A fiery response from the director of the movie "Restart" after Tarek El-Shennawy's criticism

Egyptian art critic Tarek El-Shennawy sparked widespread controversy after making fiery statements in which he claimed the film "Restart" lacked a clear artistic vision. The film's director, Sara Wafik, considered the remarks an unjustified attack aimed solely at stirring controversy and "riding the trend," as she put it. Get the latest celebrity ads directly on the Special app, where we show you everything new from international stars.

"Restart" director responds: There's a difference between criticism and insult.

In a post on her official Instagram account, Sarah Wafik addressed El-Shenawy sharply, asserting that his criticism of the film was not based on an actual viewing of it. She said, "There's a big difference between criticism and insult. It's not right to criticize a film you haven't even watched."

She added that she sees the film as a contemporary treatment of an important issue that concerns a broad audience, noting that its revenues, which have exceeded 40 million Egyptian pounds in less than two weeks, confirm the film's popular success.

Sarah Wafik: The film discusses "the topic of the era."

Sarah Wafik rejected Tarek El-Shennawy's accusations that the film is "empty of any substance," asserting that "Restart" clearly discusses the obsession with trends and the pursuit of instant fame, which she described as "the topic of our time." She cited a sarcastic scene from the film featuring actor Mohamed Tharwat in which he says, "I'll do anything to be a trend," asserting that the film carries a clear message despite its comedic nature.

What did Tarek El-Shennawy say about "Restart"?

In a television interview, El-Shenawy described the film "Restart" as "just a bunch of exaggerated comedic dialogue," adding that director Sara Wafik didn't present any clear directorial vision. He also criticized the film's star, Hana El-Zahid, saying, "Hana El-Zahid has more acting skills than this superficial role, which lacks dramatic depth."

"Restart" Movie: Cast and Story

"Restart" is a social comedy film starring Tamer Hosny, Hana El Zahed, Basem Samra, Essam El Sakka, Mika, and Mohamed Tharwat. The screenplay was written by Ayman Bahgat Qamar and directed by Sara Wafik. This is the second collaboration between Tamer Hosny and Hana El Zahed after the success of the film "Bahebak" in 2022.

The film revolves around the character of "Mohamed," a mobile phone maintenance technician, whose life turns upside down after he enters the world of social media fame, under the influence of a digital agent known as "The Joker," who exploits the ambitions of young people to become famous by any means. As events unfold, Mohamed is forced to completely reevaluate his life and "restart" it. Enjoy interesting and useful content with an exclusive podcast that provides you with everything you need to know in just a few minutes via the Special app.

Revenue speaks: "Restart" approaches 50 million pounds Sarah Wafik pointed out that the film is achieving tremendous success at the Egyptian box office, approaching the 50 million Egyptian pound mark in less than two weeks of its release, considering this proof that the audience is the true judge. She concluded her response by saying, "That's your opinion, but the audience has spoken."