Culture and Art

Is it a serious proposal or just about scoring points?

Some literary critics remain silent for long periods, without heralding, predicting, or anticipating the latest schools, doctrines, and styles

Published

One year ago

November 8, 2024

Saudi Arabia News - saudinews50

Some literary critics remain silent for long periods, without heralding, anticipating, or predicting the latest schools, doctrines, and artistic styles. Perhaps some of them will become active if a group adopts a newer (creative product), to show their rapid identification and great interaction, knowing that they have no credit for the product’s emergence, even if they claim credit for marketing it. Perhaps they are like someone who rides waves to score points for themselves and counts as one of the most recent efforts of creators who struggled to prove the existence of their creativity.

Here we present the issue to a number of critics, to extract viewpoints on the role of criticism before, during and after the emergence of the creative state.

Critic Dr. Doush bint Fallah Al-Dossari believes that a true critic is one who seizes moments of creative inspiration, reading, delving into, and analyzing the phenomenon, relying on their knowledge, experience, and awareness of innovation. She considers this awareness a crucial tool in shaping their critical stance. She added, "Some may hesitate to offer their opinion until the phenomenon has fully developed and matured. I believe this hesitation contradicts the vital, passionate, and curious nature of a true critic." She further noted that simply riding the wave for the sake of appearances is a naive and superficial approach, and those who adopt it will remain stuck on the wave, unable to move beyond it.

Critic Dr. Saleh bin Ahmed Al-Suhaimi affirmed that many people strive to keep pace with the times, including writers and critics. He pointed out that the accelerating pace of time and the need to keep up with new creative works have extended to the critical arena, which is now actively following new literary genres. He considered this a commendable development. Al-Suhaimi then posed the question: What is the criterion for critical engagement with new creative works? He answered that the true criterion lies in a sound understanding and mastery of the new creative genre. He added: If we delve deeper, we will see that the nature of critics throughout history tends towards familiar creative genres. If we connect this issue to the question of the old versus the new, a well-established critical issue in our ancient Arab heritage that continues to be raised from time to time, we will arrive at a firm opinion that favors beauty in criticism and taste in the creative text, whether it be an old or new literary genre. He sees the true criterion for critics' engagement with new literary genres as being their testing within the movement of experimentation and creative modernization, and the extent to which reception plays a role in accepting or rejecting this new or familiar creative work. He argued that elevating an incomplete literary genre or an immature literary text, and then glorifying it critically, and raising it from the margin to the main text, in order to keep up with the times, is not befitting the solidity of authentic criticism, nor the stability of the critical scene. What the critic should be doing is preserving the integrity of literary taste in creativity, and following the wonder and taste in new creative texts.

Poet Mohammed Mohsen Al-Ghamdi believes that literary criticism continues to express its creative potential through the diverse perspectives and opinions of various critics. However, the true driving force in this process—which is no less creative than the artwork itself—lies in the critic's own motivations and effective tools. These tools can illuminate the literary work, shedding light even on the creator, whose role ends once the work is published. He added: It is not always the case that a literary work, whether a poem, short story, novel, or other genre, finds a forward-thinking and innovative critic who is undeterred in raising the standards of criticism. He said: It is hoped that his criticism will be forward-looking, creative, and encompassing of the life and psychological circumstances of the creator as much as possible, pointing to the role of the critic Dr. Saeed Al-Suraihi with the poetry of Muhammad Al-Thubaiti and the explanation of its charms, and in that is the best evidence of the intersection with the creative situation, as he clarified and showed the aesthetics of those wonderful texts. He believes that some critics are biased or shackled by outdated tools that have become obsolete, trying and striving to remain standing in arenas where the winds of change have blown from all sides, so they can only write what is not read and say what is not heard, so that they may realize their backwardness and return to transparent, clean, forward-looking, and pioneering criticism.

Amal Al-Qathami: I disagree with you... a critic is neither an opportunist nor an exploiter

To begin with, I disagree with your choice of the words “rides” and “invests” which suggest (exploitation) and climbing, as these qualities are far removed from the true critic who works on his critical project.

Regarding the critic’s work on emerging topics, this adds to him and his cognitive dimension, especially if he is able to unpack and systematize the topic and present it in a deeper way, addressing it and adding to it.

She explained that a critic writing in a new and common subject space for the sake of writing and appearing inevitably affects the seriousness of the presentation and diminishes its value, since the more the critic has his critical cognitive field, project and methodology, the more beneficial and useful that is to the movement of criticism.

She said: “It seems to me, from my perspective, that the academic critic differs from the amateur critic. The academic is concerned with writing within the context of his precise specialization and with what is new, and this is a requirement; because if he stops at dealing with specific phenomena, he will freeze and become intellectually and mentally rigid, since new creative topics push him towards renewal and different thinking, and what he works on seems to me to be an addition and does not detract from his specialized work.”.

She believes that the amateur critic will become a phenomenon, as we have now seen courses offered by the Ministry of Culture for weeks in which amateurs are taught how to become a critic. In my opinion, this group will be preoccupied with writing about everything, and I do not see anything in that that diminishes their orientation, because it will move the scene which really needs to follow up on new phenomena and write about them.

Culture and Art

Nelly Karim and Azza Fahmy: Behind the scenes of the Ramadan series "Ala Ad El Hob"

Nelly Karim reveals to Okaz the details of her Ramadan series “Ala Ad El Hob”, how she drew inspiration for her role from the international designer Azza Fahmy, in addition to the list of the cast and the story of the work.

Published

2 hours ago

March 3, 2026

Saudi Arabia News - saudinews50

Nelly Karim and Azza Fahmy: Behind the scenes of the Ramadan series "Ala Ad El Hob"

Egyptian star Nelly Karim to enter the upcoming Ramadan season with a new drama series titled “Ala Ad El Hob” (As Much as Love), which is considered one of the most anticipated works of the next season, given Nelly’s rich history of presenting complex roles that touch upon social reality.

A social drama with psychological depth

In an exclusive interview with Okaz newspaper, Nelly Karim expressed her immense enthusiasm for the series from the moment she first read the script. She emphasized that the work doesn't follow a single pace, but rather boasts significant dramatic depth spanning 30 episodes, where the characters undergo radical and continuous transformations, lending the events artistic weight and suspense that captivates viewers.

Nelly pointed out that the series delves into the details of daily life and intertwined human relationships, such as friendship, family ties, and love stories, but it focuses particularly on the hidden psychological conflicts resulting from childhood accumulations, highlighting the fact that a person’s outward appearance may be a veil that hides storms of emotions and secrets, making quick judgments about others unfair.

Azza Fahmy... a source of inspiration and identity

In preparing for the role, Nelly Karim revealed a unique artistic aspect of her new character, portraying someone connected to the world of jewelry design. She explained that she drew inspiration for the character's spirit and dimensions from the renowned Egyptian jewelry designer Azza Fahmy .

Nelly added that her choice of Azza Fahmy as a role model did not come out of nowhere, but rather stemmed from her great admiration for her unique professional style and her ability to integrate Egyptian and Arab heritage into international works of art, which is what Nelly tried to transfer to the screen to enhance the artistic identity of the character she plays.

Intensive credibility training

To ensure a realistic and believable performance, Nelly Karim didn't just prepare psychologically for the role; she also underwent intensive practical training. She learned the fundamentals of jewelry making and became familiar with the technical and artistic terminology used in this precise field. She emphasized that this direct exposure to the profession gave her a deep understanding of the character and helped her embody the role brilliantly in front of the camera.

Outstanding team

The series "Ala Ad El Hob" (As Much as Love) stars Nelly Karim alongside a host of other prominent actors, including Sherif Salama, Ahmed Saeed Abdel Ghani, Ahmed Magdy, Maha Nassar, Mahmoud El Lithy, Mohamed Abu Dawood, Mohamed Ali Rizk, Safaa El Toukhy, and Randa Ibrahim. This project continues Nelly Karim's successful run in Ramadan dramas, where audiences have come to expect her to tackle sensitive issues and deliver bold dramatic treatments that spark social debate.

Culture and Art

Dina El Sherbiny responds to rumors and reveals details of her Ramadan 2026 series

Dina El Sherbiny clarifies her stance on relationship rumors and confirms her focus on work. Learn details about her new series, "Etneen Gheirna" (Two Others), with Asser Yassin, airing in Ramadan 2026.

Published

2 hours ago

March 3, 2026

Saudi Arabia News - saudinews50

Dina El Sherbiny responds to rumors and reveals details of her Ramadan 2026 series

In new statements reflecting artistic and human maturity, Egyptian star Dina El Sherbiny revealed her strategy for dealing with the recurring rumors that affect her personal life, the latest of which was the news that circulated about her relationship with an Egyptian artist, stressing that "silence and work" are her strongest weapons in the face of the noise of social media platforms.

The philosophy of ignoring and professional focus

In a radio interview, Dina El Sherbiny explained that she has made a firm decision not to get caught up in the game of denial or confirmation, which drains an artist's energy. She indicated that the only practical response she believes in is success on screen. She emphasized that engaging in controversy only breeds more rumors, and therefore she prefers to focus entirely on embodying dramatic characters and presenting works worthy of her audience, considering her artistic career to be more enduring and important than any fleeting conversations.

Dealing with criticism and the tax of fame

In a related context, Sherbini distinguished between malicious rumors and constructive artistic criticism, indicating her complete respect for the opinions of critics and the public regarding her acting performance. She emphasized that she takes professional feedback into account to improve her skills. However, she stressed that she prefers not to have an extensive media presence or constant interaction on social media except in the most limited circumstances, preferring to return to her normal, simple life immediately after filming, away from the cameras' spotlight.

Psychological support and a rising artistic career

Dina addressed the human side of her life, emphasizing that maintaining her peace of mind is a top priority. She noted that the support she receives from her family and loved ones, along with the trust of her fans and credible critics, forms her first line of defense against any negativity. This comes at a time when Dina El Sherbiny has firmly established herself as one of the leading actresses in Egyptian drama, especially after her consecutive successes in previous Ramadan seasons, making her news a subject of widespread interest both locally and across the Arab world.

Details of the series "Two Others" in Ramadan 2026

On the professional front, Dina El Sherbiny is preparing to enter the 2026 Ramadan drama season with a highly anticipated series titled "Etneen Gheirna" (Two Others) . This project marks a special collaboration between her and star Asser Yassin, raising expectations due to their anticipated on-screen chemistry. The series also stars a number of prominent actors, including Fadwa Abed, Nour Ehab, Hanady Mehanna, Nardine Farag, and Ahmed Hassan. Written by Rana Abu El Reesh and directed by Khaled El Halfawy, the series is produced by Saadi Gawhar Productions, one of the region's leading production companies, promising a high-quality production that will be a strong contender in the upcoming season.

Culture and Art

The death of the husband of Lebanese artist Nour, Youssef Antaki, and the date of the funeral

Businessman Youssef Antaki, husband of Lebanese actress Nour, has passed away. Find out about the funeral and condolences in Heliopolis, and read the messages of condolence from fellow artists and director Mohamed Sami.

Published

2 hours ago

March 3, 2026

Saudi Arabia News - saudinews50

The death of the husband of Lebanese artist Nour, Youssef Antaki, and the date of the funeral

A state of sadness prevailed in the artistic community last night (Monday), after the announcement of the death of Syrian businessman Youssef Antaki, husband of Lebanese star Nour , according to what his brother Paul Antaki revealed through his official accounts on social media platforms.

Details of the death and funeral arrangements

Paul Antaki, the deceased's brother, announced the sad news on his Facebook page, where he mourned his brother with moving words that reflected the depth of the loss and pain felt by the family. The funeral service will be held next Thursday, March 5th, at St. Cyril's Church in the Korba area of the historic Heliopolis district.

The family is scheduled to begin receiving condolences and sympathizers at 7:30 pm inside the church halls, where a large number of relatives and friends are expected to attend, in addition to art and society stars to console the artist Nour in her great loss.

The artistic community mourns the deceased

Upon the announcement of the news, a number of artists and drama producers rushed to offer their condolences to actress Nour, expressing their full solidarity with her during this ordeal. Among the first to offer condolences was the renowned Egyptian director Mohamed Sami, who has a close professional and personal relationship with Nour.

Sami posted a message of condolence on his official Instagram account, saying: “To God we belong and to Him we shall return. The death of businessman Youssef Antaki, husband of artist Nour. We ask for your prayers for mercy and forgiveness.” This reflects the bonds that unite members of the artistic community in such difficult humanitarian circumstances.

A quiet life away from the spotlight

It is worth noting that the artist Nour married businessman Youssef Antaki in 2008, in a marriage characterized by stability and tranquility, which resulted in two children, Leonardo and Lydia. Throughout their marriage, Nour consistently and diligently kept her family life and her husband away from the media frenzy and paparazzi lenses.

Nour was known in artistic circles for her deep respect for the privacy of her home, preferring that her artistic work remain the only link between her and the public, while her personal life remains a private and sacred space away from the spotlight, which made her late husband’s media appearances extremely rare.

Nour's latest artistic milestones

On the artistic front, Nour had recently achieved remarkable success through her participation in the second season of the series “Joudar”, which was shown as part of the Ramadan 2025 drama season. The work, which starred Yasser Galal, received widespread praise and high viewership ratings, as Nour delivered a distinguished performance that added to her great artistic record in Egyptian and Arab drama.