In 1967 Fairuz participated in the creation of something so great that it will forever be remembered in theatrical history as a masterpiece, namely ‘Hala W Al Malek’ (Hala and the King). And now Miriam Fares brings this piece which was written by the Rahbani Brothers a bit closer to the contemporary audience in the form of the film ‘Celena’! The story –or fairytale- is beautiful in its combination of elegant simplicity, romance and fantasy.

Although it would be stupid to compare the movie with the play or Miriam with Fairuz for that matter, one must commend Miriam for an outstanding performance. She did not try in any way to ‘keep up’ with her predecessor; instead she gave a spontaneous genuine performance. Here is someone who can excel as an actress and as a singer, and who people will look forward to seeing in more musical pieces in the future. The piece is timeless and adaptable to any period or nation.

This film made a great piece of literature more accessible to us in our day and age, and if you have not yet seen it then you must!

By Karim