Egyptian-Austrian filmmaker Abu Bakr Shawky premiered his latest film, The Stories, at the 29th Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival in Estonia on November 19, 2023. Known for his previous works, including the Oscar-nominated Yommedine, Shawky’s new project captivated audiences, particularly during a lively Q&A session following the screening.
The film draws inspiration from Shawky’s own family history, telling the story of how his Egyptian father and Austrian mother began as pen pals. It intertwines their lives with a broader narrative that reflects the cultural exchange between their worlds. The film features a unique structure, presenting five interconnected stories that utilize archival footage, music, and dramatic scenes to explore themes of friendship, ambition, and cultural collision.
The Stories opens in Egypt during the summer of 1967, when a young man named Ahmed receives a letter from his future pen pal, Liz, in Austria. Their long-distance friendship faces skepticism from Ahmed’s relatives. As he aspires to become a pianist, Liz encourages him to pursue his dream of a public concert. The film spans the tumultuous years until the 1980s, showcasing how their relationship endures amidst the backdrop of war and personal challenges.
Shawky shared that the film is not just a biographical account but also a creative interpretation of the narratives passed down through his family. “This film is based on the true story of how my parents got together in the ‘70s,” he remarked, inviting his parents to join him on stage to a warm reception from the audience. He described the film as an exploration of “worlds colliding,” emphasizing the small victories of ordinary people striving for greatness.
During the Q&A, Shawky elaborated on the storytelling tradition within his family, noting how each retelling of their experiences became increasingly fantastical. “Most of what’s happening is fiction, but it’s based on reality, which is how my parents got together,” he explained.
The cast includes well-known actors such as Amir El-Masry, recognized for his roles in The Crown and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, and Valerie Pachner, who starred in Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore. Both actors faced challenges in their roles, with El-Masry stating he had to master pieces by Bach and Rachmaninov in a short time, while Pachner humorously mentioned her struggles with learning Arabic for her character.
Shawky’s parents appear in cameo roles in the film, although they were unaware of the extent to which their lives would be portrayed. “He said it’s [snippets] about us, but it’s a lot about us,” his mother remarked during the Q&A, eliciting laughter from the audience. She expressed gratitude, saying, “Each and every character that is in the film… I spent many, many years with in Egypt before we even got married. All these characters really lived.”
With its blend of personal history and artistic vision, The Stories seeks to honor the lives of those who often remain unseen, presenting a cinematic tribute to the power of connection across cultures and generations.
