The Streets of Cairo as a Character

In a deeply evocative interview, Muhammed Hamdy, the director of Perfumed with Mint, section Settimana Internazionale della Critica, shares the inspiration and artistic vision behind his poignant film. With a background as an Emmy-winning cinematographer, Hamdy makes his directorial debut by transforming the streets of Cairo into a character of its own—a city marked by dreams, disappointments, and the haunting memories of its inhabitants.

Visual Poetry and Allegory: The Power of Mint

Perfumed with Mint tells the story of two friends, Bahaa and Mahdy, navigating the desolate urban landscape through their complex emotions and experiences. “The film represents a generation tormented by their reality, caught in a survival conundrum,” Hamdy remarks. The imagery of mint serves as a powerful metaphor, sprouting from the bodies of those who have suffered loss and tragedy, while beckoning shadows chase them through the city. Through a unique blend of visual poetry and allegory, Hamdy captures the essence of a society grappling with the weight of nostalgia and the shadows of the past.

He explains that the film is rich with atmosphere, presenting Cairo as a “sweet-smelling city of ghosts,” a phrase that captures the juxtaposition of beauty and sorrow within the film’s setting. Bahaa, a broken-hearted physician portrayed by Alaa El Din Hamada, waits for his next patient and finds himself intertwined with Mahdy, who embodies the struggles of their generation. “When Mahdy arrives, mint leaves peek out from behind his curls, symbolizing the burdens of their shared experiences,” Hamdy describes. This visual nuance deepens the exploration of their friendship and the emotional turmoil they face.

The narrative unfolds as the two friends drift through haunted homes and forgotten places, each step revealing memories of loss and longing. Hamdy artfully crafts their journey to reflect the internal struggles of his characters. “I wanted to highlight not just the physical journey of these men but also their emotional states, which echo the larger narrative of a generation caught in the grip of paranoia,” he notes. The film’s subdued yet impactful storytelling invites the audience to reflect on the tension between hope and despair.

With its haunting visuals and unique narrative style, Perfumed with Mint invites comparisons to renowned works of cinema that delve into the depths of human emotion. Drawing on influences from both African and Arab filmmaking, Hamdy’s style emphasizes the intimate connection between the characters and their environment. The film conveys a sense of tranquility juxtaposed with pervasive paranoia, resonating with many viewers, particularly in today’s turbulent climate.

Paranoia and Emotional Depth in Hamdy’s Direction

In his director’s statement, Hamdy elaborates on the complexity of emotional experiences: “Paranoia does not demand context; it merely exists,” he states. The film grapples with themes of fear and vulnerability, allowing characters to confront their pain while navigating the harsh realities of life. “I felt compelled to connect with the subjects’ inner wounds, those unexpressed emotions that linger beneath the surface,” he explains.

The collaboration with the cast and crew also played a crucial role in shaping the film’s authenticity. Hamdy expresses gratitude for the trust and commitment displayed by his actors, stating, “They brought their experiences into the film and added depth to the characters.” By working closely with non-professional actors, Hamdy