Skip to main content

Netflix's first Arabic-language film sparks uproar in Egypt

The launch of Netflix's first original Arabic-language film "Perfect Strangers" led to an immediate backlash in Egypt among conservatives.
A promotional image for "Perfect Strangers."

Netflix's first Arabic-language original film "Perfect Strangers" ("As-hab wala A'az" in Arabic, literally "Friends or Dearer") has sparked an uproar in Egypt, with the reactions raising concern among secularists about growing fundamentalism in society.

Within days of its launch Jan. 20, the film, the latest in a string of international adaptations of the 2016 Italian comedy drama under the same name, came under fire from conservatives on social media with some accusing Netflix of "seeking to spread deviant ideas" and of trying to normalize them. Meanwhile, supporters defended the right of viewers to choose what they watch; others argued that those who deny that vices exist in our society are like ostriches burying their heads in the sand.

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.