The Yacoubian Building is an Egyptian film which has broken all records across the Arab world, and caused a hail of controversy with its depictions of homosexuality and corruption.

The Yacoubian Building is an Egyptian film which has broken all records across the Arab world, and caused a hail of controversy with its depictions of homosexuality and corruption. Set in 1990 at the time of the first Gulf War, the film is a scathing portrayal of modern Egyptian society since the coup d'état of 1952. Set in downtown Cairo, the titular apartment building (which actually exists) serves as both a metaphor for contemporary Egypt and in which the primary characters live, work and interact.

Critic Deborah Young wrote that The Yacoubian Building was “as satisfying and enjoyable as a good, long read”, and credited its frank treatment of homosexuality as “revolutionary in the context of Egyptian cinema”.

The BBC meanwhile, referred to the film as “a handsomely staged, ambitious and certainly expensive account of modern life in Cairo”.

The Yacoubian Building will also be shown on Thu 10 Jan at 7.30pm.