Original subtitles

Barakat Films Present.

The Curlew's Call.

Faten Hamama

Ahmed Mazhar.

Timeless Story of: Dr. Taha Hussein.

Screenplay: Barakat, Youssef Gohar.

Dialogue: Youssef Gohar.

Cinematography: Wahid Farid.

Directed by: Barakat.

Two.. and he's yet to arrive.

I must await him.

It's my first day in his home,

though my story with him and the night started years ago.

It started, but when will it end

and with what outcome?

God strengthen me so I can do what I want

and get what I came for.

- Evening, sir. - Good evening, Bassiouny.

Yes, sir.

Why are you still up?

- I feared you'd need me. - Good girl.

The others slept early. I had to wake them

I've served before and know what's proper.

Anything you need?

- Light the lamp. - Yes, sir.

Why do you tremble? Are you cold?

Not at all.

Scared?

Shall I prepare dinner?

No, I ate at the club Take my jacket to my room.

No, sir. God bless you Don't, please.

No, sir. God bless you Don't, sir.

See you're scared?

How come you served before? Why are you here?

If you knew why I came, you'd wish I never set foot in this house.

You've come?

I was awaiting you.

All my life, you've been in my heart.

Your voice was so precious.

Young, I found you in my joy and happiness.

Older, I find you

a companion hearing my lament.

You alone were with me on the doomed night.

Remember?

You and I screamed

but our voice was lost in space.

Your call reached nobody.

My scream touch no-one's heart.

Soar comfortably.

We have a vow I won't forget.

Hanadi is in my heart though unseen.

Remember?

Our life was lovely.

The whole world revolved around our little village.

Its borders, desert and sand.

Plants and greenery.

The heart was vacant,

the mind at rest.

- Hurry, Amna. - ls it the end of the world?

It's noon and you're lingering.

Lingering? If I only filled half the pitcher like you I'd fly.

- I know why you're worried. - Why?

I'm dizzy and haven't had tea

ls that so? Are you dizzy for tea or the flute?

- Morning, girls. - Good morning.

- I'm thirsty. - Drink sea water.

Hanadi!

- So you're lingering now? - Shame, Amna.

Tell me... did he tell you he wants you?

He didn't say it in so many words, but my heart sensed it.

Your heart is nothing but trouble.

Every week it sways in a different direction

I don't flirt with them, they flirt with me.

Amna, don't let your tongue slip before mum.

Do you think me a child?

I'm wiser than you.

I swear if your husband doesn't alter his ways

I'll shoot him.

Calm down, brother.

What can I do? I've often told him.

He thinks the people whose honor he ravishes are dogs.

They've sworn revenge.

- Morning, uncle. - Morning, uncle.

Good morning.

- Amna. - Yes, mother.

Go get some wood so we can make your uncle tea.

Alright.

If your husband returns, tell me

I have to talk to him.

- Wait for your tea. - I want nothing.

Don't be upset, mother.

I fear for your father, Hanadi.

His evil ways won't bring a good outcome.

Mum.. Hanadi.

What, Amna?

- What is it, child? - Isn't that dad's horse?

- I think so.. is it, Hanadi? - Yes it is.

- And what's on top? - What if it's my dad?

- It's my dad. - Something's happened to him.

- Where are you going? - Khedr is killed.. they shot him.

- Go back in the house. - They killed my man.

- Don't breathe a word. - My man.. my man.

- What are you saying, Gaber? - What I should, uncle

- I agree. - How can we kick the women out?

They must no longer stay here.

Since when is honor and blood so cheap?

I said no such thing.

Khedr must rest in peace.

He's met his Lord, Gaber.

Here there is only gloating and gossip.

All who meet me ask after my sister and the girls.

They mean the wife and daughters of an adulterer.

- Can we kick out our flesh? - I didn't say so.

- They leave in peace. - Turned out?

How so? They agree as we do.

When they leave they'll forget and be forgotten.

Khedr will be forgotten too.

You, me, and everyone else will rest easy.

Well?

- It's up to you. - I'll send them away.

- Would you be so cruel? - Your husband was cruel.

Let people forget you, and we'll forget the shame.

Fear God, Saber.

Your heart is of stone.

Your husband didn't fear God.

Take these.

That's the mercy they managed.

Money for food on our path.

They feared not the evils of that path.

The heaven we lived in as children

they kicked us out of.

Safety, we farewelled.

Behind, a sordid past.

Ahead, a day that holds who knows what?

Days went by as we moved from village to village.

Woe to me from the day past.

I fear the day to come.

A ghoul.. a ghoul, mother.

Fear not. it's the railway train.

That's the train?

- Why is it full of sparks? - Always has been.

- Where's it headed? - To the city.

To do what?

Drop off and pick up passengers.

- What about beasts? - We left camels and asses behind.

You'll see a lot in the city Come on.

It was the first thing we saw of the city.

Noise, smoke and terror.

A comfortable, spacious place

with a divided door and a window with glass.

It's okay.

May it bring you luck.

How much?

Consider it paid. We want you and the girls to be comfortable.

Please, sheik, tell me.

Every month when you see the crescent, pay 10 piasters.

- Oh, my. - That's too much.

A glass window, and you find 10 piasters too much?

God knows we have little money.

No worries.. the poor one is with you

I won't ask for money till I get your girls jobs in the best homes.

Thanks.

We got used to estrangement.

The city no longer scared us.

We even got used to the ghoul.

Um Hanadi, lady Zuhra.

Who is it?

Sheik Shaaban, good morning.

It's not just good.. you've a guardian angel helping you.

Your daughters will work

one with the engineer

the other with the commissioner.

- Are they good? - Sure.

I said the commissioner, the highest rank in town.

And the engineer who controls our county's water supply.

A word of his could drown the whole bank.

It's our first time leaving mother.

We smiled, as our hearts were full of pain.

Look, girls.

I want you to make me proud.

Never let out secrets.

Never touch a thing.

You must be content and modest.

Eat half a meal. Got it?

Before going to the engineer

I came to you, so you can choose

I'll take the young one.

She seems quiet and the same age as Khadiga.

You're right, madam.

Hey, Amna.

Step forward.

Kiss your lady's hand.

- Your name's Amna? - Your servant, madam.

You're so lucky, Amna.

You've been hired at the commissioner's.

I want you to make me proud like I said.

Anything she does,

I guarantee her.

She seems decent.

Go see my husband for your reward.

God forbid.. my reward is your approval.

But, my lady, he forgot me completely.

How come?

Every month I expect my son's name to appear in the guards' list,

but I'm disappointed.

Please, talk to him.

Alright, Shaaban. I'll tell him.

I'm now sure I'll spite my enemies.

Like I told you.

Go, get two chickens from the pen and follow me inside.

Alright.

As I smiled to conceal parting with mum,

I smiled, parting with Hanadi.

I wished God would hold her hand

and give her good luck.

I never imagined what fate had in store for us.

I wonder if, had I gone to the engineer, my fate would be hers.

Or was each of us destined to what befell her?

Come, Amna.

Don't be afraid.

Your name's Amna, right?

Your servant, my lady.

It's a lovely name. I'm Khadiga.

God bless.

What are you looking at?

It sounds like a drum.

- Did you never see a piano? - It's called 'piana'?

It's nice.

The French tutor arrived.

What's a tutor?

- Another thing that plays? - No, he babbles.

- Khadiga, the tutor is here. - Yes, mother.

Come, Amna, prepare coffee for the tutor and grass for the ass.

- Get the door, Amna. - Alright.

- Good morning, Miss. - Good morning, sir.

Amna, come here.

Go get the coffee and give this to mum.

Get the chicken, Amna.

Choock, choock. careful, man.

Get it, get it.

ls this a French or cookery lesson?

Come here.

- Has the French lesson started? - What lesson?

French.

I can't understand.

Take the coffee quickly.

And don't leave them, get it?

Alright.

That's it,

we've finished grammar and will start translating.

That's enough today, sir.

It's too early for noon.

- Has the chicken hungered you? - Not at all.

Translate into French.

How delicious are rabbits with Meloukheya !

- Boiled or fried? - Fried

- I prefer boiled. - And I prefer fried.

- Lunch with us today. - No thanks.

Translate.

You're not concentrating today.

Thinking of chicken.

Next time you have chicken and Meloukheya, warn me not to come.

Excuse me.

- Hello, Mr. Beshara. - Hello, commissioner.

Nice to see you.

It's early yet.. have lunch with us.

Sorry, I apologize. Um George awaits me.

How's Khadiga doing in French?

Speaks fluently, my friend.

God give you rest.

Come on, my friend.. don't stall.

Khadiga.. Khadiga.

- Hi, dad. - Hello, dear.

Mum, mum.. dad's arrived.

- Welcome home, commissioner. - I'm starved, chief

- I've shredded the Meloukheya. - Hurry then.

I'm proud of you The tutor praised you.

I take after you, dad. I'll go get your slippers.

OK, lovie.

Why are you standing there? Go get the basin and pot.

Did you get a new servant?

Yes, Shaaban brought her.

Hire his son, will you?

Can I hire a thief as guard?

I'll hire him as detective.

He can report his fellow thieves.

Come help me, smartie.

- What's your name? - Your servant, Amna.

- Where from? - Beni Warkan.

That's too far away.

- Where? I never heard of it. - You never will.

It's in the mountains.

Toughen up. Don't you feed her?

I wish you saw where I work, something you've never seen.

- What? - A machine called 'piana'.

Black with white keys.

As soon as the lady touches it,

you hear curlews, drums and music.

- Does she have a gramophone? - What's that?

It's like a doughnut. When the pin strikes, you hear songs.

I heard a woman sing while I was alone.

I thought there were ghosts and fainted.

The engineer explained it. Oh, his love!

Love? Are you in love with the engineer?

It's the song in the gramophone.

- Good morning, mum. - Good morning, girls.

- 'Bon iour', mum. - What?

That's good morning in French.

What's that, Amna?

A tight dress.

- Shame? Do we wear that? - Like city girls.

We must be conservative.

If your uncle Gaber saw you he'd kill you.

- Why, mum? - For dressing like city girls.

No, take it off.. let's stick to our code.

Are you happy?

Very much, mum.

The commissioner is all laughs.

His wife is the best of ladies and his daughter loves me.

Thank God. And you, Hanadi?

- You didn't tell if you're happy. - I am.

ls the engineer's mother nice?

She was when she came.

What do you mean?

I mean. you see, she's..

Her eldest daughter's ill, and...

And what? You're alone? Shame.

She'll return from Cairo in 2 days time.

And the engineer barely stays home.

If not for the blame, I'd say don't go back.

His mother's returning. I await her daily.

Watch out for yourself, Hanadi.

- The world is full of peril. - Don't worry, mother.

Months went by..

Our village and past dissolved into a dream.

The dream was forgotten.

I got used to my new life and forgot the past one.

The lady taught me a lot.

Housework, sewing and embroidery.

Khadiga taught me to read.

When she sat before me

she'd read and I'd hear her.

I thought I was in another world

with alien people.

"She told him with streaming tears:

Do you thus abandon me?

Where is your great love?

He answered coldly.

Speak not of love.

What we had wasn't love.

She said with tears choking her:

But in the name of love, you asked for everything.

He said: I tricked you.

Man never gives his life to a woman who'd be tricked

nor believes she who succumbs to him won't succumb to others.

He left, never to return

Samira decided to punish herself by death

for accepting to be tricked. She headed for the river...

- She jumped in?! - I don't know.

- The tutor's here. - Hide the book.

Oh night... oh night.

How strange the deer

chased by a coward.

A so-called hunter and actually a coward and jerk.

Well well, lady Hanadi.

I await you at the mill till I'm exhausted while you're here?

- I came back early. - Oh.

Why are you crying?

Hanadi... speak, why are you crying?

It's nothing.

If you don't complain, it shows.

Mum, why is Hanadi in tears?

May you both bewail your mother.

What's going on? What are you doing?

We're leaving. we've had enough.

- Where shall we go? - It's a big world.

What happened, mum? Tell me.

It can't be told.

What happened? What evil were we escaping?

What's with Hanadi? Why is she looking at the sky?

Her day is full of sorrow

and her night restless.

What is it, Hanadi? Why are you silent day and night?

The world is dark and woe to me of God's wrath.

He's all-merciful, Hanadi.

What's bothering you? Don't keep it bottled up.

Would you keep secrets from me?

Mum.

I wish I heard a good word from her to comfort me.

Amna.

You're too young and my woe with you is doubled.

I want to tell you everything,

but I'm afraid to blemish your innocent age.

If I keep silent I fear you'd fall into the same trap

and drink bitterness thinking it sweet.

Don't say you...

I can't face you for shame.

The engineer?

So I learned Hanadi's secret.

They tricked her with love.

I hadn't believed books.

They said love is trouble, regret and fear.

Now I believed.

I believed love is evil.

- Evening. - Evening.

We're strangers and wish to spend the night, mayor.

Welcome, lady.

Make yourselves at home, Hassanem.

Yes, mayor.

Take the guests in and prepare dinner for them.

- Alright. - God bless you.

Our stay with the mayor lengthened.

Whenever I asked mother where we were going,

what we were waiting for

why she watched the road,

she kept silent.

Always silent.

Her silence tormented my sister and I.

Fear filled our hearts.

Every dawn I'd ask myself:

What does the new day have in store for us?

Hanadi is pretty.

That's why we're in trouble.

Why are you cruel to Hanadi? You push her away.

Care for her, don't be unfair.

Who was unfair?

She was to both of us.

What use is it, mum?

What use is regret?

You know?

Forgive her.

- She dared to tell you. - She's broken.

She's suffered enough.

Why is the mayor's home noisy today?

Today is market day, people come to buy and sell.

How nice joy is.

Damn sorrow and those who bring it.

Damn the one who doesn't like you, dear mayor.

May your home always be open.

I read your fortune, tell the future.

When will I get rich?

Pay and I'll tell you.

It seems I must throw you in jail.

- I read fortunes. - I'll pay if I must.

Here's my money.

You're going to hell, Zanuba, you thief.

You take double price and sell a measure of wheat as two.

- Shush or I'll tell the mayor. - Who else to support you?

- That was before. - I read fortunes.

Throw in money, lassie.

Steer clear of us.

Are you still gloomy, aunt?

Why? What is it, aunt? If you're worried, let's worry together.

Did your husband remarry?

Was your son enlisted? Daughter's a spinster?

I'm not envious.. they're pretty.

- Just be quiet. - Forget woes, they forget you.

You, sweet girl.

Come, let me see your future

I alone will see her future.

I'll find you a job that'll dress you in gold.

Stay away from her, Zanuba.

Whisper in here.

Rubbish, follow Zanuba and you'll win.

Amna, come here.

Did they tell you we snatch daughters?

Your mum will ruin your future.

Just between us, when you're in trouble

Zanuba's at your service Ask for me, they'll guide you.

I said come here, girl.

In the name of Allah.

What, auntie?

Listen, girl.

Two men on your path.

One is of your blood and wants to hurt you.

Speak on..

The other hurt you but loves you a lot.. right?

Go on.

You're about to travel.

Safely or not?

May God remove all your burdens and troubles.

Hanadi, come here.

- What is it, mum? - Your uncle's arrived.

Who told him where we were?

At the last market I sent him a messenger.

Why, mother?

Our village is best for us.

She wants us to return.

What did it bring us but cruelty and ruthlessness?

I wish it collapses before we arrive.

I'm uneasy, Amna.

- Mum might tell my uncle. - Don't say that.

I see no good ahead.

The fortune-teller's words are spooky.

Afraid of a fortune-teller?

Fortune-tellers know nothing; they say the same to all.

Each man amid two women and each woman two men.

I know my men.. the one to hurt me is my uncle.

I know the one who hurt me but wants me.

- God punish him. - God forgive him.

- You ask forgiveness? - Yes.

- You still want him? - I can't hate him.

I wish I could hate and forget him.

After all that happened? If I were you..

Don't, Amna. One day you'll know love.

Your husband often shamed many women.

What evil he sowed, your daughters will gather as thorns.

Gloating, Gaber?

I sent for you to help bring us home.

- And save your honor. - My honor!

Where's that honor?

Ask yourself.

I often told you to fear God.

To protect women.. you said we've no room among you.

After all that, you talk of honor?!

Early tomorrow, we'll return to the village.

Stop, Amna.

Get your mother down.

- Will we sleep here? - So you can be comfortable.

No, uncle, no!!

Hanadi!

Hanadi!

You did it, Gaber?

Hanadi is not to be mourned.

Hanadi... Hanadi.

Get well soon, Amna.

Where's Hanadi?

Hanadi...

Hanadi was here and spoke to me.

Where's Hanadi?

Rest. rest.

Stay away from me.

All of you stay away.

Crying for me?

For us?

Why didn't you weep before?

When you turned us out of the village?

Hanadi.

We'll leave, she may calm down.

Where's Hanadi, mum? Where's Hanadi, mum?

It's God's will, child.

God's will or my uncle's?

God never wills evil.

Your uncle acted treacherously.

He promised safe-haven, intending evil.

You joined him.

You killed her too.

You both killed her.

No, Amna, don't say that.

Don't touch me.

Amna.

Hanadi's my daughter.

I can't sleep

with Hanadi in the dust.

God knows the suffering I'm in.

I pray to God you suffer more.

May God avenge me on you and uncle.

Stop it.

Where's Hanadi, uncle?

She died of the plague. you know that.

Hide your hands, uncle.

Hanadi's blood drips from them.

I said Hanadi died of the plague.

Died of the plague?

Zuhra.

Zuhra..

I stayed long in the village.

If you follow your daughter we're lost.

I'm going to the Wahat early tomorrow.

Don't you dare let the girl speak.

The plague that took Hanadi might take her too.

Bye, Gaber.

May God help you win, God willing.

Amna is entrusted to you.

Take care of the girl.

If you don't cure her

I swear I'll handle her.

Amna.

Where are you?

Why don't you answer?

Amna.

Amna.

Mum, mum..

Amna returned.

What's wrong, Amna?

Answer me, dear. What's wrong?

You're much better now.

Thanks, lady.

You had us worried. We looked everywhere.

When Shaaban said you left the room we said: Shame.

She didn't even say goodbye.

My sister was in peril.

- We took her to the village. - How is she now?

She met her God, my lady.

It's God's will, child.

Stop it, Amna, for my sake.

Two beautiful girls,

one called Hanadi, the other Amna.

- Have you seen them? - No, aunt.

They were with me, lost their way.

Call her, girls.

Tell her your mother's dying for her two daughters.

My dear child,

I hear her calling me: Mum, mum.

Hanadi... Amna.

Life in the commissioner's home was unchanged.

I alone changed.

The first Amna wasn't the one to return.

Another one did.

Living with shadows.

Thinking only of Hanadi

and the engineer who seduced her and caused her death.

How did he win her heart?

How did he seduce her?

These thoughts tormented me.

I would make the rounds of the house Hanadi lived in

and left for her death.

Here she met love.

It handed her happiness with one hand, woe with the other.

Here she knew the engineer.

I wonder how he looks.

What's he doing?

Does he remember her?

He was her life.

What was she to him?

- Why are you here? - Just standing.

Why near the garden? You're a thief.

- Me? No way, I'm poor. - I've seen you here before.

We'll go to the police.

Police ! Please, don't.

Gently, will you? Why are you here?

Speak.

I'm looking for Hanadi.

You know Hanadi?

She's my kinswoman and friend.

Why didn't you say so before?

Hanadi left a long time ago.

Hanadi, who's she?

She was here before you.

But, pardon me, she was prettier.

Don't know why she didn't stay.

She left your ugly face.

Was Hanadi your friend?

Yes, see you.

Have some tea with me.

- I'm late. - Do you work?

- With the commissioner. - So you're close.

The kettle is on Come drink with me.. come.

- Nice home. - Because you're in It.

- Have you been here long? - Three months.

Come in.

The gardener says I stayed long.

The engineer likes a change.

- Comfortable? - Frankly, I am.

There's no lady to yell.

I'm the lady of the house.

- That your room? - No, that one.

How's the commissioner's home?

Do they have young men?

- Was it Hanadi's room? - Yes.

- What? - I remembered her.

I haven't seen her for ages.

I don't know why she left.

Whoever works with the engineer stays forever.

He's sweet and decent.

- His picture? - Yes.

Oh-oh, master's here, I'll let you out the back.

Come along, please.

We'll go to market, huh?

- Take my jacket off. - Yes, master.

Come here.. why are you so pretty today?

Only today, master?

- Come here, girl. - And the jacket?

There it goes.

Not now, master ! Not now!

The one you died for forgot you.

He forgot you.

But your sister won't.

Your death won't be in vain.

Woe to the cheat I'll play a role with.

I vow to you.

Rest in peace, sister.

Your sister will lie in vigil till she avenges you.

Amna, come here, girl.

Where were you?

I... I...

Why are you disheveled?

Goodness me.. don't, child.

Once I find you talking to yourself, once weeping alone.

Wake up, girl.

Go clean yourself.

Twenty... no way.

Amna is worth gold.. but I have none.

Amna's dowry is 40, or you won't come near her.

Too much.

To marry a decent girl, you pay.

I'll pay.

Here's another 10.

It's another 10 to make 40.

- Before the wedding you'll have it. - Why?

You have a gold ring. Give it to me.

It's God's will.

The Fatiha. in Allah's name.

Yes, lady.

- What's wrong, Amna? - Nothing, lady.

You're strange lately.

I know you're sorry for your sister, but It's no use.

Tell me, Amna.

Do you notice nothing strange around the house?

No, lady.

I think they're arranging something.

What, I don't know?

Listen, if you hear anything tell me.

- Don't hide it. - Sure, lady.

I'll go see mum and dad.

Khadiga's too young to be responsible for a home.

Young, or is it that you can't bear to part with her?

Why the rush?

No reason, I'm happy this way.

Suitors suck up to me daily.

The police officer goes about all the time,

- saluting me. - Lucky you.

When the physician comes to visit,

he shuts the window behind me lest I catch cold.

He sent you a gift... vitamins.

Must be a sample he got.

Anyway, I don't like him.

I heard he's stingy.

I know you need a spendthrift.

I have such a guy..

Every morning the best roses are on my desk.

Who puts roses on your desk?

The chief guard.

Why are you out of your room? Are you still up?

Sorry, mum.. I wanted to ask mum about a difficult word.

What is it?

Why are you congregating around me like...?

It's quite simple. Mum knows.

- What is it, mum? - You tell her, Hussein.

I'll explain it tomorrow.

I forgot my glasses in the office.

- Goodnight, mum. - Goodnight, love.

- Did she notice? - I think not.

- She's too naive. - Like her dad.

Amna, Amna

I found out their secret.

Dad gets suitors every day and has decided to marry me off.

Congratulations, ma'am, God bless you.

No, it's early yet, I haven't approved

I must like him.. I'm marrying him, not dad.

He must be thin

and have a moustache like dad's

to hear Salama Hegazy and visit the Luna Park.

What's with the ironing-man? The engineer's coming.

Wait a couple of minutes.

Thank God you're here. Take it to him.

Why are you dressed up? Who's coming?

Who knows? Your dad won't say.

- The suit, dad. - Give it.

- No. - Stop being naughty.

You don't iron the suit to meet anyone. Who's coming?

Good girls don't ask.

Off to your room. I want you to vanish.

- Why? - Because!

Hurry, get the door, and show the guest into the living room

ls the commissioner in?

Is the commissioner in?

Where shall I go?

Amna, Amna. Here.

Hurry.

Amna, do you like his looks?

I said vanish into your room.

- Wait. - What now?

- Let me shine your dull badge. - OK.

As I told you, play hard to get or he'll think us desperate.

Tell him, I'll think it over and see.. she's too young.

I get it.. too young and I can't snatch her from you.

Now go.

Hello, Mr. Engineer.

- Welcome. - Hello, commissioner.

- Be seated, nice to have you. - Thanks.

Welcome to our home.

Thank you.

Rather than syrup, may he taste bitterness like my sister.

Or even poison.

Poison.

That's the solution.

Frankly, I can't tell you yet.

Why not? Have you heard something?

Not at all, son.. we hear great things of you.

He tricked you.. you're fooled.

His smile conceals evil and treachery.

Here.

That's not the problem, but her mother.

Khadiga is young yet

I can't convince her mother to part with her.

I promise to try.

Since you'll try, I expect the best.

Sure.. it must be the best.

When can I tell my parents to come?

Next Friday?

Next Friday is too soon.. no way !

On second thoughts, OK.

You heard them agreeing to Friday?

Why then are they this late?

I'm afraid dad asked too much dowry

or jewelry.. they've come out.

I wish I'd see him.

Move a bit, dad.

His face is cute, right?

You'll see him when he gives you the jewels.

The engineer made the house his own.

Whenever he comes to visit, I think of poison.

I kept patient,

delaying the day of revenge.

Engagement day.

Trills filled the house.

No one felt the fire within my heart.

Why did you leave the engagement party?

Tonight no gloomy thoughts. Get up.

You didn't even congratulate me.

Haven't you noticed?

- Congratulations. - You say it so coldly.

- Don't you like it? - It's lovely.

Why the frown then? Oh, I see.

You think you'll stay with mum.

I'll never leave you

I'll take you to the groom's home.

His home? If only you knew who the groom is.

The comely face hides an ungrateful heart.

A criminal with no conscience.

What do I do? Leave her to rejoice.

If I really love her,

I must expose his secret to protect her.

They all went to sleep.

I stayed up alone,

wrapped up in darkness.

Darkness in my heart.

- Who is it? - Amna.

What's wrong? Are you still up?

Why didn't you go to bed?

I wish to tell you something.

But promise not to tell a soul.

Fear not. the commissioner's on duty. I'm alone.

What do you wish to say?

I told her what happened to Hanadi.

I feared she'd forgive him.

Thanks for telling me, child.

Who knows how we'd have handled such a marriage?

Forgive me. My fear for Khadiga made me speak.

Please, don't tell her I'm behind this.

Don't worry.

At dawn, I found myself on the road,

confused and wondering:

Where do I go and to whom?

I remembered the mayor's home

and the things Zanuba told me.

Why are you standing there?

You after a stimulant too?

- Don't you remember me? - Zanuba, weigh properly.

You still have your money Don't bother me.

If you cheat, you'll go to hell.

You're the fortune girl.

What happened to your rosy face?

- Life isn't easy. - Right you are. Well?

- Zanuba, phone call. - OK.

- When you have time. - Alright, lovie.

Go on upstairs. I'll be right there.

Your sister died of the plague, hey?

It's her destiny.

Why quit the commissioner's home?

I've no more work there.

Hiding it from Zanuba?

Maybe his hands wandered?

The commissioner? He's a kind man.

He never offended me.

You're beating about the bush.

Are you dumb, or playing dumb?

Tell me, are you in trouble?

Did someone trick you?

I'm like your mother.. tell me.

I'm looking for work.

Have you rethought what I told you in the past?

You seem to be having fun.

It's you who are acting stupid.

Didn't you notice how the guys went nuts for you?

Don't you like any of them?

Do you prefer gentlemen?

It was wrong of me to come.

Are you offended? Amna.

Come here..

I'm terribly sorry. Be seated.

Sit, Amna.

Sit, conservative one, and tell me what work you prefer.

Sweeping, kneading or cooking?

Any honest job that'll give me shelter.

Shelter? Stay here, Amna.

You'll keep me company till God helps

and sends you a job.

I was fond of you when I first saw you.

I've been Zanuba's guest for a week.

She's talkative but kind.

I wonder what happened to Khadiga.

I want to know.

Oh, Amna,

after you left they got jinxed.

The engineer broke it off.

Oh no, the commissioner kicked him out.

You know our commissioner.

He checked up on him and exposed his past.

People say he had himself transferred out of town.

Go in peace, Khadiga.

I'm deprived even a farewell.

It's always my luck with the train.

It always fills me with sorrow and pain.

Lady Zanuba.

Lady Zanuba.

Goodness gracious!

What is it, Amna?

Can you get me to work for the engineer?

Is that why you woke me?

Is that why you're up'?

Why do you want to work for him?

I just want to.

So that's why you refused all other homes.

The engineer so honorable?

- Hand me my reward. - Done?

Starting tomorrow, you'll earn your living.

And Sekina?

You're sorry for her?

She's working for the physician with extra pay.

This is Zanuba you're talking to.

I know what you wish to say.

I haven't forgotten Hanadi's vendetta.

Early tomorrow, I'll be in the house my sister lived in,

but mine won't be a similar fate.

Your blood won't go in vain.

- Good morning. - Morning

- ls the engineer in? - Yes.

You! Hello, hello.

You'll be honoring us here.

Tell the engineer it's Zanuba.

Alright.

Did you come here before?

My friend worked here.

- Come in. - Let's go.

Come in.

- Good morning, Mr. Engineer. - Morning, Zanuba.

- I brought her. - Where'd I see you before?

She's unforgettable. Used to work for the commissioner.

Oh, you're Amna.

- Your servant. - Why not go with them?

- Don't want to be estranged. - Well done.

You'll be very pleased with Amna.

It shows.

Amna, you're now in charge of the house.

I guarantee her.. fear not.

We'll see..

I must go now. Show her the ropes, will you?

Yes, sir.

Have a nice day.

- Evening, sir. - Good evening, Bassiouny.

- Yes, sir. - Why are you still up?

- I feared you'd need me. - Good girl.

The others slept early I had to wake them.

I've served before and know what's proper.

Anything you need?

Light the lamp.

Why do you tremble? Are you cold?

Not at all.

Scared?

- Shall I prepare dinner? - No, I ate at the club.

Take my jacket to my room.

What's this, sir? Don't, please.

God bless you. Leave me, please.

See you're scared? How come you served before?

Why are you here?

Come in.

Good morning, sir.

- Can you make coffee? - Yes.

Listen.

Why are you shaky?

I'm not. Why should I be?

I don't like to wake up to a frown. Smile!

You seem really upset.

- Did I annoy you last night? - A bit.

I'm sorry. Tell me, Amna.

Yes.

Have you heard of liquor?

Yes, they use it to get drunk.

I have a couple of glasses a night, then..

My body's taken over, I'm another person.

Then the liquor is to blame.

That's it.

No need to tremble, fear me only at night.

Where did you work before the commissioner's?

Nowhere.

- Never worked for bachelors? - Never.

Do you know why they broke off the engagement?

Such things aren't said before the help.

Even if they were, you wouldn't notice.

- You're silly. - How true!

Khadiga is decent, God loves her.

She was in for some fall.

Why? You're unmatched.

I'm not the marrying kind. Why tie myself down?

Catch.

You pretend to be cautious when approaching me.

- Please leave me, master. - Struggle all you like.

Now you know I left you willingly.

You can't outsmart me.. others have tried.

- Good morning, Dr. Zaki. - Thanks.

- What for? - For Sekina.

Did you inherit something?

Zanuba did some maneuvering.

- Will you come to the club? - No.

I must finish a report.

- So you'll hide at home? - Let's go see his report.

I can't have distractions.

- I see. - I see, Mr. Engineer.

Can you sing?

No.

Dance?

Good gracious!

- Shameful? - So they say.

But serving bachelors isn't?

If you're so devout why work here?

It's my livelihood.

Either you're really naive or really rancorous.

Drink.

- No master, please. - I said drink.

I might get dizzy.

Dizzy? ls that bad?

I drink a whole bottle daily to get dizzy

and forget.

- Forget what? - Myself.

I'm the only person I can't stand meeting.

Why?

As soon as I place my head on the pillow, interrogations.

And blame.

Why blame? Did you anger God?

Not deliberately.

My sins are an escape.

You wouldn't understand.

But I'll tell you anyway.

Instead of telling myself.

Sometimes one tells the walls.

What do you escape?

Loneliness.

Rural life is nothing but dull loneliness.

Each day is like the next.

Mornings, passing by bridges.

Nights, playing at the club

with the same friends.

Dullness shapes them too.

Their minds and thoughts froze.

They're like broken records.

They repeat old jokes only to laugh again

and repeat their degraded stories.

Their only pastime

is one girl going, another coming

to play lead role -

in the filthy story.

Hanadi goes, Sekina comes?

Why Hanadi? Do you know her?

She's my friend.

She was nice.. know where she went?

God relieved her of serving bachelors.

- Did she marry? - She rested.

You know, you're like Hanadi.

- In looks? - In nature.

She too was hostile, but you're more adamant.

The first glass dizzied Hanadi.

But you'd dizzy a whole town.

- Where will you sleep? - Same as last night.

But you must know.

That room's haunted. I'm not to blame if a ghost scares you.

Only humans are ghosts.

Hey, human,

if you're afraid, sleep on the rug before my bed.

I don't mind.

Thanks, but I mind.

Why do you mind?

When you drink, your body's taken over.

You said so this morning.

What I say by day, don't believe by night.

Nor by day what you say at night?

Stop it ! Go fill my glass and bring it to my room.

The glass.

Come sit down.

Come.. closer.

I said stop fearing me.

Give us a kiss.. not by force, willingly.

First, drink.

- Promise? - Yes.

- Won't change your mind? - No.

Are you mad?

You see, I...

Oh, you don't want to keep your promise.

See you changed your mind?

Go get me another glass.

Why did I? It's tough to kill.

How could your heart bear it, uncle?

Forgive me, Hanadi.

I'll never be able to kill.. never!

Tell me, Zuhra, where did Amna go?

Did she repeat Hanadi's act?

Why are you silent? Speak.

Covering up for her'?

I'll search the whole province.

I must find her.

- What did you do? - Patience.

Gaber, in truth there's no timidity. I want my money

I didn't deny it.

We recited the Fatiha. Amna's yours.

Where is she? Who's gone never returns.

Please give me my money. Let's be friends.

You're right and not to blame.

Amna's not into our sordid life. She's used to city life.

Don't speak ill of her.

Sooner or later, Amna will return.

Bassiouni... hey, Bassiouni.

- Yes, Mr. Engineer. - Where's Amna?

Went out at dawn.

- Did she say where? - No.

- Make me breakfast. - Yes, sir.

Find me another job, aunt Zanuba.

What? You hate the engineer already?

He's indecent.

Indecent? Say that again.

I took you to decent homes; you insisted on him.

He was your only hope, now you don't like him.

I didn't think he'd be so mischievous whenever he's home.

My, my!

He stays home for you, little princess?!

All the more reason to stay.

Stay till he scandalizes me?

Stay and play hard to get, girl.

Since he likes you, ask for anything you like.

I can never get what I want from him.

If he's fond of you, he'll hold nothing back.

Do as I say.

In my youth, I too was pretty.

When I set eyes on a man,

I never let go till I got what I wanted.

Don't be silly.

Men, like fish, see the bait, not the rod.

Some like sweet words.

Others like a sleepy-eyed look.

First, let him take the bait, then draw him in.

Then you can please or torment him.

Not him.. he's my master.

Don't be silly.. with two people under one roof

beauty is the master A man, however high in rank

when unseen, will throw himself at your feet.

Why should he?

Love works wonders.

There used to be a cute guy,

educated, and of a family,

He loved me.. I couldn't reciprocate.

I couldn't help repulsing him.

One can't control one's heart.

To forget me.. he sniffed cocaine, chewed opium

then killed himself.

- He died? - God forgive me.

If I were sure the engineer would love me so,

and meet the same fate, I'd stay.

Why harm him?

He harmed me.

Evening, master.

Where were you this morning?

I went to get my clothes from aunt Zanuba.

I thought you'd escaped.

It would have been a shame to miss out on my gift.

Really? You got me something?

How do you like this choker?

- For me? - No, for me.

Don't mock me.. I'm gullible.

Just try it on.

- I've lived to see gold-plated. - It's 21 ct. gold.

You're so kind. I didn't think you so.

Let me show you how it's worn.

God bless you, sir.

I wouldn't even dream of wearing gold.

There's more to come.. I'll hold nothing back.

Sir, being naughty again?

Still hostile? I thought you'd wised up.

Fear not, come.

Show me your eyes.

Here.

- I'm scared. - What did you see?

You have evil intents.

What should I swear by so you'd believe?

Don't swear, or you'd be lying.

- If only you'd wise up. - No, sir.. no.

You and your games!

- You and your love. - Love?

Think you can trick me?

Why? Who's fairer than you?

Thanks. I'm naive but I know beauty's found everywhere.

No other girl is in my heart.

Your poor heart! I don't measure up.

You sell yourself short.

You'll see when I clothe you from Farnawam

and gold covers your arms.

I'll take you to Cairo,

to the zoo and the Luna Park.

People will ask who the girl in my chariot is.

No, no.. good grief!!

What's the end of it?

- I won't open. - Don't be silly.

I can't bear your sweet words.

Good night, sir.

- You won't open up? - In the morning.

Days went by.

My smile fooled him,

as did my undelivered promises.

The fish took the bait.

Rejection fueled his desire.

The locked door hooked him all the more.

Open up, Amna.

By day he's preoccupied.

By night sleepless.

The torment of love began

and I started to realize

I would soon see him kneeling at my feet.

What a move! You're absent-minded.

Leave me.. I'm not with you.

ls she still playing hard to get?

Yes, she's driving me nuts.

You're strange. Why are you so attached to her?

Her adamancy.

If she were easy, I wouldn't think of her.

I'm so annoyed I can't win her over.

- She may be honorable. - I think not.

The way she treats me is anything but honorable.

Whenever I think I've got her, things backfire

and she turns honorable.

Then she loves another.

They're like that.

She turns down riches and finds a fellow of her class

to live with in a chicken pen.

- Like to be rid of her? - How?

I'm going to Cairo. come with me.

Spend a few days with Sonia.

I promise you'll return refreshed

and forget all about Amna.

What do you say?

I'm in no mood.

Stay and admire your lovely princess!

Bassiouni.

- Yes, sir. - Why didn't you answer me?

- I was sleepy. - Who's inside?

- No one. - Move.

- Where's Amna? - I'm here, sir.

Are you looking for me?

What are you doing up there? Can't hear me call?

I heard. I was on my way.

- I'll miss you, sir. - Really?

Yes. How long will you be?

Long enough for you to meet him.

- Who? - The guy you love.

- Oh my goodness! - I know your tricks.

Think I believe you love no one?

Never, sir. I swear.

Then why play hard to get and make me suffer?

I told you. I don't measure up!

I told you love knows no class.

What must I do to prove it?

Kneel at your feet? I'm kneeling.

Amna, I'm tormented. I think of you day and night.

Shame on you! You didn't visit Cairo all this time'?

Unbelievable.

Have you stopped loving me?

Cheers.

I've never seen you drink so much.

Saneya, there's a girl who's evading me.

Poor thing.. in love?

Love? I never love.

I desire her.

Since you admire her so, why not marry her?

Marry'? If I could humiliate her after I get her, I would.

Upset that she protects herself?

Want her to keep giving in -

till one day she ends up like me?

I didn't mean it.. forgive me.

I'll have a glass.

A glass?

A glass and a kiss. We're at your service.

If you'll forget.

What is it about your gender that drives men nuts?

If you knew what we were like, you wouldn't go nuts.

- Welcome back, sir. - Thanks.

You stayed in Cairo for long.

Oh, yeah? Anyone ask for me while I was gone?

No, bless you sir.

Did you get me something?

Had no time.. next week.

Will you go to Cairo every week?

If you don't mind.

Since he returned from Cairo, he's changed.

After kneeling at my feet, I feel him slipping away.

- Did you give in? - Shame.

- He never touched me. - Good girl.

But beware, when a man gets nowhere,

he's bored and quits.

Do I get Sheik Wahdan to put a spell on him?

The spell is yours.

Be nice, then rude.

Push and pull.

I'm afraid the signora from Cairo will snatch him away.

- What signora? - She blotted lipstick on his hankie.

What a girl!

Do you love him behind my back?

- Me love him? - Why so keen then?

I won't have him slip away.

You like the game?

The naive kitten's grown.

- What should I do? - Increase the bait.

But take care,

lest the fire you use against him burn you.

Master.

Why are you sleeping here?

I'm scared. I thought I heard something move in my room.

- What could it be? - You said it was haunted.

Shall I sleep here?

Sleep in your room. Don't be silly. You'd scare a ghost.

Oh, my!

Why are you sitting here?

It's hot, so I came out in the open air.

Hot? Or is something moving in the house?

I feel a bit dizzy.

I drank some of the bottle to see what it's like to be drunk.

- And did you? - I think so

I'm happy and want to laugh and can't sleep.

So it's not the heat. Come to bed then.

Why're you laughing?

You're so serious since returning from Cairo.

It doesn't suit you.

Isn't it what you want?

Master.

What?

- When do you go to Cairo? - Why?

So you can take me with you.

Don't you need a servant there?

Exactly what do you want?

Nothing, master. Please.

- I'll tell you what you want. - No, master.

Please don't, master.

Open up, Amna.

Please, master, I beg you.

If you scandalize me, I won't live.

Be gone tomorrow morning.

I don't want you in my house any more.

Abu Hemeid.

Yes, sir.

Why'd you let me sleep here?

I tried to wake you, but you slapped me

I'm sorry. Make me a cup of coffee.

Alright.

Bassiouni, has Amna left?

- A while ago. - Did she say where to?

She'll probably stay with Zanuba till she finds work.

- Come back home. - You kicked me out.

I said come back.

We'll be back at square one. You'll take offence.

I promise not to bother you again.

Better let me go.

Trust me this time. If I do anything, call me a bastard.

Why? I can go and another come.

No, if you weren't indispensable I wouldn't follow you.

If I hadn't caught up with you, I'd live to regret it.

Come back, Amna.

Sir, your father's arrived from Cairo.

- When? - A short time ago.

Thanks.

Welcome back, dad. What a surprise!

What can I do if my only son

is boycotting Cairo and his dad?

I never could. Coffee, Amna.

It seems you can.

Can you explain

why you don't visit me in Cairo weekly like you used to -

when you begged me to get you transferred?

It was no use, so I decided to settle down.

So we agree.

I'm here to ask you to settle down.

Pick one of these.

What are these?

This one has 3 buildings.

This one, 3000 feddans.

This one, 50,000 pounds in her account.

Pick one of them.

I'll show the commissioner who turned us down

that I condescended to ask for his girl.

Dad, please don't force me.

What? May I ask why?

I must see and talk to the girl I marry.

How nice!

Must you dance with her too?

We're real foreigners now!

She and I must reach an understanding.

I must be sure she can be my partner in life.

Stuff and nonsense!

Partner, indeed!

I'm talking of marriage, not a trade deal.

I know you want me to start a family.

Listen, I didn't send you to school

so you could defy me and be cunning.

It's bad enough what I hear.

- What do you hear? - Never mind.

You know what I mean.. just pick one.

Dad, I beg of you to humor me.

I can't marry a girl just because she's rich.

I must love her.

How could you let your dad leave upset?

When will you go reconcile him?

Do you want to get rid of me? I won't go.

You don't like any of them?

I like another girl.

- She lives in Cairo? - In my heart.

I wonder who.

One day you'll know her.

- You'll show her to me? - Sure.

If you don't like her, I won't marry her.

- How do you know I'll like her? - I know your taste.

When you smile, you look different.

Stop it.

Don't frown.. smile all the time.

Did I envy you the smile?

No, I heard the curlew.

That makes you frown?

It sings: Yours is the kingdom, oh King.

Or sometimes: To You I complain, oh King.

You're well-versed in bird talk.

- Of whom does it complain? - Who knows?

I never noticed what it sings.

How would you notice?

At dawn you're fast asleep.

At night, too busy.

When I was young, I woke early to trap it.

You've always been cruel.

Don't be silly. In the trap it's in my hand.

It's mine. What use is it on the tree?

It's free to sing to you.

But captive in your hand, it'll never forgive you.

- You'll make me regret it. - What use is regret?

I wish I knew you long ago to learn compassion.

Learn compassion from another. My heart is stone.

You?

What embittered your heart?

A man like you

who likes to set traps.

Did you ever fall in love, Amna?

I had a sister who fell in love. It killed her.

How? Tell me.

I told you. She was trapped.

In our village, a girl who gives in must die.

What did her lover do? He let her die?

Hunters never give fallen prey a second thought.

They look for new prey.

It's her fault for not protecting herself.

The bird is always at fault.

The hunter's never to blame.

- Her name is Amna. - Amna?

Oh, she's the Bedouin girl

who served the commissioner who was transferred.

Might she have moved with him?

No, I imagine I saw her a few days ago.

Where did I see her? Where?

Lunch is served, sir.

Just in time. I'm starved.

- Eat with me, Amna. - Thanks, sir.

Don't let me eat alone.

That's it.

Amna, since you came to my home,

I no longer feel as lonely.

Isn't that peculiar?

- Eat, Amna. - I'm not hungry, sir.

- Here, lady. - Thanks. I've troubled you.

At your service, lady.

- Something wrong, sir? - No.

You're truly a lady.

Please, don't ridicule me.

You made me sit by you, I didn't object.

Now, you'll call me a lady?

How's a lady better?

I can't face you for shame, Amna.

May God forgive him.

Amna, open up.

Neither of us could help what happened.

I thought my feelings towards you just another whim

that would go away with time, I was wrong.

I can't fool myself any longer.

I love you, Amna, and you love me.

Me? I hate you.. I hate you.

I'll always hate you.

You say that thinking I'm deceiving you as before.

Believe me, when I embraced you

my conscience was clear, my heart free of evil

for the first time ever.

You're my first love and my last.

I can't live without you.. will you marry me?

Why are you silent?

Think I'm fooling you as you always accused me?

Or will you repeat I'm master and you serve me?

In love, there's no master or slave.

Answer me.. will you marry me?

No way!!

Why torment me?

I tormented you?!

You're the one who tormented us.

I entered this house to see you suffer,

to see you kneel at my feet,

to see in your eyes the tears of all those you seduced.

Remember when I told you I had a sister killed by love?

She was Hanadi.

Hanadi's your sister?

She died because of you.

My uncle killed her.

He killed her, the victim

and let you the culprit live freely.

You never thought of her.

Never wondered where she went or how she was.

Living, or enclosed in some dust, far kinder to her than you.

Why would you think of her?

Hanadi was a servant.

Her life was cheap, her honor worthless.

Hanadi's your sister?

I wish you'd killed me rather than let me live in torment.

That's what I was after when I came into this house.

Nice to have you.

Thank you.

- Dinner? - No thanks.

We have plenty

I've had dinner.

Have you been with the engineer long?

- Years. - ls he good to you?

Very much so.

Tell me,

I know an orphan who wants to serve him.

I think not.

His current servant pleases him well.

Pleases him how?

She does what he wants?

Not Amna. She's not like that.

You're naive.

She's a girl.. he's a bachelor.

How do you know what happens behind closed doors?

I'm clever enough and have a way.

If you asked me of Sekina who was here before her

I'd say yes.

Another girl, Hanadi, showed signs in a few months.

Sure.

But this one...

I swear he never touched her.

Not all girls are easy.

Right you are.

It only happens to loose girls who have no family.

Family indeed!!

If there were a family, why would girls suffer?

Amna.

Don't leave me.

I spent all night thinking of what you said,

the truth I learned is worse than my prior ignorance.

Now we must never part.

Our torment can only be borne if we're together.

We can only see the path walking hand in hand.

Hanadi will always be between us.

Amna.

Don't let the dead sentence the living to suffering.

Forget the past, look to the future.

The future died when Hanadi did.

So you can't forgive me?

You're my life. Parting with you means death.

If you leave me, you haven't withheld revenge.

Revenge on myself

for betraying Hanadi and myself.

One day I thought of tormenting you with love.

I never thought my weapon could hurt me too.

Don't think I'm leaving intact.

I prefer your resentful look by my side

to feeling your love at a distance.

Amna.

Before you leave say you forgive me.

Watch out for yourself, master.

Master, my uncle's here, intending evil.

Master... master.

Bassiouni... Bassiouni.

Master.

This is my happiest moment,

to see love in your eyes.

My life's not too precious for you.

It's the only dowry.

That could reconcile us.

Master!!

The curlew's call.

I wonder if its voice echoed thus,

when Hanadi was slain in this open space.

The End