Latest news with #OmarSharif
Times
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Times
A sprinkling of sublime for TE Lawrence's grave
There is that 'great man' moment in David Lean's cinematic masterpiece Lawrence of Arabia when Peter O'Toole's Lawrence is trying to persuade his sceptical Bedouin lieutenant (Omar Sharif) that it is indeed possible to cross hundreds of miles of waterless desert and take the fortified port of Aqaba, held by the Turks, from the landward side. 'Aqaba is over there,' he says, pointing into the furnace. 'It's only a matter of going.' That journey in 1917, the crossing of the uncrossable, of what Sharif's character calls the 'Devil's Anvil', was the defining moment for Thomas Edward Lawrence. His legend grew from life ended not with a Turkish bullet or a last drop of stagnant water but at the age of 46 with a
Daily Mail
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
‘I was handed a $4,000 bill': ELAINE GOLDSMITH-THOMAS on being a Hollywood agent in the 1980s
A s a junior Hollywood agent for the William Morris Agency, in 1987 Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas was told to look after one of its clients, the suave Egyptian actor Omar Sharif, for an evening. 'He suggested dinner and chose Perino's, the most expensive restaurant in Los Angeles,' she recalls. 'Then he started calling friends who joined us. There were pre-dinner drinks, dinner, more drinks, champagne, caviar. By the end there were about 11 people at our table and we closed the restaurant. When the bill finally came it was $4,000, which was a fortune back then. And he just handed it to me and said, 'Thank you.'' This is only one of the stories Goldsmith-Thomas amassed as she worked her way to becoming a high-profile agent in La La Land in the 1980s and 90s, when excess was the norm. She represented Madonna, Julia Roberts, Spike Lee and Nicolas Cage, before become the producing partner of close friend and former client Jennifer Lopez. Now she has written a novel, Climbing In Heels, about a trio of pioneering shoulder-padded female agents vying to sign movie stars in a milieu rife with sex, drugs and harassment. The book was snapped up before publication and sold as a blockbuster series to the US streaming service Peacock by another old friend of Goldsmith-Thomas's, Darren Star, creator of Sex And The City and Emily In Paris. The scandalous happenings it features – from swimming-pool shags to office blowjobs, ruthless client-poaching to cocaine binges – are, it seems, mostly real. As is its depiction of the predatory sexism that pervaded the 'boys' club' of talent agencies back then. 'I didn't want to write a feminist manifesto, that wouldn't be true,' says Goldsmith-Thomas of the book's non-judgmental tone. 'Some of these things happened to me, some I invented, but if anything it's understated – I actually took stuff out because I thought, 'Holy f**k, what am I doing?' If you look at Weinstein and people like him now paying the price, they were trained in the 80s. 'Weinstein was not the exception – he was the rule. It was a wild, wild west, and I didn't know it was bad because that was the world I was in. There were women who were older than me who mentored me but if you complained to them [about sexism or harassment], they'd say, 'Grow a pair.' One used to joke that she'd f**ked her way to the middle.' (Goldsmith-Thomas won't tell me her age but she is now mid 60s.) Early in her career she was dissuaded by a senior woman from delivering a contract to the hotel suite of comedian (and sexual predator) Bill Cosby. She later got into trouble when another client, French-Canadian actor Robert Goulet, began ad-libbing about his ex-wife instead of delivering his opening lines in a play, before telling the 5,000-strong theatre audience in Ohio to 'go f**k yourselves' and walking offstage. The famous people she's prepared to dish dirt on tend to be dead, like Goulet and Sharif, or convicted criminals, like Weinstein and Cosby. About others she's more tight-lipped. The famously eccentric Nic Cage was 'incredibly sweet, brilliantly talented and recognised great material', while the notoriously demanding Madonna was also 'brilliant'. 'People who have achieved greatness,' she adds, 'it tends not to be by accident.' The one person she's open about is Lopez, who she represented as an agent from 1998 before joining her company Nuyorican Productions in 2012, going on to produce movies such as Hustlers. 'When I had breast cancer in 2004, Jennifer flew in for every chemo session and rubbed my bald head,' she says. Goldsmith-Thomas and her husband of almost 30 years, lawyer Daniel Thomas, spent the days before last Christmas with Lopez and her children (the couple don't have kids, partly due to Goldsmith-Thomas's cancer treatment, she says), four months after Lopez's divorce from Ben Affleck. 'She is happy. She is focused and we are shooting a comedy. She's a great mother to her kids and stepmother to Ben's with Jen [Jennifer Garner].' In a recent Instagram post to promote a book-signing, Goldsmith-Thomas tells Lopez she can ask her anything about her career. 'And she goes, 'How much blow [cocaine] did you do?'' the author says, laughing. In her novel, three women – sometimes friends, sometimes frenemies – hustle their way to the top of the agenting tree in diverse ways. Waspy Ella Gaddy rises despite refusing to conform to the norms of her upper-class upbringing, the era's sexual orthodoxy or the agency game. Illegitimate, impoverished Brit Millicent Baxter reinvents herself as exotic Mercedes and seduces her way up the ladder. Jewish Valley girl Beanie Rosen is the most driven and the one whose relationships, while sometimes unwise (and in one case defined by a singular sexual practice), are heartfelt rather than cynical. 'There is a lot of Beanie in me,' admits Goldsmith-Thomas, herself born into a Jewish family in the San Fernando Valley. Beanie's route into showbiz mirrors her own. 'Before I went to college I had a very short actor boyfriend who wanted an agent,' she says. 'I worked in a card shop in the Valley and had the girls who worked there compile a list of agents – 5,000 of them – then spent summer trying to get him signed. I wanted to deliver that 'yes'. You had to befriend the receptionist to get to the secretary to get to the agent. And when they turned me down, I'd invent reasons to keep him on the hook – I was afraid he'd leave me. 'I paid for his headshots, doled out sexual favours to him, eventually got him signed – and he dumped me. It broke my heart, but I never forgot how good it felt when I got that 'yes'. So I applied to the William Morris Agency as a secretary, and when I eventually became an agent the first call I got was from him.' She didn't sign him. Now, 'I see his little bald head on real-estate signs.' In the 1980s, talent agencies were a man's world and a straight white man's world at that. Gay men's careers were curtailed, non-white employees were hired as window-dressing to make non-white clients feel comfortable, and all young women were seen as fair game. 'I don't think we knew it was sexist,' she says. 'We were, 'Wow, they're letting us into the club!' Whatever the rules, we had to play.' Since she was 'curvy' and 'probably reminded them of their moms or sisters', Goldsmith-Thomas relied on drive rather than sex appeal. 'Helping somebody attain their dreams fulfilled me in a way I can't explain. Was there a lot of sex there? I was in monogamous relationships – though, you know, not completely.' She snickers. 'And yes, there were drugs; a parking attendant at William Morris was the biggest dealer.' The book shows the three women growing almost as monstrous as the men; and after a decade at both William Morris then ICM, Goldsmith-Thomas quit agenting to become a producer. 'Was I monstrous? Sure. I was bull-headed. I was strong. I had to be. But I only stopped being an agent because I really wanted to write.' She'd done uncredited script polishes for years, but it was Lopez, 'a dancer who became an actor who became a singer who became a brand, who doesn't see the sky as the limit but as a resting place', who persuaded her to go for it. 'I wanted to write a soapy Valley Of The Dolls, Peyton Place kind of book that would be fun reading yet was true,' she says. The first person she showed the unfinished manuscript to was Darren Star, who she'd known since he was a junior publicist and she was an agent's assistant in the 80s. Four days later he said, 'I'm optioning this.' And four days after that it was sold in a six-figure deal to Universal (with whom Star has a multi-year producing and development deal), then seized on by Peacock. 'We're gonna start writing it in May,' says Goldsmith-Thomas. 'We've had calls from some very big stars.' There has also been a positive response from a demographic that surprised her. 'I'm hearing so much from young women, 21-year-olds who are fascinated by the times and what we did and how we did it, and I guess the sex,' she says, slightly aghast. 'They're going, 'God, it seems so great.' I guess they look at it that way because everything now is so hard and so corporate. Isn't that funny?'
CairoScene
01-03-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Five Oscars Moments When the Spotlight Was on Egyptians
With the 97th Academy Awards on its way, let's look back at some Oscars moments that you may not know were powered by Egyptians… Mar 01, 2025 With the 97th Academy Awards around the corner, everyone is waiting to find out which films, actors and directors will win the prestigious Oscar and which will fall short. Of course, it's not just about the films - the Oscars are also a stage for technological innovation and high fashion, a veritable cultural battlefield in which matters of representation are contested in Western media. Hollywood's dominance of global cinema has often made recognition of non-Western films, actors and directors a politically charged moment. The Best International Feature Film category, though significant, offers only a limited space for global cinema to gain prominence. Despite being esteemed as the Arab world's leading film producer, Egyptian cinema never seems to receive the recognition it deserves at the Academy Awards. Whilst the recognition of Egyptian cinematographers, actors, directors and designers has been historically sporadic at the Oscars, let's give the spotlight to the many Egyptians who have left their mark on the Academy Awards in front of and behind the camera… 1959: Youssef Chahine's 'Cairo Station' is the first Egyptian film submitted as a nominee for an Oscar The history of Egyptian participation in the Oscars began in 1958 with Youssef Chahine's 'Cairo Station'. After competing in the 8th Berlin International Film Festival, this crime drama was selected as Egypt's entry for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the 31st Academy Awards in 1959. Although it was not accepted as a nominee, 'Cairo Station' holds the distinction of being the first Egyptian and Arab film submitted to the previously Western-dominated awards. Chahine's film delves into issues at the core of Egyptian society at the time, depicting a controversial yet accurate portrayal of the urban working class at the time, and offering a glimpse into Egypt's shifting ideological landscape. Chahine both directed the film and played its mad protagonist, the newsstand owner Qinawai. 1963: Omar Sharif is the first Egyptian to be nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role in 'Lawrence of Arabia' In 1963, at the 35th Academy Awards, Omar Sharif became the first Egyptian to be nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Sherif Ali in David Lean's 'Lawrence of Arabia'. Despite falling just short of winning the award, his flirtation with an Oscar coined him the status of the first Arab to 'conquer' Hollywood, as his talents caught the attention of a predominantly Western panel of judges. Perhaps the complexity of Omar Sharif's character in the film is what made his performance so poignant. Sherif Ali is a warrior, deeply committed to his tribe, as well as an intellectual and strategic thinker. He ultimately emerged as a character that challenged the simplifications and generalisations of Arab roles in cinema at the time. The film as a whole, and Omar Sharif's esteemed performance in it, invites reflection on the history of the (mis)representation of Arabs in cinema. 1969: Fouad Saïd is awarded the Scientific Award for his invention of the Cinemobile The 42nd Academy Awards in 1969 saw another moment when an Egyptian was recognised for outstanding cinematic contribution, this time, from behind the screen. Fouad Saïd, an Egyptian-American producer, cinematographer and filmmaker, received the Scientific Award for developing the 'Cinemobile' which revolutionised filmmaking at the time. The cinemobile is a van-like vehicle that facilitated the transport of filming equipment on location shoots, making location-shooting faster, more efficient and cheaper. As well as receiving an Academy Award for his contribution to the cinema industry, he also received an Egyptian Order of Merit Award. Saïd's cinemobile left a lasting legacy in the industry at a time when it was struggling with ballooning costs, and continues to influence how films and TV shows are produced on location. 2016: Farida Temraz's designs dazzle at Oscars events 2016 saw another Egyptian-powered Oscars moment from behind the camera when Egyptian designer, Farida Temraz, showcased her designs at Oscars events. Her brand, Temraza, produces designs incorporating Egyptian heritage with contemporary aesthetics. Temraza dresses were worn in 2016 by Iranian actress Temi Panosian at the 24th Annual Elton John AIDs Foundation viewing party, Australian ballroom dancer Sharna Burgess at the Vanity Fair Oscars party, and Morgan Stewart as she hosted the E! Oscars after party special. Since then, her designs have continued to turn heads at the Oscars, having dressed multiple celebrities and public figures. As well as gracing the Oscars and global fashion events with her designs throughout her career, Farida Temraz has also played an important role in returning Egypt to the global fashion map, having released her book 'Fashion Branding and Social Media: A Practical Guide', the first fashion book of its kind in the Middle East. 2019: Rami Malek Wins Best Actor for his Performance in 'Bohemian Rhapsody' The 91st Academy Awards in 2019 saw the first actor of Egyptian and Arab heritage take the Best Actor award, as Rami Malek was recognised for his portrayal of Freddie Mercury in 'Bohemian Rhapsody'. Malek was born in Los Angeles in 1981 to Egyptian parents who moved to the US from Cairo in 1978. His background as a first generation immigrant, and experience reconciling both parts of a hyphenated identity, allowed him to connect to the role of Freddie Mercury, whose family immigrated to the UK from Zanzibar. Since receiving his Oscar, he has spoken proudly of his heritage in many interviews, most notably stressing that 'being Egyptian is in the fibre of my DNA' on the Jimmy Fallon show.
Sharjah 24
20-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Xposure: A creative photography experience for all ages at Aljada
Whether you're a family looking for a fun day out, a casual explorer, or someone seeking creative inspiration, Xposure 2025 has something for everyone. For families, it is a treasure trove of activities Kids and curious minds will be captivated by the Ibn Haytham Experience , an interactive journey that brings the history and science of the 'Father of Optics' to life. Explore a giant Camera Obscura, marvel at optical illusions, and even meet a life-sized Ibn Haytham mascot. His work was pivotal in understanding how light travels and forms images, the beginning of the study of image projection and a precursor to photography. With hands-on experiments and a short film starring Omar Sharif, this immersive exhibit celebrates the legacy of one of history's greatest scientific pioneers and delights visitors of all ages. The fun doesn't stop there! Aljada transforms into a buzzing space with something for everyone. Photography enthusiasts can explore a dedicated section for camera sales and accessories, including vintage cameras, film, and even an instant camera vending machine. Dive into creative moments with fun photo booths, a green-screen studio, and Fujifilm's X-tra zone, where you can join workshops, masterclasses, and photo walks. Don't miss special sessions like 'Baking with Ola' on February 21 or 'The Power of Storytelling' on February 22. Also, early birds can snag a free limited-edition Fujifilm mug and coffee. It is the perfect way to kickstart your day of exploration. Want to take home a keepsake? Xposure 2025 has you covered with free family portrait sessions . Step into one of the designated locations, where professional photographers will be ready to capture stunning, high-quality portraits. Or just unwind with a cuppa at the Aljada Xposure venue. Treat yourself to specialty coffee at Cartel Coffee Roasters, enjoy a cozy tea break at Jamrat Shay, or grab a bite and cuppa at All Cafe. For a more laid-back vibe, enjoy a picnic in the park while soaking in the festival's creative energy. In the mood for some sightseeing? Hop onto the Xposure Tour Bus and see Sharjah in a new light! Visitors can register for this unique experience, which is a guided photography experience across Sharjah's most scenic locations, with a professional photographer on board providing expert tips for capturing the perfect shot. And if you're there for photography, Xposure is the ultimate destination. Exhibition tours will bring the art to life, with world-famous photographers personally guiding visitors through their work. Meanwhile, Stage X will host inspiring talks by global photography icons, offering behind-the-scenes stories of culture, history, and visual storytelling. So, mark your calendars until February 26 and head to Aljada for a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you inspired and entertained. For more information, visit
Express Tribune
15-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Rajpal Yadav Reveals His Favourite Pakistani Comedians & Shares Thoughts on Anti-Pakistan Films
Rajpal Yadav, one of Bollywood's most beloved comedians, is known for his ability to bring laughter to the screen with his impeccable timing and memorable performances in hits like Bhool Bhulaiyaa , Hungama , Hera Pheri , and Dhol . His comedy has transcended borders, making him a household name in countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh, where audiences are deeply familiar with Hindi and Urdu films. Recently, the actor was in Dubai recording a podcast with renowned Pakistani digital creator Nadir Ali who is known for his "P4 Pakao", series where he shared some insightful thoughts about the entertainment industry and his favorite comedians from across the border. One of the most intriguing moments in the podcast was when Yadav discussed the topic of anti-Pakistan films, a subject that often stirs emotions on both sides. He addressed this sensitive issue with thoughtfulness, explaining that films are created for entertainment, and though a few movies may focus on historical or controversial topics, the majority are made to provide joy to audiences. He said, 'This is a very sensitive question. We make around 500 movies in a year—some for entertainment, some action—but in the end, all those working in it are human, they show emotions as an act. Also, it depends on the director. Among those 500 movies, only two are based on history or controversy, while the majority are made for entertainment. I once did a movie, The Hero, in which I played a similar kind of character. However, after maturing and achieving success, I chose not to be part of any film that could hurt the sentiments of either Pakistan or India.' Rajpal Yadav's thoughtful approach reflects his awareness of the impact media can have on cultural relations, and he expressed his desire to avoid contributing to anything that might cause division. He's evolved in his career, making more conscious choices, ensuring that his roles foster unity rather than perpetuating negative stereotypes. When asked about his favorite Pakistani comedians, Rajpal couldn't hold back his admiration for two of the most legendary figures in the industry: Moin Akhtar and Omar Sharif. He acknowledged their unmatched talent, saying, 'Omar Sharif and Moin Akhtar were the kings of their craft; they were truly blessed. You had to be glued to the screen because of their talent—you couldn't miss a second. If you looked away, you would miss a lot, especially in Loose Talk , where every dialogue and gesture was priceless. We used to listen to Omar Sharif's audio cassettes. They were stars, naturally gifted with creativity.' His respect for both legends is evident, as he fondly recalled their incredible work and the lasting impact they had on comedy and the entertainment industry. It's clear that Rajpal Yadav holds a deep respect for Pakistani talent, and his acknowledgment of these comedic icons proves his love for quality performances that transcend borders. For those who have followed his career, his thoughts on Moin Akhtar and Omar Sharif are an important reminder of the powerful, cross-cultural influence these two had on not only Pakistani but global comedy. Rajpal's candid comments and his love for the craft of comedy, both in India and Pakistan, have evoked a sense of nostalgia and admiration for these iconic figures, showing that comedy truly knows no boundaries.
