While doing some research online of a particular subject, I came across this film which is quite remarkable and breathtaking at the same time. I've actually seen this for like a couple of months ago as its initial screening was back in 2009 due to limited release. If I'm not mistaken, this should be shown shortly as right now the film is geared for a worldwide release. That shouldn't be a problem.
Romance set in an exotic Mediterranean country both culturally and historically rich is like sipping wine in a weekend picnic under a beautiful balmy weather. There's just something enchanting and memorable about it that is worth retelling for years and years. What's interesting about watching Cairo Time is that also does double-duty as a travelogue, is that it transports an audience to a place so magical and mythic. Somehow, it is already a rewarding experience in itself.
The main character of the story is the place itself, Egypt or in this case, Cairo in particular - "The City of a Thousand Minarets." On a November, we see Juliette (played by Patricia Clarkson), a 40-something fashion magazine editor, touching down at Cairo International Airport in town to visit and spend time with her husband Mark. Her host, Tareq (Alexander Siddig) came to fetch her and who also happened to be her husband's former colleague working under the United Nations refugee camps. Upon arriving, Tareq informed her of her husband's unavoidable delay in Gaza due to an urgent mission and assured her of the safety of Mark's situation. As they walked towards the car, they chanced upon Yasmeen, an old friend of Tareq's during his university days and ended up being invited to a wedding in Alexandria for Yasmeen's daughter. Both were appreciative and cordial of the gesture.
Along the way, the two started exchanging conversations about family and work even commenting about the intense weather enveloping the place. Being her first time in the "middle east" as remarked by Tareq, she confessed how much she loves the idea of finally getting the opportunity to experience Cairo. He dropped her off at her hotel to get settled and wait for Mark's call. Although disappointed of spending a few days alone, Juliette tried to check out the place even managing to leave the hotel premises unaccompanied. She then encountered an unusual and strange culture far removed from the comforts of home, men started following her around which started to scare her. She decided to drop by Tareq's coffee shop just to be around a familiar face where the patrons are all-male playing a game of cards and chess. He spent the day with her being a gracious host. This would begin a series of get together for the two on the duration of Mark's absence.
That evening, a solo Juliette attended one of Mark's function and met some of his colleagues and their partners especially Kathryn. Already worried of how she can get through to her husband, Kathryn offered to have lunch with her along with some friends the following day and also went for a hike at the white dessert - in an effort to keep each other occupied. The next morning, Tareq came by to show her around - taking her on a boat ride in the River Nile and capping the night for a smoke of shisha. She then departed to her room and was in time to receive Mark's call for update. Desperate to see him, she couldn't help herself but venture her way to Gaza via coach. Halfway to her trip, she was held up at a check point and was not allowed to go any further to reach her destination. Left with no choice, she was ordered to go back to Cairo and obliged to phone in Tareq to pick her up from her stop.
The days that follow, Juliette and Tareq kept each other company taking leisurely walks in the city, talking and discussing about life and relationships with occasional friendly banters followed by a little bit of flirtation from time to time. They even decided to embark on a journey to Alexandria for the wedding. They both enjoyed the traditional celebration and grateful for their accommodating host. While there, they couldn't fathom the idea of not seeing each other again once she leaves Egypt and unsure how they could keep in touch. After which, they headed back to Cairo and was in time to see Mark waiting at the hotel that put an end to their fleeting rendezvous.
The film ended with Mark and Juliette leaving the hotel to finally take a tour of the Grand Pyramids just as they had promised each other.
Clarkson and Siddig's performances were captivating and beautifully painful - it would seem as if these roles were carefully tailored fit for both. They very much carried their own with graceful sophistication in the entire run of the film without trying to compete with its main character, Cairo. Juliette's softspoken disposition, understated style (not to mention that unforgettable chic green dress) and impeccable manners are so endearing; while Tareq's brooding persona, unwavering honesty and unapologetic ideals are intimidating to say the least. As a testament to that, the unspoken chemistry and quiet hesitation of their characters are undeniably charming.
It's highly likely to see Cairo as the newest romantic destination. Be sure to make a stop there in this lifetime.
** This story is taken from my old blog - popcorn sessions. **
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Photos via Aceshowbiz
