The Egyptian Censorship Committee has refused to accept the new film “Siko Siko” costarring Hala Shiha, which tackles the issue of sex education taught in schools, unless 18 scenes are deleted. The committee stressed that it will not give the green light to the film unless all the unfit scenes are removed and a new name is given for the film.
According to the London based daily, Al Sharq Al Awsat, this is the first time in 20 years that the censorship committee demands this many deletions from one film. The committee stressed that the creation of any film with such sensitive themes as teaching children about the nature of sex is in itself very inappropriate for an Arab audience and does not go with social standards.
The writer of the film stressed that the film is an educational one that enlightens the community and that he was in shock with the report given by the Censorship, which simply means destroying the film entirely in terms of meaning and ideas. He added that the film tackles important issues that reflect problems in our society in a very serious manner and it does not display any sexual or inappropriate scenes.
Hala had taken off her Islamic headdress (Hijab) after wearing it for a period of two months amidst objection from family and members of the acting world. Hala said that taking off the Hijab does not lessen her connection with God and her commitment to Islam. She added that the real Hijab is that of the heart and soul, and good manners, and not just the mere covering of the head. Hala stressed that the decision affects her alone and no one else.
Shiha is now taking part in a number of films scheduled to be out this summer. Her decision to return to acting has led her to pick off her career where she left off and is mainly focusing on films that serve for bettering humanity. It was revealed from close contacts that Hala had already received a number of offers to star in different films.
Growing up, Hala always had musical and artistic talent, as she excelled at dancing, drawing, fashion designing, piano and keyboard playing. But it wasn't until renowned actor and family friend Adel Emam encouraged her to join the academy of arts, did she think of pursuing a career in acting – Albawaba.com
© 2003 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
