An Egyptian Story is the sequel to the autobiographically inspired Eskendereya... leih? (Alexandria ... why?). The film chronicles Chahine's career up to his open heart surgery in 1973, where he plays his alter-ego Yehia, who gains international fame in Europe. Yehia discovers that in Egypt, films are more focused on commercial success rather than artistic value.
In the middle of his own heart surgery, Yehia remembers his life. He sees his old self, as a child, on trial accused of attempting to murder his new self. The metaphorical trial shows the audience his life, his relation with the revolution, his constant need for success, and the effect the American dream has on his life.
Chahine was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Cannes Film Festival in 1997. He died in 2008.
Tonight's screening will be followed by a discussion with Egyptian actress Youssra, who plays Yehia's lover, Amal, in the film.
Zawya launched in March 2014 and is run by Misr International Films, the film company founded by Chahine himself.
Source: Ahram Online