The Other

A scathing portrait of the Egyptian business world-driven by unbridled greed-the film exposes the links between power and fanaticism while denouncing intolerance. Adam, the son of a wealthy businessman and his American wife, meets Hanane, a modestly paid journalist, at the airport upon his return from studying in the United States. She campaigns against a privileged elite that has enriched itself by exploiting its own people. They fall in love and marry. Corruption pervades the country, and American interests seize control of the lucrative tourism sector. Adam's wealthy and influential parents stand at the heart of this corrupt system. His mother, Margaret, harbors a disturbingly possessive affection for her son and, driven by jealousy, is prepared to eliminate Hanane, whom she sees as a rival. Adam ultimately rebels against the globalized economic order embodied by his parents, recognizing the greed of international speculators and their covert ties to fanatical fundamentalist sects. Matters worsen when Hanane's brother becomes an Islamist terrorist. The resistance the couple faces strengthens their resolve but comes at a high cost. 52nd Cannes Film Festival, 1999.