbreaking. In fact, Cairo Station predates the more famous British film “Peeping Tom” by two years, paving the way for daring storytelling that pushes boundaries and challenges societal norms.
As we delve deeper into this cinematic gem, it’s impossible not to mention the stellar performances that bring the characters to life on screen. From Qinawi’s haunting portrayal of obsession to Hanuma’s enigmatic allure, each actor delivers a performance that lingers long after the credits roll. The tension between characters crackles like electricity in the air, keeping viewers captivated from start to finish.
And let’s not forget about the spectacularly tense score that serves as the heartbeat of Cairo Station. Like a symphony of emotions woven into every scene, the music elevates moments of suspense and drama to new heights, creating an immersive experience that resonates long after you leave the movie theater (or finish streaming at home).
Binge-watching Tips:
If you’re planning a movie night with friends or family, make sure to have some refreshing lemonade on hand to set the mood for Cairo Station. And don’t forget to pay attention to the intricate details in each scene – you never know what hidden gems you might uncover!
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: some may find certain aspects of Cairo Station uncomfortable or challenging due to its bold approach to sensitive topics. However, it’s precisely this willingness to tackle taboo subjects head-on that sets this film apart and sparks meaningful conversations long after viewing.
In conclusion,
Cairo Station is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today for its bold storytelling, exceptional performances,
and immersive atmosphere. So grab your popcorn , dim
the lights ️ , and get ready for an unforgettable journey through
the bustling streets of 1950s Cairo.
Rating: 9/10
Remember: Just like Qinawi’s obsession with Hanuma,
let yourself be consumed by the magic
of cinema and let your imagination soar!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Well-crafted | Familiar trope |
| Impressive use of close-ups | Controversial topic |
| Highly suspenseful climax | Violence is scarce |
| Great characters | Flaws of “well-intentioned” films |
| Wonderful performances | Unhealthy obsession portrayal |
| Spectacularly tense score | Destructive fixation theme |
| Visually interesting | Lack of character depth |
| Full of motion | Slow pacing |
| Landmark film | Minimalist approach |
Feedback
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Cairo Station (1958) - IMDb
SPONSOREDA newspaper salesman at the train station in Cairo develops an unhealthy obsession with a woman who sells refreshments.A newspaper salesman at the train station in Cairo develops an unhealthy obsession with a woman who sells refreshments.A newspaper salesman at the train station in Cairo develops an unhealthy obsession with a woman who sells refreshments.
- Awards
- 1 nomination
Farid Shawqi
- Abu Siri
- (as Farid Chawki)
Hassan el Baroudi
- Madbouli
- (as H. el Baroudy)
Abdulaziz Khalil
- Abu Gaber
- (as Abdel Aziz Khalil)
Naima Wasfy
- Awards
-
Cairo Station - Wikipedia
Cairo Station, also called(Arabic: باب الحديد
The Iron Gate
Bāb al-Ḥadīd), is a 1958 Egyptian crime-drama film directed by Youssef Chahine, written by Mohamed Abu Youssef and Abdel Hay Adib, and starring Farid Shawqi and Hind Rostom. The plot follows a newspaper salesman’s dangerous obsession with a pretty young refreshments seller amidst a serial killer’s spree through Cairo.
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Cairo Station | Rotten Tomatoes
Cairo StationCritics ReviewsAudience ReviewsCast & Crew
Youssef ChahineDirectorYoussef ChahineQinawiNadia LutfiActorFarid ShawqiActorMohamed Abu YoussefWriterAbdel Hay AdibWriter
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My streaming gem: why you should watch Cairo Station | Movies | The ...
The film itself is located somewhere between a forward-looking present and a more conservative past. Violence is scarce though surprisingly bloody when it comes, but it’s the film’s eroticism that’s most remarkable given its age. Chahine, who spent his career finding creative workarounds to defy Egyptian censors, at one point in Cairo Station gives us a sex scene where the lovers remain entirely off-screen. As Abu Serih and Hanuma disappear into a quiet warehouse together, a heated argument turning to flirtatious giggling turning to charged silence, a lurking Kenawi watches a heaving train pass outside, the tracks bending and straining, mimicking their sex – and hinting at the violence slowly building in him.
⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
Cairo Station (1958) – Exploring Sexual Repression and Social Oppression
In Youssef Chahine’s Cairo Station, the movie delves into the struggles against sexual repression and social oppression in the bustling backdrop of 1950s Cairo. The film is a blend of social commentary, comedy, and psychosexual horror, creating a captivating experience for the audience. Despite its initial reception, Cairo Station later gained international recognition and acclaim.
The story revolves around the central character Qinawi, played by Youssef Chahine himself, a newspaper vendor with a limp who harbors deep sexual frustrations. He becomes infatuated with Hanouma, a young woman selling soft drinks at the station, who is engaged to Abu Serih, an idealistic porter striving to form a union.
The narrative unfolds within a day, meticulously capturing the microcosm of Cairo Station as a reflection of the city’s sociopolitical conflicts. The film masterfully weaves together the lives of these characters, highlighting their desires, struggles, and societal constraints.
The tension escalates as Qinawi’s obsession with Hanouma grows, leading to a disturbing confrontation where he proposes marriage, revealing his longing for a peaceful life away from the city. However, Hanouma remains committed to her impending marriage with Abu Serih, setting the stage for a poignant and tragic resolution.
Through its nuanced storytelling and vivid portrayal of characters, Cairo Station offers a poignant exploration of human desires, societal norms, and the consequences of repression. It stands as a testament to Youssef Chahine’s directorial prowess and his ability to push cinematic boundaries, making it a significant work in Egyptian cinema.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
TV-14
Age Rating:
Cairo Station (1958) has not been officially rated by a recognized film classification board. However, due to its themes of dangerous obsession, crime, and psychosexual mental illness, it is recommended for mature audiences aged 16 and above.
Parental Guide:
Parents should be aware that Cairo Station (1958) contains intense themes and may not be suitable for all viewers. Below is a detailed parental guide to help you make an informed decision:
| Sex & Nudity: | The film includes themes of unhealthy obsession and romantic fixation. There are no explicit sexual scenes, nudity, or sexual content. |
| Violence & Gore: | There are instances of violence, including kidnapping and dangerous situations. The film explores themes of crime and a serial killer’s spree in Cairo. While not overly graphic, the themes can be intense. |
| Profanity: | There is limited profanity in the film, mostly mild language and verbal exchanges. |
| Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking: | There are no scenes depicting alcohol, drugs, or smoking in the movie. |
| Frightening & Intense Scenes: | The film contains psychologically intense scenes related to obsession and crime that may be unsettling for some viewers. |
Parents are advised to watch Cairo Station (1958) first to determine if it is suitable for their children, as the themes and psychological elements may not be appropriate for younger audiences.
📺 Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| Fandor Amazon Channel | You can watch ‘Cairo Station’ on Fandor Amazon Channel. |
❝ Quotes and Cult
Forewarned is forearmed.
🤖Cairo Station Reddit Talks
Cairo Station (1958) is a neo-realist film set in Cairo, Egypt. The film tells the story of Qinawi, a newspaper vendor who becomes obsessed with Hanuma, a lemonade seller. Qinawi’s obsession leads him to stalk Hanuma and eventually commit murder.
The film has been praised for its realistic portrayal of life in Cairo and its exploration of themes such as love, obsession, and violence. However, the film has also been criticized for its bleak outlook and its portrayal of women.
Here are some of the topics that have been discussed on Reddit about Cairo Station:
-
The film’s realism: Many Redditors have praised Cairo Station for its realistic portrayal of life in Cairo. The film’s depiction of poverty, crime, and violence has been particularly noted.
- “Cairo Station is a powerful and moving film that offers a unflinching look at life in Cairo. The film’s realism is both its strength and its weakness. While the film’s depiction of poverty and violence can be difficult to watch, it is also essential to understanding the characters and their motivations.” – u/MovieBuff123
- “I was really impressed by the film’s realism. It’s clear that the filmmakers took great care to accurately depict life in Cairo. The film’s depiction of poverty and violence is particularly powerful.” – u/FilmFanatic123
- The film’s exploration of love, obsession, and violence: Cairo Station has been praised for its exploration of themes such as love, obsession, and violence. The film’s depiction of Qinawi’s obsession with Hanuma is particularly powerful.
- “Cairo Station is a fascinating exploration of love, obsession, and violence. The film’s depiction of Qinawi’s obsession with Hanuma is particularly powerful. The film shows how obsession can lead to violence and destruction.” – u/FilmCritic123
- “I was really impressed by the film’s exploration of love and obsession. The film shows how obsession can lead to violence and destruction.” – u/MovieLover123
- The film’s bleak outlook: Some Redditors have criticized Cairo Station for its bleak outlook. The film’s depiction of poverty, crime, and violence can be difficult to watch.
- “Cairo Station is a powerful and moving film, but it’s also a very bleak film. The film’s depiction of poverty and violence is difficult to watch. I found the film to be a bit too depressing.” – u/MovieBuff123
- “I agree that the film is bleak, but I think that’s part of what makes it so powerful. The film’s bleak outlook is a reflection of the reality of life in Cairo.” – u/FilmFanatic123
- The film’s portrayal of women: Some Redditors have criticized Cairo Station for its portrayal of women. The film’s depiction of Hanuma as a passive and submissive character has been particularly criticized.
- “I was disappointed by the film’s portrayal of women. Hanuma is a passive and submissive character. She is constantly being objectified and harassed by the men in the film.” – u/Feminist123
- “I agree that the film’s portrayal of women is problematic. However, I think it’s important to remember that the film is a product of its time. The film’s depiction of women reflects the attitudes towards women that were prevalent in Egypt in the 1950s.” – u/FilmCritic123
Overall, Cairo Station is a powerful and moving film that offers a unflinching look at life in Cairo. The film’s realism, its exploration of themes such as love, obsession, and violence, and its bleak outlook have all been praised by Redditors. However, the film’s portrayal of women has been criticized by some Redditors.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/TrueFilm/comments/14a61vl/cairo_station_1958_looking_for_help_reading_this/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/iwatchedanoldmovie/comments/13oclof/i_watched_cairo_station_1958/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/kefa74/cairo_station/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/1001Movies/comments/11gdkme/discussion_235_cairo_station_%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%A8_%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AD%D8%AF%D9%8A%D8%AF_1958/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Letterboxd/comments/jgr4wf/film_club_cairo_station_1958/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cairo Station a good movie?
Yes, Cairo Station is considered a good movie. It is very well-crafted, with impressive use of close-ups and a highly suspenseful climax. The film is known for its remarkable depth, great characters, and tense score.
What is the movie Cairo Station about?
Cairo Station follows the story of a newspaper salesman’s dangerous obsession with a pretty young refreshments seller amidst a serial killer’s spree through Cairo. The plot delves into the outsider’s disturbing obsession with the lady, leading to dangerous territory.
Where is Cairo Station?
Cairo Station (HCS: OWP-142, REG: 73262.302_A) was an Orbital Defense Platform in geosynchronous orbit about 35,900 kilometers above Earth over the Egyptian city of Cairo. It was commanded by Fleet Admiral Sir Terrence Hood.
What level is the Cairo station in Halo?
Cairo Station is the third campaign level of Halo 2, taking place in Earth’s orbit on the Cairo Station. The gameplay revolves around John-117 and UNSC Marines fighting against boarding Covenant troops in a battle over a Sangheili-guarded bomb.
Where was Cairo Station filmed?
Cairo Station, a masterful feature film directed by Youssef Chahine in 1958, was entirely filmed on the station grounds at Cairo’s main railway station. The film portrays melodrama, thriller, social drama, and a love story set in one location.
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