Egypt Zoo Story: Middle Class Struggles Unfold

Egyptian director Omar Hilal's latest film, "His Weakest Creatures," delves into the socio-economic landscape of Egypt through a powerful analogy. The narrative unfolds in Cairo in 2007, a time described as "kinder" and less critical than the present day. The film centers on a zoologist, portrayed by Ahmed Helmy, whose personal struggles are mirrored by the deteriorating condition of the Giza Zoo, once hailed as the "Jewel of Africa."

Hend Sabri joins Helmy as his wife, a homemaker navigating modest means and an unexpected pregnancy. Hilal intentionally chose this period to evoke nostalgia for a time predating the intense scrutiny of social media. The film aims to shed light on Egypt's middle class, a demographic he feels is increasingly underrepresented in contemporary cinema.

Hilal emphasizes the personal nature of the project, driven by his affection for animals and his observations of Cairo's shifting social fabric. He notes the exodus from traditional neighborhoods like Maadi to new compounds, reflecting a broader economic stratification. The casting of Helmy and Sabri was crucial for their ability to embody "real" characters, challenging the director to create a more compelling cinematic experience.