1/2 Revolution

January 2011 — downtown Cairo — a close-knit group of friends struggle to stay alive and stick together as waves of protests escalate around them in their neighborhood near Tahrir Square during the first chaotic days of the Egyptian Revolution. Armed with cameras and focused determination, directors Omar Shargawi and Karim El Hakim take to the streets to capture a view of the revolution unlike any other. Shot from street level and featuring stunning on-the-ground footage of history in the making, 1/2 REVOLUTION is one of a kind real-life action thriller.

Karim El Hakim

Karim El Hakim

Karim El Hakim

By Kelsey Marsh, Angeli Gabriel, Bryan Bello

Karim El Hakim is a renowned director and director of photography who has contributed to numerous award-winning political documentaries about the Middle East. His latest film “1/2 Revolution” is a personal, intimate story from the Arab Spring: a group of friends living in downtown Cairo struggle to stay together during the first chaotic days of the Egyptian Revolution.

El Hakim recounts his experience on the front lines of the Revolution; providing insight into Egypt’s current state of affairs as well as its relationship with Western Powers and the reaction the film has acquired in these regions. He also advises documentary filmmakers about proper techniques and storytelling structure. Watch his interview unfold and check out the film’s website for more information

Download Transcript: 1.2_revolution_transciption

Backpack vs. Professional Journalism

Director Karim El Hakim explains the concept of backpack journalism and how it has affected the Arab Revolution

Film Evolved Into Documentary

El Hakim describes how he and Omar prepared to film the documentary

Personal Motivation

Karim elaborates on his personal motivation for making the film.

Security Issues

El Hakim comments on the tight security in Egypt and how it affected the filming of 1/2 Revolution.

Family vs. Filming

Karim expands on how he separated family and filming while still maintaining coverage of the Revolution.

Balance of Emotions

El Hakim tells us how he maintained focus on filming while balancing his own emotions and the emotions of those around him.

Why '1/2 Revolution'?

El Hakim explains the deeper meaning of the title 1/2 Revolution.

Western Influence in Revolution

Karim details the history of influence from the Western world in Egypt.

Effects Of Film

El Hakim answers how the effects of the film will shape his future as a filmmaker.

Egypt Screening

Karim talks about the film’s screenings in Egypt and other Arab nations.

Future Screenings

Karim discusses the film’s future screenings abroad.

Advice For Filmmakers

El Hakim provides strategies and insight for aspiring filmmakers.