Biography
Director/Writer: Hisham Saqr blends his editorial background in Egyptian cinema with a bold storytelling voice in Certified Mail. Saqr’s work on this feature showcases a nuanced approach to mental health and postpartum experiences within contemporary Egyptian society, inviting empathetic dialogue and critical conversation.
Lead Cast: Basma Hassan stars as Hala, delivering a nuanced performance that anchors the film’s emotional core. The production teams include Film Clinic and White Feather, known for supporting daring, character-driven storytelling in regional cinema. Co-stars include Passant Shawky, contributing depth to the ensemble cast.
Genre & Themes: A drama exploring mental health, postpartum depression, and societal attitudes in Egypt, with a mood-driven score by Ahmed Saleh. The film invites audiences to consider personal and communal responses to mental health challenges and stigma.
Awards & Festival History: World Premiere at TIFF in the Discovery section (2019), with subsequent coverage in AFMI’s TIFF 2019 roundup. The film has screened at multiple festivals through distributor channels and earned recognition for its sound design, including Best Soundtrack at CineMed Film Festival in Montpellier.
Social Media & Official Pages: Director Hisham Saqr is active on X/Twitter as @hishamsakr, while Basma Hassan maintains a public presence on Twitter as @basmahbm. For more film updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow their official channels and the production companies.
Upcoming Screenings: As a film, Certified Mail is presented through festivals and distribution rather than a traditional tour. Expect festival appearances and special screenings to be announced as distributors schedule events in various cities. Secure your seats for festival screenings when announced and stay tuned for Q&As and panel discussions connected to screening programs.
Venue & Screening Details: Each festival or venue listing provides specific screening times, dates, and venue information. Check the festival schedule and distributor listings for the most current dates, locations, and accessibility details.