Laughter in the Dark: Egypt to the Tune of Change

The youth of Egypt are influenced by social media, particularly TikTok, and their music, particularly hip-hop, is a means of expression for their dissatisfaction with the Egyptian state and society. Could this be the start of a force for change? "Laughter in the Dark" is a riveting portrait of a country that is being transformed.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 111 pages
Publication date: 24 August 2023
Publisher: Columbia Global Reports

A decade ago, millions of Egyptians took to the streets in a people-led revolution that captivated the world's attention and sent ripples across the Middle East. However, the so-called "Arab Spring" quickly faded, and a return to the status quo—of authoritarian rule—was cemented. What happened to the energy and desire for change?

In Egypt, the answer lies in its youth, who comprise the bulk of the country's fast-growing 106 million citizens. Sixty percent of the population is under the age of twenty-five, and their world views are very much influenced by social media: TikTok is their primary language and medium of choice. Music is their means of expression—in particular, a thriving hip-hop scene known as "mahraganat." This music has given voice to deep dissatisfaction with the Egyptian state and the overall conditions of Egyptian society and culture. Could this be the start of a force for change?

Laughter in the Dark is a riveting portrait of a country that is being transformed, for good or bad, by the rise of a fresh youth culture.

The film follows a group of young Egyptians who are passionate about hip-hop and its ability to bring about change in their country. They use their music to express their frustration with the government, the economy, and the social injustices that they face every day.

One of the film's main characters is a young rapper named Ahmed, who is determined to make a difference in his community. He uses his music to raise awareness about the problems that his people face and to inspire others to take action.

Ahmed's music is not without its challenges, however. The government has cracked down on the hip-hop scene, arresting and detaining many artists for their political lyrics. Despite this, Ahmed and his fellow musicians continue to perform and spread their message of hope and change.

Laughter in the Dark is a powerful film that offers a glimpse into the lives of young Egyptians and their struggle for a better future. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit and the power of music to bring about change.

The film also raises important questions about the role of youth in shaping the future of their countries. In Egypt, the youth are the majority, and their voices and perspectives must be heard if the country is to move forward. The government must work to create an environment that is conducive to creativity and innovation, and to provide young people with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.

In conclusion, Laughter in the Dark is a must-see film for anyone who is interested in understanding the current state of Egypt and the potential for change. It is a powerful portrait of a country that is being transformed by the rise of a fresh youth culture, and it offers a glimpse into the lives of young Egyptians and their struggle for a better future. The film raises important questions about the role of youth in shaping the future of their countries, and it is a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit.

Weight: 130g
Dimension: 126 x 191 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9798987053508