Umm Kulthum: A Voice Like Egypt.

If Edith Piaf represented the romantic spirit and soul of France, Umm Kulthum had--as the title suggests--a voice like Egypt. When she died in 1975, over four million Egyptians mourned her in the streets. Narrated by Omar Sharif, this splendid documentary introduces this immortal singer to the west, showing why Kulthum was so loved and why her voice still resonates in modern Egypt. Beginning with her poverty stricken childhood in rural Egypt, and the early days when her strict Islamic father took her to sing at "mulids" (celebrations of the holy men of Islam) dressed as a young boy, the video charts Kulthum's rise, which coincided with the emerging technologies of the phonograph, radio, and films. Her performances were full of "tarib" or ecstasy, and she needed the excitement of an audience; streets and cafes emptied out on the nights of her radio programs, as Egyptians stayed home to listen to the great singer. She was an admirer of President Nasser and contributed money to re-arm Egypt after the disastrous 1967 war with Israel, yet, in spite of a very public life, her personal life always remained a mystery. Enriched by vivid clips of live performances, and numerous interesting interviews with scholars and admirers, this excellent video is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees)