"Rooted in cultural and film studies, this project explores male stardom in Egyptian cinema produced during the rule of Gamal Abdel Nasser, focusing specifically on the period from 1950 to 1963. The 1950s was a pivotal decade for Egypt, politically, socially, and economically and, consequently, for Egyptian cinema. Following the July 1952 coup that overthrew the monarchy, Nasser's new regime aimed to construct a new civic identity that would help the country's renaissance by adopting a new nationalist, anti-imperialist, and socialist ideology. In an attempt to find a balance between the traditional and the modern, an emphasis was placed on education, work, and gender equality. Yet, faithfulness to Egyptian traditions and values remained a key part of the state's vision of collective identity"-- Provided by publisher.