📽 AT THE MOVIES-

Abigail was kidnapped, but this isn’t Taken. The thriller may start like a classic abduction flick — a shady crew waits for the young daughter of a bn’aire to be alone before kidnapping her for a ransom — but Abigail isn’t your average little girl. That may seem like a giveaway, but you don’t know what you’re in for. We suggest you skip the trailer.

What makes Abigail special is its ability to toe the line between thriller and comedy — the makings of a cult classic. The absurdity of certain aspects of the plot would have easily made the film a dud, but the acknowledgment of it by the characters fosters a more engrossing watch instead.

Scream queen Melissa Barrera is in her natural habitat as Joey, a member of the crew that kidnaps Abigail (Alisha Weir), alongside Dean (late Angus Cloud in his last role), Sammy (Kathryn Newton), Peter (Kevin Durand), and Frank (Dan Stevens). A severely underutilized Giancarlo Esposito, who you might know as Gustavo Fring from Breaking Bad, also makes an appearance.

A large part of the appeal behind Abigail is that it doesn’t take itself too seriously. That with the addition of Tarantino-level gore is sure to give people looking to enjoy a movie a good time. It’s a popcorn flick in the best sense — a fun, entertaining ride that’s perfect for a night out (or in) with people who enjoy a scare and a chuckle.

WHERE TO WATCH- Abigail is currently on screens at VOX Cinemas at City Center Almaza and Mall of Egypt.

📚 FROM THE BOOKSTORE-

If books can be awarded for conspicuous titles this one would take the prize: IWant to Die But I Want to EatTteokpokki by Baek Se-hee is a non-fiction book which follows the author’s real journey through anxiety and depression.

The narrative is built on conversations the author had with her psychiatrist along with some self-reflection essays where she analyzes and expands on parts of the dialogue. She dives into details regarding aspects in her past and traditional Korean culture that might have led her to feel at odds with her surroundings.

There is some humor within the raw emotions. Baek has put her experience to paper to extend this feeling to those who might feel the same way. She shows us how living comes with ups and downs and how there are, in fact, ways to manage them and understand them as part of our being.

You can find it at Diwan.

🍴 HOT AND FRESH OUT OF THE KITCHEN-

Wood-fired meats at Kokomo. Once nestled along the serene shores of Somabay, Kokomo makes its way to the bustling city of Cairo in District 5 resurrecting the art of intuitive eating with its wood-fired wonders.

A feast for the senses. We started with the Korean lamb chops, they were tender with a slightly charred exterior that added depth to the flavor. The marinade had, what we humbly believe are Korean spices and a touch of sweetness from honey. Our senses were well satisfied with the balance of flavors that are both savory and aromatic.

Kimchi fans should check out their chicken wings. Crispy and succulent, these wings are coated in a tangy kimchi glaze that packs a punch of flavor. The kimchi adds a subtle heat and acidity, complemented by the charred notes from the grill.

Food aside, the ambiance was one of the highlights. Kokomo resembles a modern Viking mead hall. The wooden beams, high ceilings and the flickering glow of the wood-fired oven cast a warm embrace.

PRO TIP- You must reserve using their online reservation system here or call their number on their Instagram.

💵 Per person: 600-1000

🪑 Outdoor seating: No

🍺 Alcohol: Yes

🦽 Accessibility friendly: Yes