The Night of Counting the Years, released in 1969, is a dramatic masterpiece directed by Shadi Abdel Salam. Set in 1881 in Egypt, the story is centered around the discovery of a hidden tomb belonging to a pharaonic dynasty that ruled Egypt over 3,000 years ago. The events of the film follow a family named the Abdeens, who have been the keepers of this hidden tomb since the Pharaonic times. The Abdeens are a group of impoverished and isolated people, living deep in the desert, who have a long-standing history of stealing artifacts from the tomb and trading them in secret. The patriarch of the family, Khaled (Ahmed Marei), is torn between two choices: to continue with the traditions of his ancestors, or to reveal the treasures and history of the tomb to the authorities.
As Khaled tries to decide what to do with the artifacts, a group of archaeologists led by Muftah (Ahmad Hegazi) arrive to excavate the tomb. When they discover that some artifacts are missing, they suspect that the Abdeens are responsible for the theft. Khaled and his family become embroiled in an intense conflict with the archaeologists, the government, and their own neighbors, who are envious of their wealth.
Tensions rise increasingly as the Abdeens struggle to maintain their traditional way of life, their security and freedom, and the dignity of ancient Egypt, all while trying to avoid imprisonment for their illegal activities. Meanwhile, the government tries to suppress them and confiscate the artifacts, while the archaeologists merely see them as historical objects to be collected and displayed.
In the midst of various threats, Khaled's wife, Nefissa (Nadia Lutfi), is integral in keeping the family together and supporting Khaled in making the most difficult decision of his life. He must decide whether the right thing to do is to continue with his ancestors' legacy or to come forward and restore the artifacts to their rightful owners, the Egyptian people.
The Night of Counting the Years is renowned for its remarkable attention to detail, stunning visuals, and authentic portrayal of ancient Egypt. The film's tone is melancholic, with a somber score and muted colors that create an almost otherworldly atmosphere. The camera work is artistic, with many long takes showing vast landscapes and slow-moving shots showing the Abdeens going about their daily lives. The film's nuanced exploration of the intersection between tradition, modernity, and colonialism make it a complex and deeply moving work of art.
In conclusion, The Night of Counting the Years is a profound and spectacular examination of the importance of preserving history and culture. It leaves a lasting impression on its viewers, as it challenges the audience to ask themselves how they would react if faced with similar circumstances. The movie is a must-see for art-house film enthusiasts and anyone interested in exploring themes such as history, tradition, and identity.
