"Welad El Shams" is a powerful drama that revolves around Dar El Shams, an orphanage run by the manipulative Baba Magd (played by the brilliant Mahmoud Hemida), Hemida delivers one of the best performances of the Ramadan season, portraying a controlling father figure who psychologically manipulates both the children and staff of the orphanage for his own personal gain.
His calculated speech delivery and impeccable acting are precisely what we have come to expect from such a seasoned actor.
At the heart of the story, we see how Baba Magd exploits the children, using them for illegal activities, including drug dealing, while still maintaining his iron grip on the orphanage.
The supporting cast, including Taha El Dessouky and Ahmed Malek, play two young men who grew up in the orphanage and eventually attempt to rebel against Baba Magd's rule. Both actors delivered solid performances.
The soundtrack was very well composed and added depth to the intense moments. However, one downside of the series was the rushed pacing of the final episodes, where events transitioned too quickly, affecting the overall impact of the climax.
Overall, Welad El Shams is a gripping and thought-provoking drama with a stellar performance by Mahmoud Hemida. Despite some flaws in pacing, it remains a must-watch for those who appreciate well-crafted storytelling and strong character-driven narratives.
