The Chaos

With more than forty films on his conscience (Silence…We´re Rolling was screened at FFS in 2002), the recently deceased Chahine was one of Egypt’s most distinguished directors. The Chaos takes place in Cairo, in the cosmopolitan area of Choubra. The policeman Hatem rules it with an iron fist and is feared and hated by its inhabitants. Only Nour dares stand up to him, a woman in whom Hatem is highly interested. When he learns that Nour is in love with another man, Hatem focuses all his energy on ruining their relationship. Using a colourful brush, Chahine paints a portrait of a Cairo of the past, with alleys seething with hate and growing desires. This film was screened at the Venice film festival, which this year was organised in memory of Chahine.