Netflix’s Echoes of the Past, the Egyptian adaptation of Who Killed Sara?, brings a new cultural lens to the Mexican thriller series that captured audiences with its gripping mystery. 

The original revolves around Alejandro, who unravels the truth behind his sister Sara’s murder, while the Egyptian version shifts focus to Yehia, played by Asser Yassin, as he navigates a labyrinth of secrets and betrayal after being wrongfully imprisoned for his sister Nadia’s death.

Staying True While Adapting to an Egyptian Context

The adaptation does a commendable job of localizing the story, weaving in themes and dynamics that resonate with Egyptian audiences.

From familial tensions to the portrayal of societal expectations, the series reflects the cultural nuances of its setting while maintaining the intense drama of the original. However, the slower pace of the opening episode might deter some international viewers who expect quicker developments.

Pacing and Acting Dynamics

The series starts slowly, building suspense gradually—a choice that could alienate viewers unfamiliar with the source material. Additionally, the disparity in acting abilities becomes evident early on.

While veterans like Mahmoud Hemida and Asser Yassin deliver stellar performances, some of the newer talents lack the same gravitas, creating a noticeable imbalance in key scenes.

A Mixed Bag of Visuals

A surprising shortcoming for a series of this scale is the reliance on poorly executed CGI for underwater scenes.

This feels like a missed opportunity, especially considering Egypt’s reputation for breathtaking diving locations. Authentic visuals could have added a layer of realism and visual appeal that CGI fails to capture.

Young Talent Steals the Show

Among the cast, young actor Youssef Raafat, who plays a young Yehia, is a revelation. His portrayal is so precise and aligned with Asser Yassin’s mannerisms that it’s almost unsettling. Raafat doesn’t just act the part; he embodies it, proving himself as a rising star to watch.

Veterans at Their Best

Asser Yassin continues to shine in his anti-hero role, delivering a performance that makes you empathize with Yehia’s darker instincts. In contrast, Mahmoud Hemida elevates every scene he’s in.

His ability to oscillate between ruthless villainy and heartbreaking vulnerability without uttering a word is nothing short of genius. Hemida’s performance alone makes the series worth watching.

Sound and Visual Storytelling

The music and sound design in Echoes of the Past deserve praise for enhancing the narrative. A standout moment in the first episode is the use of Adham Roshdy’s song Dead Man Walking, which seamlessly integrates into the storyline, amplifying its emotional impact. It’s a brilliant nod to an underrated artist who deserves wider recognition.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Adham Roshdy (@adham.roshdy)

Cinematographer Ahmed Gaber is another star of the show. His work transforms every frame into an art piece, elevating the series to a visual spectacle. The attention to detail in lighting, framing, and composition creates a mood that enhances the drama at every turn.

The Tea?

While Echoes of the Past stumbles slightly with its pacing and technical aspects like CGI, it excels in acting, storytelling, and visual appeal. The series captures the spirit of its predecessor while carving out its own identity in the Egyptian context. With time, it has the potential to become one of Netflix’s standout regional productions.

If you’re a fan of slow-burning mysteries with strong performances and stunning visuals, this series is definitely worth checking out.

Make sure to check Echoes of the Past on Netflix starting December 6th, 2024.