Sleepless Eyes (1981)
A gripping Egyptian drama of jealousy, inheritance, and forbidden desire, brought to life by Farid Shawqy and a young Ahmed Zaki.
Sleepless Eyes - Movie Information
- Original Title: عيون لا تنام
- Release Year: 1981
- Directed by: Raafat El Mehi
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Runtime: 1h 48m
- Original Language: Arabic
- Spoken Languages: Arabic
- Release Date (Theatrical): October 5, 1981 (Egypt)
- Alternative Titles: Eyes Which Do Not Sleep (US)
- Production Countries: Egypt
Sleepless Eyes - Plot
Ibrahim, the owner of a large car workshop, marries a poor girl called Mahasen, which his brothers fear because of their fear of sharing their inheritance. At the same time, Ismael feels a lot of hatred and hatred toward Ibrahim, who works for him in the workshop, The problems all the time with the pros, but soon change the relationship between Mahasen and Ishmael.
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Sleepless Eyes - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Raafat El Mehi
Main Cast
- Farid Shawqy
- Ahmed Zaki
- Madiha Kamel
- Ali Al Sharif
- Naima ElSoghier
- Suad Abdallah
- Nizar Al-Samarawy
- Wafiq Fahmy
- Ahmed Abu Abiya
- Nadia Shams El Dine
Writers
- Raafat El Mehi
Producers
- Ahmed Metwally
Sleepless Eyes - FAQs
What is Sleepless Eyes about?
Sleepless Eyes follows Ibrahim, a prosperous car workshop owner whose marriage to a poor woman named Mahasen unsettles his brothers, who fear losing their inheritance. Meanwhile, Ismail, a resentful employee, harbors deep hatred for Ibrahim — until an unexpected bond begins to form between him and Mahasen.
Who are the main actors in Sleepless Eyes?
The film stars Farid Shawqy as Ibrahim, Ahmed Zaki as Ismail, and Madiha Kamel as Mahasen. The supporting cast includes Ali Al Sharif, Naima ElSoghier, Suad Abdallah, Nizar Al-Samarawy, Wafiq Fahmy, Ahmed Abu Abiya, and Nadia Shams El Dine.
When was Sleepless Eyes released?
Sleepless Eyes was released on October 5, 1981, in Egypt. It is an Egyptian Arabic-language drama that showcases the talent of a celebrated generation of Egyptian cinema, including the legendary Farid Shawqy and the rising star Ahmed Zaki.
Was Sleepless Eyes an early role for Ahmed Zaki?
Yes — Sleepless Eyes is one of the earlier notable appearances of Ahmed Zaki, who would go on to become one of Egypt's most celebrated actors. His portrayal of the brooding, conflicted Ismail offered an early glimpse of the intense, layered performances that would define his legendary career.
Who directed Sleepless Eyes?
Sleepless Eyes was directed by Raafat El Mehi, who also wrote the screenplay. El Mehi was a prominent figure in Egyptian cinema and television, known for crafting socially charged dramas that explored class tensions, family dynamics, and human desire with sharp, unsparing insight.
What themes does Sleepless Eyes explore?
At its core, Sleepless Eyes digs into greed, class resentment, and forbidden attraction. The story examines how a marriage across social lines can fracture family bonds and ignite dangerous loyalties, weaving together jealousy and betrayal in a way that feels both intimate and socially resonant.
How long is Sleepless Eyes?
Sleepless Eyes runs for 108 minutes, or 1 hour and 48 minutes. It is an Egyptian drama produced in 1981, spoken entirely in Arabic, and directed by Raafat El Mehi.
What are some movies similar to Sleepless Eyes?
If you enjoyed Sleepless Eyes, you might also like Here (2024), The Adults (2023), Rogue Agent (2022), The Nest (2020), and Magpie (2024). These films share themes of complex relationships, family tension, and dramatic personal conflict that echo the spirit of this Egyptian classic.
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