Why it matters:

The Egyptian film “A Century and Six Years” highlights the controversial subject of a fictional alliance between descendants of a Nazi figure and an Islamist leader. The film seeks to inject historical political issues into today’s debates surrounding tensions in the Middle East, but it has also stirred accusations of promoting anti-Zionist narratives and harboring antisemitic sentiments. With the film’s acknowledgment in film festivals, these themes are garnering not only a regional audience but also international scrutiny.

The details:

“A Century and Six Years” is centered around the progeny of historically noted figures–an extremist Islamist leader, Hajj Amin Al-Husseini, and Adolf Hitler. Its premise entails discussion and renewal of commitments regarding Palestine. Notorious for its poster displaying a Nazi flag, the film has already won a Jury Prize and has had an actor recognized for his performance in the work at the Sharqiyah International Film Festival.

Backing context:

The film’s story resonates with the real alliance formed during World War II between Hajj Amin Al-Husseini and Nazi leadership. Al-Husseini was appointed Grand Mufti of Jerusalem and led acts of violence against Jews while advocating antisemitic discourse and aligning with Nazi policies. His collaboration with Hitler culminated in endeavours to purge Jews, evidence of which was his direct support for Nazi purges and the formation of Muslim Waffen SS units.

Current Landscape:

The controversy afflicting “A Century and Six Years” reflects Egypt’s historical challenges with antisemitism, underscored by the ADL’s report of predominant antisemitic beliefs among the Egyptian populace and the relentless presentation of Nazi literature at notable events like the Cairo International Book Fair.

Response and Critiques:

Although there has been praise within the region for the film’s theme and accomplishments, critiques have surfaced too, citing an inclination in the film toward a Zionist narrative and misinformation about Arab support for Nazism. These criticisms urge a shift in focus toward different historical perspectives such as the Nakba. Film actors and creators have caused further dismay with public statements and social media posts deemed to be antisemitic, attacking both the modern Jewish state and proliferating old conspiracies against Jews.

The uncertainty ahead:

The debate surrounding “A Century and Six Years” uncovers deep-seated issues relating to historical accuracy, representation of affinity to Nazism, and the expression of ideological conflicts through art. With potential wider distribution in the future, the dialogue generated by the film’s matter is sure to intensify within international circles.

This story was first published on jpost.com.