Where Are You Going Habibi? (2009), directed by Sami Abu Shumays, is a drama film that revolves around the exploration of love, identity, and cultural differences. The film tells the story of two men, Yousef (played by Khaled Nabawy) and Sami (played by Ahmad El-Fishawy), who live in a world shaped by complex personal and social challenges. The plot unfolds as they struggle with their feelings for each other in a society where homosexuality is not accepted.
Yousef, an established individual in his community, finds himself drawn to Sami, a younger man who has recently become a part of his life. Despite their connection, they both face internal and external conflicts about their desires, complicated by societal expectations and their cultural surroundings. The film explores their relationship as they navigate the tensions between their emotions and the pressures they face from their families and community.
Where Are You Going Habibi? addresses themes of love, secrecy, and the struggle for self-acceptance in the face of societal rejection. The film focuses on the complexity of romantic relationships that defy cultural norms, highlighting the courage required to love freely when it is not accepted by society. It is a contemplative story about the emotional turmoil of coming to terms with one’s identity in a world that may not be understanding.
Ultimately, the film is a deep exploration of the human condition, tackling themes of love, loss, and the consequences of hiding one’s true self in a world that values conformity. It portrays the emotional journey of two individuals trying to understand themselves and their feelings while confronting the fear of judgment and rejection from the people around them.