Sons of the Sun: TV series sheds light on orphanage children
The Sons of the Sun series highlights the heartbreaking stories of orphaned children, evoking deep empathy and often overshadowing other dramas aired during Ramadan.
The series immediately captivates viewers, shedding light on children's lives in a way that lingers long after the credits roll.
While acknowledging improvements in orphanages over the past decade, Sons of the Sun delves into the harrowing experiences of children in these institutions, exposing a dark world where exploitation and recruitment into illicit activities thrive.
Blending suspense with social commentary, the series follows two childhood friends, Moftah and Welaa, who grew up together in Dar Al-Shams orphanage. Ahmed Malek and Taha Desouky deliver compelling performances in these roles.
The script, penned by Mohab Tarik, explores themes of friendship, love, murder, and revenge, evoking the spirit of the classic film Salam Ya Sahby (1987), starring Adel Imam and Saeed Saleh. However, Sons of the Sun shifts the setting from the marketplace to the orphanage, spotlighting the exploitation of children in criminal undertakings.
This narrative choice has sparked controversy in Egypt, particularly among officials overseeing orphanages under the Ministry of Social Solidarity. Despite this, the series resonates with a broad audience, tapping into a socially relevant and emotionally charged theme.
While the series effectively employs familiar tropes, it highlights certain script deficiencies, notably the lack of backstory for key female characters. Suad's (Jala Hesham) motivations for betraying Moftah remain unclear, as does Amina's (Donia Maher) decision to live and work within the orphanage. Similarly, journalist Tahani (Mariam El Gendy) lacks depth and authenticity.
A significant flaw in the script is the ambiguity surrounding Baba Majed's (Mahmoud Hemida) destructive actions against his own family. Whether fueled by greed or a dark past with his brother, his motivations remain unclear. The script focuses solely on his present actions, largely erasing his backstory.
Additionally, the script leans on overused dramatic clichés, particularly in portraying the rebellious journalist, which feels unrealistic. A more nuanced understanding of journalistic practices would have added credibility to the character.
Director Shady Abdel Salam compensates for these shortcomings through masterful cinematography and an evocative atmosphere. His drone shots and lighting enhance the drama, with the dimly lit orphanage symbolizing the children's plight. Khaled El-Gabry's powerful soundtrack and Bahaa Sultan's soulful rendition of the theme song further amplify the series' emotional impact.
The cast delivers exceptional performances. Mahmoud Hemida excels as the psychopathic villain, Taha Desouky captures Moftah's emotional turmoil with depth, and Ahmed Malek continues to showcase his artistic growth.
Sons of the Sun carries a noble message, advocating for protecting orphaned children and prosecuting those who exploit them. It is a valuable addition to Egyptian drama, shedding light on the struggles of orphaned children and their fight for dignity and justice.
The series concludes with a poignant documentary segment featuring real-life stories of individuals raised in orphanages, reinforcing their resilience in adversity.
Despite some script shortcomings, Sons of the Sun successfully intertwines gripping drama with a socially conscious narrative. The interplay between suspense and real-world issues keeps the audience engaged while raising awareness about the plight of orphaned children.
The series' strength also lies in its ability to evoke powerful emotions. The contrast between the orphans' innocence and the harsh realities they face heightens the drama, making it difficult for viewers to remain indifferent.
The series admirably depicts institutional struggles without reducing its characters to mere victims. Moftah and Welaa are not passive figures but active agents in their own fates, further deepening the impact of their journey.
From a technical standpoint, Sons of the Sun employs atmospheric cinematography to immerse viewers in its world. The orphanage's dim lighting and shadowy corners enhance the sense of confinement, while wide shots effectively convey the vast, indifferent world beyond its walls.
The soundtrack is another highlight, with Khaled El-Gabry's score heightening the series' tension and emotion. Bahaa Sultan's theme song, rich in melancholy, perfectly encapsulates the essence of the story.
Ultimately, Sons of the Sun is a bold and timely work that balances entertainment with social critique. Shedding light on the systemic exploitation of orphans, it calls for change while keeping audiences captivated with its gripping plot and strong performances. Though not without flaws, the series remains a significant contribution to contemporary Egyptian drama.
From : Al-Ahram