A Girl Called Zaat (‘Bent Esmaha Zaat’)

TV drama Series

A family story that traces shifts in modern Egyptian history. This widely acclaimed drama series, released in Ramadan 2013, is based on the novel by Sonallah Ibrahim.

Like the novel, the drama series follows Zaat’s life over time, highlighting the difficulties she faces as a woman and as a result of changes to Egypt's political economy. The adaptation of Zaat in the post-2011 period, not only sees a more assertive Zaat but also brings it up-to-date, showing Zaat’s participation in the 2011 uprising.

Ramadan is the most important time of year for the release of new drama series in the Arab world as most people watch TV after eating iftar (the meal that breaks the daily fast). A new episode is released every evening throughout the fasting month. After 2011, a number of TV drama series dealt directly or indirectly with the 2011 revolution. However, after Sisi came to power, the regime increased its control over the making of Ramadan drama series, leading to a reduced number of series being made and less interest amongst the viewing public.

Kamla Abu Zekry (director)

Mariam Naoum (writer)

YouTube

YouTube Standard Licence

Arabic

01/07/2013