The Basement

The poor widow Umm al-Khair raises her children, Youssef, Waraqia and Aisha. Ruqaya looks to get rich, so she gives in to Dandrawi who gets arrested after one of his buildings collapses. His wife tells Ruqaya's family about her husband's relation with her and Youssef is determined to kill him.

Directed by Atef El-Tayeb, The Basement leans on a strong ensemble — Sohier Ramzy, Layla Olwy, Sanaa Gamil — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1987.