Romanticizing Cigarette Smoking, Alcohol, Nudity, and Drug Consumption in Arabic Cinema
by Hatem Al-Shamea
Introduction
The romanticization of cigarette smoking, alcohol, and drug consumption in cinema has profound implications for societal norms and values. This phenomenon is particularly notable in Egyptian films, which often depict these behaviors as symbols of sophistication, rebellion, or coping mechanisms. This paper explores the portrayals of these vices in Egyptian movies such as “El-Film El-Azraq” (The Blue Elephant), “Hepta,” “Welad Rizk” (Sons of Rizk), and “Sukkar Mor” (Bitter Sugar), comparing them with Western cinematic traditions. By employing critical literary theory, this paper will analyze the cultural and ethical ramifications of these portrayals and their potential impact on audiences, particularly the youth.
Cigarette Smoking in Egyptian Cinema
Cigarette smoking in Egyptian cinema is frequently associated with strength, masculinity, and sophistication. Films like “Welad Rizk” (Sons of Rizk) showcase characters who smoke as embodying toughness and charisma. The protagonist, often seen with a cigarette, is depicted as a powerful and influential figure, reinforcing the notion that smoking is a marker of these traits.
From a critical literary theory perspective, the depiction of smoking can be analyzed through the lens of semiotics and cultural studies. Semiotics, the study of signs and symbols, reveals how smoking is used as a visual shorthand for certain personality traits. Cultural studies further explore how these symbols are constructed and understood within a specific cultural context. In Egyptian cinema, smoking is not merely a habit; it is a signifier of rebellion, power, and non-conformity.
The portrayal of smoking in Egyptian films bears similarities to its depiction in Western cinema. Iconic films such as “Casablanca” and “Rebel Without a Cause” have long associated smoking with allure and rebellion. The character of Rick Blaine, played by Humphrey Bogart in “Casablanca,” is rarely seen without a cigarette, enhancing his image as a world-weary, sophisticated figure. Similarly, James Dean’s character in “Rebel Without a Cause” uses smoking to underscore his rebellious nature.
However, there is a noticeable difference in the cultural context and societal reception. While Western films have increasingly moved towards depicting the negative consequences of smoking, Egyptian cinema still often portrays it in a more glamorized light. This disparity can be attributed to differing regulatory environments and societal attitudes towards smoking.
Alcohol Consumption in Egyptian Cinema
Alcohol consumption in Egyptian films like “Sukkar Mor” (Bitter Sugar) is depicted as a means of celebration, relaxation, or coping with life’s challenges. Characters are often shown drinking in social settings, where alcohol serves as a facilitator of joy and bonding. The negative aspects of alcohol use, such as addiction and health risks, are frequently downplayed or ignored.
Using psychoanalytic theory, one can examine how alcohol is portrayed as a tool for escaping reality and confronting inner turmoil. Characters’ reliance on alcohol often symbolizes deeper psychological struggles and societal pressures. Additionally, Marxist theory can be applied to analyze how these portrayals reflect class dynamics and social inequalities. Alcohol is often depicted as an accessible escape for the downtrodden or a luxurious indulgence for the elite, thus reinforcing certain class-based narratives.
Comparison with Western Cinema
In Western cinema, the portrayal of alcohol has evolved significantly. While early Hollywood films like “The Thin Man” series glorified drinking as part of a glamorous lifestyle, contemporary films often highlight the darker side of alcohol consumption. Movies like “Leaving Las Vegas” and “Flight” delve into the destructive impact of alcoholism, portraying its consequences with unflinching realism.
In contrast, Egyptian films tend to focus more on the social and celebratory aspects of drinking. This difference can be attributed to cultural norms and the regulatory landscape governing film content. Western films are subject to stricter regulations regarding the depiction of substance abuse, which may not be as stringent in Egypt.
Drug Consumption in Egyptian Cinema
Drug use in Egyptian films such as “El-Film El-Azraq” (The Blue Elephant) is depicted with a mix of fascination and horror. The protagonist’s struggle with drug addiction is shown as a path to psychological and existential exploration. While the film highlights the turmoil caused by addiction, it also paints drug use as a gateway to deeper understanding and escape from reality.
Postmodern literary theory provides a useful framework for analyzing these portrayals. Postmodernism often involves a skepticism of grand narratives and embraces fragmented, subjective experiences. The depiction of drug use in “El-Film El-Azraq” aligns with postmodern themes of alienation and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. The protagonist’s drug-induced experiences can be seen as a metaphor for the fractured nature of contemporary existence.
Additionally, existentialist theory can be applied to understand how drug use is portrayed as a means of confronting the absurdity of life. Characters use drugs to explore the limits of their consciousness and grapple with existential dilemmas, reflecting a broader cultural disillusionment.
Western films have long grappled with the portrayal of drug use, often oscillating between glamorization and stark realism. Films like “Trainspotting” and “Requiem for a Dream” offer unflinching depictions of drug addiction, emphasizing its destructive consequences. These films aim to shock and educate audiences about the harsh realities of drug abuse.
In contrast, Egyptian films like “El-Film El-Azraq” often present a more nuanced view, blending the allure and danger of drug use. This can be partially attributed to cultural differences in how drug addiction is perceived and discussed. While Western films may adopt a more didactic approach, Egyptian cinema sometimes leans towards a more ambiguous, contemplative portrayal.
Cultural and Ethical Ramifications
The romanticization of cigarette smoking, alcohol, and drug consumption in Egyptian cinema has significant cultural and ethical ramifications. These portrayals can influence societal attitudes and behaviors, particularly among younger audiences who are still forming their moral and ethical frameworks.
Modernizing Nudity
The portrayal of nudity in Egyptian cinema has evolved, with modern films pushing boundaries under the pretext of artistic expression or realism. While this can be seen as a move towards greater freedom of expression, it also raises concerns about the desensitization to nudity and the erosion of traditional values of modesty and privacy.
Movies such as “Al-Asleyeen” (The Originals) and “18 Days” include scenes that challenge conservative views on nudity. While these films may aim to depict a more authentic human experience, they risk normalizing public nudity and sexual content, which can influence societal attitudes, particularly among younger viewers.
Normalizing Lies and Insulting Language
Deceit and derogatory language have become prevalent in Egyptian films, reflecting and reinforcing a broader cultural shift towards cynicism and disrespect. Characters in movies like “Cabaret” and “The Yacoubian Building” frequently lie and use offensive language to achieve their goals, often without facing significant consequences.
When lies and insulting language are depicted as effective or necessary for success, they undermine the importance of honesty and integrity. This normalization can foster a culture where deceit and disrespect are seen as acceptable behaviors, eroding the standards of truthful and respectful communication.
Insulting and Shameful Behavior
Egyptian comedies, in particular, often feature insulting and shameful behavior as a source of humor. Films like “Taymour w Shafika” and “El-Lemby” present characters engaging in crude, irresponsible, and demeaning actions, which are depicted as entertaining or harmless.
This portrayal can desensitize audiences to the seriousness of disrespectful or irresponsible behavior. When shameful actions are laughed off or treated lightly, it diminishes their perceived severity, potentially encouraging similar conduct in real life.
By presenting smoking, drinking, and drug use as glamorous or sophisticated, Egyptian films risk normalizing these harmful behaviors. Young viewers, in particular, may be swayed by the allure of these portrayals, perceiving these vices as acceptable or even desirable. The lack of focus on the negative consequences further exacerbates this issue, as audiences are not exposed to the full reality of these behaviors.
Erosion of Cultural Values
The depiction of these vices in a positive light can also erode traditional cultural values. In many societies, including Egypt, smoking, drinking, and drug use are often viewed through a lens of moral and ethical disapproval. Films that glamorize these behaviors challenge these cultural norms, potentially leading to a shift in societal attitudes. Over time, this can result in a weakening of cultural values that emphasize health, responsibility, and respect for social norms.
Ethical Responsibility of Filmmakers
Filmmakers have an ethical responsibility to consider the impact of their work on society. While artistic freedom is important, it must be balanced with an awareness of the potential consequences of glamorizing harmful behaviors. The portrayal of smoking, drinking, and drug use in a positive light can have real-world implications, contributing to public health issues and altering societal norms.
Impact on the Younger Generation
The influence of cinema on the younger generation cannot be overstated. Adolescents and young adults are particularly susceptible to media influences, as they are still in the process of forming their identities and moral frameworks. The romanticization of cigarette smoking, alcohol, and drug consumption in films can shape their attitudes and behaviors in significant ways.
Imitation and Emulation
Young viewers often look up to film characters as role models, imitating their behaviors and attitudes. When smoking, drinking, and drug use are depicted as desirable traits, there is a risk that young audiences will emulate these behaviors. Studies have shown that exposure to smoking and drinking in films can increase the likelihood of these behaviors among adolescents, highlighting the powerful influence of media on youth behavior.
Shaping Perceptions and Attitudes
The way these vices are portrayed in films can also shape young viewers’ perceptions and attitudes towards them. If smoking, drinking, and drug use are consistently depicted in a positive light, young audiences may develop more favorable attitudes towards these behaviors. This can lead to a greater likelihood of experimentation and, potentially, long-term substance abuse issues.
Long-term Consequences
The long-term consequences of normalizing these behaviors in cinema can be profound. Increased smoking, drinking, and drug use among the younger generation can lead to public health crises, with significant social and economic costs. Additionally, the erosion of cultural values and norms can have lasting effects on societal cohesion and moral standards.
Conclusion
The romanticization of cigarette smoking, alcohol, and drug consumption in Egyptian cinema poses significant risks to societal values and the moral development of younger generations. By presenting these behaviors as glamorous or sophisticated, films can influence societal attitudes and behaviors in harmful ways. While artistic freedom is important, filmmakers must consider the ethical implications of their work and strive to present more balanced and realistic portrayals of these vices. By critically examining and addressing these issues, we can work towards a more ethical and responsible media landscape that promotes healthy, positive values for all viewers.
In Proof that I Am Not Dead – Yaseen Al-Bukali – trans. Hatem Al-Shamea
