In a ramadan season filled with predictable dramas, Lam Shamsiya stands apart. A fearless, gut-wrenching exploration of child abuse, pedophilia and the silent struggles within families. Written by Mariam Naoum and directed by Karim El-Shenawy, the series follows Nelly (Amina Khalil), a dedicated woman who uncovers disturbing truths about people around her, setting her on a collision course with a society that prefers to look away.
Khalil delivers a career defining performance, adding a golden moment performance to an already thriving collection of movies and dramas, portraying Nelly's determination and heartbreak with stunning authenticity. Ahmed El-Saadany adds complexity as her conflicted, troubled husband and father, while Mohamed Shaheen's chilling portrayal of Wessam is a masterclass in psychological evil -his ability to shift from charming to terrifying in an instant makes him one of the most unsettling antagonists in egyptian drama, one that is deserving of an Emmy. Young actor Ali Beialy, as Youssef, is nothing short of phenomenal, capturing the raw pain and fear of a sexually groomed child with heartbreaking realism. He is able to convey such complex emotions just with his eyes, making me believe he is capable of surpassing many full grown actors in the industry. His scenes are some of the most emotionally charged in the series, leaving a lasting impact. He is sure to have a bright future.
Visually striking and thematically bold, Lam Shamsiya uses metaphor and masterful cinematography to amplify its emotional weight. Its title, rooted in Arabic grammar, symbolizes the hidden traumas that persist in silence. More than just a series, Lam Shamsiya is a call for awareness, pushing viewers in a conservative society to confront uncomfortable truths that are not spoken about as much as they should. I strongly recommend this show for arab and international viewers alike, as it is truly a masterpiece.
Unflinching, powerful, and deeply moving, this is storytelling at its finest. A 10/10 must-watch.
