Thursday, 9 February 2023

Teen robot goes rogue in M3GAN + a French bistro that does the classic steak and frites justice

???? AT THE MOVIES-

Catch the terrifying tale of a murderous teen robot in M3GAN: Robotocist Gemma, who has designed a lifelike doll that can do pretty much anything a human being can, gives her eight-year-old niece a prototype of the doll to act as her play buddy, teacher, and co-guardian. What happens next is not for the faint of heart (watch trailer, runtime 2:27). A melange of comedy, horror and viral TikTok-esque dances, the film — while occasionally giving hints of social commentary on technology and modern parenting, according to the New York Times’ Jason Zinoman — never takes itself too seriously, making it a fun and campy watch.

WHERE TO CATCH IT- The movie is now showing in theaters across Cairo including Vox Cinemas, Galaxy Cinemas, and Plaza Cinemas.

WARNING- You may be tempted to go see the star-studded Babylon — you do so at your own peril: La La Land director Damien Chazelle’s three-hour ode to Hollywood, Babylon, has not had it easy — it flopped at the box office and was the subject of some pretty brutal reviews. One of our very own at the Enterprise HQ said it was so bad, she walked out of the film at the intermission. So if you still choose to go see the new ensemble film (we get it, it has half of Hollywood in it) then be forewarned: the film is said to have no play; to depend largely on the big Hollywood names carrying it; and to include some very graphic scenes (like an elephant defecating on the camera… in the first five minutes).

But if you’re a die-hard cinephile who wants to see Chazelle’s take on the transition period between silent films and talkies, then this could be for you (watch trailer, runtime: 02:25).

WHERE TO CATCH IT- You can find the film at Vox City Center Almaza, or at Zawya Cinemas today at 3:30pm.

???? FROM THE BOOKSTORE-

Travel to a fantasy Cairo where wishes can be sold in Shubeik Lubeik: This debut graphic novel trilogy from Egyptian artist Deena Mohamed depicts a magical world where genies exist, and can make your dreams come true — but only if you’re wealthy enough to afford them. The story centers around three characters who are sold wishes at a Cairo kiosk at a steep price. The critically acclaimed trilogy received rave reviews from the Washington Post, the New Yorker, NPR, and others. You can read an excerpt of the English version here.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR- The 28-year-old author of Shubeik Lubeik first went viral with her debut web comic — Qahera — in 2013. Qahera, like Shubeik Lubeik, is distinctly Egyptian and explores social issues through the eyes of its main character — an Egyptian Muslim female superhero. Since then, Mohamed’s work was recognized by tens of global publications and Shubeik Lubeik took home the awards for best graphic novel as well as the grand prize of the Cairo Comix Festival in 2017.

WHERE TO BUY IT- Pick it up from Diwan or order it from Amazon (US store)

???? HOT AND FRESH OUT OF THE KITCHEN-

enterprise

This French bistro in Arkan is as authentic as they come: Maison De Paris, located in Arkan Plaza’s new extension, is the closest we have gotten (so far) to proper French cuisine in Cairo. Besides being a perfect spot for a night out with friends (while also having the romantic air of a good date spot), this bistro’s signature “steak Cafe de Paris” dish perfects the classic steak frites platter, with a juicy and tender steak drenched in a light buttery sauce. If you’re not a fan of steak, opt for their delicious linguine with wild mushrooms or one of their pizzas (our personal favorite was the quatre fromages). End the meal with a classic French dessert — a creme brulee or a chocolate fondant.

???? Per person: A bit more than EGP 1k, including appetizer, main course and dessert

???? Alcohol? No

???? Outdoor seating? Yes

???? Accessibility friendly? Yes

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