If you want sharp wit, surprises, and gripping pace for your new year, En Ghab El Ott is a clear choice. Loud, fast, and unapologetically entertaining, the film embraces chaos while maintaining control.
Asser Yassin’s Return to Comedy Hits the Right Notes
At the center of it all is Asser Yassin, making a confident return to comedy after B 100 Wesh. This time, he takes on the challenge of playing twin brothers: Zein, a refined art history professor, and Zeinhom, a slick art thief.
The contrast gives Yassin plenty of room to flex his range, moving seamlessly between restraint and absurdity. The confusion-driven sequences, where the mild-mannered Zein is mistaken for his criminal twin, are among the film’s most entertaining moments.
Hamza Diab Is the Film’s Real Surprise
Among the supporting performances, Hamza Diab stands out as the film’s most unexpected highlight. Playing Zein’s close friend, Diab brings a mischievous, sharp-edged energy that quickly proves essential to the story’s momentum. What starts as a light, humorous presence gradually reveals more depth, with developments that genuinely catch the audience off guard.
More importantly, Diab’s performance marks a turning point in how he should be seen. This isn’t a “young kid given a random opportunity” role. He holds his ground opposite seasoned actors, lands his comedic beats without forcing them, and navigates the character’s shifts with confidence and control.
Asmaa Galal and Rehab El Gamal Elevate the Comedy
Asmaa Galal matches that energy as Hind, an art conservator engaged to Zein. Her performance brings a sharper comedic edge than in Asghal Sha’a, balancing humor and emotional grounding. Her character’s thirst for excitement adds tension, never slipping into caricature.
Rehab El Gamal stands out, delivering fearless comic relief. Her chemistry with Galal is instant, and she commands every scene, leaving you wanting more.
An Ensemble Cast That Keeps the Energy High
The supporting cast works smoothly across both comedy and action. Ayman Wattar’s script keeps things moving, delivering jokes without dragging the pacing. Performances from Mohamed Shahin, Ali Sobhy, Samah Anwar, and Carmen Bsaibes add texture and charisma without crowding the frame.
Surprise Cameos That Actually Work
Cameos here are well-timed and purposeful, never forced. Hesham Maged, Taha Desouky, and Amina Khalil appear without distracting from the story. Khalil, especially, delivers a sharp moment with Galal that becomes a highlight.
Twists, Pacing, and Controlled Chaos
The story takes unexpected turns without becoming convoluted. A late reveal is handled cleanly, delivering an earned payoff instead of a gimmick.
Mohamed Mamdouh’s crisp editing keeps the rhythm tight, while El-Waily’s score heightens the controlled chaos. Director Sarah Noah balances action and comedy, letting each performer shine without losing momentum.
Beneath the laughs and thrills, the film briefly touches on women’s attraction to “bad boy” archetypes. The idea is there, though it feels slightly on-the-nose and wrapped up too neatly to leave a lasting impact. Still, En Ghab El Ott isn’t trying to be a deep social commentary. It’s here to entertain, and it knows exactly how to do that.
En Ghab El Ott is now showing in cinemas across Egypt, so if you’re looking for a loud, entertaining start to the new year, it’s time to book your tickets.
