? Since the release of Lam Shamsiyya’s teaser trailer before the start of Ramadan, the show has captured the audience’s attention, especially among those who were already fans of the work of director Karim El Shennawy and the Sard Workshop. After just three episodes, Lam Shamsiyya has not only become the subject of conversation on many an iftar table, but also received widespread acclaim, making it the undisputed star of this year’s Ramadan drama season.

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The setup: Nelly (Amina Khalil) lives with her husband Tarek (Ahmed El Saadany), and his young son Youssef (child actor Ali) from a previous marriage, and their son Yassin. It is clear early on that Nelly is a hardworking mother who is extremely dedicated to the happiness and comfort of her family. She pays special attention to Youssef, who is shown to be irritable, have rapid mood swings, and prone to introversion and isolation. Wesam (Mohamed Shahin), is not only Tarek’s oldest friend — one could mistake them for brothers —, but also a professor of Arabic, who offers to tutor Youssef.

A parent’s worst nightmare: The tragedy occurs the day of Youssef’s ninth birthday party, which was organized by Nelly and held in their home. Wesam volunteers to help Youssef change his clothes, and Nelly — not anticipating anything suspicious — walks into the room only to find him sexually harassing her step-son. Events escalate, and Tarek and Wesam get into a physical altercation that leaves the latter in a coma, after which events unfold in a framework of chaos and uncertainty.

The series tackles a thorny issue that is seldom discussed in Arab societies, as referenced by poet Mustafa Ibrahim’s words, which Wesam recites to Youssef: “The sun’s ‘lam’ is neglected — not everything that exists is acknowledged.” This offering from El Shennawy differs not only in its concept, but also in its presentation — it creates a state of tension, discomfort, and doubt that leaves viewers wondering whether what Nelly saw was real or a paranoid manifestation of every parent’s worst nightmare.

The series also skillfully and accurately addresses the psychological complexities of children that fall victim to harassment, crowned by the impressive performance of child actor Ali, signaling an exceptional talent in the making. Meanwhile, both Khalil and Shahin in particular — but also the whole cast in general — portrayed their characters with excellence.

DISCLAIMER- The series contains scenes that may not be suitable for some viewers, especially children and those who have previously experienced such crimes.

WHERE TO WATCH- Lam Shamsiyya is streaming on Shahid and Watchit, and the trailer is available on YouTube (runtime: 1:09).

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