Egyptian artist and gastroenterology professor Mohamed Ghanim has shared his insights on the intersection of medicine and acting. In a recent interview with Karm El-Azayzi on the "From Another Angle" program, Ghanim explained that the pursuit of scientific knowledge can foster artistic growth. He cited the example of the first medical book, "The Art of Medicine," to illustrate the long-standing connection between the two fields.
Ghanim expressed his surprise by announcing that he would not be portraying a doctor in any film or television drama, despite lucrative offers. He described his limited previous experiences in this role as unsuccessful, stating that he felt he was simply reenacting his daily routine rather than exploring his creative side. Ghanim emphasized that acting requires him to step out of his comfort zone and discover new characters, which he cannot do when playing a doctor.
The artist compared his approach to those of other doctors who have transitioned into acting. He noted that the late Dr. Samir El-Malla primarily played doctor roles, while Dr. Yehia El-Fakharani and Dr. Fouad Khalil chose to leave medicine behind to focus on acting. Ghanim, however, insists on maintaining medicine as his primary profession and acting as a hobby driven by passion and cultural enrichment.
Ghanim discussed his ability to switch between his academic persona and more relatable characters. He attributed this skill to his cultural knowledge and keen observations, citing his portrayal of "Sobhi Thermostat" in the series "Gaafar El-Omda" as an example. To prepare for this role, Ghanim immersed himself in the character's world, purchasing worn clothing to get into character.
Recalling the making of "Sobhi Thermostat," Ghanim shared behind-the-scenes anecdotes. He revealed that he improvised a pivotal scene, using his understanding of the character's personality to bring authenticity to the performance. Ghanim emphasized that combining the precision of science with the freedom of art allows him to deliver more genuine and engaging performances.
Ghanim highlighted the benefits of balancing his medical and artistic pursuits. By merging these two aspects of his life, he can draw inspiration from his experiences as a doctor to create more nuanced characters. This approach enables him to connect with audiences on a deeper level, making his performances more relatable and impactful.
Ghanim's unique blend of medicine and acting has allowed him to bring a fresh perspective to the entertainment industry. His commitment to both professions has not only enriched his artistic endeavors but also provided him with a distinctive voice and vision. As he continues to navigate the intersection of medicine and acting, Ghanim remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of his craft.
Key points
- Mohamed Ghanim refuses to play doctor roles in film or television drama.
- Ghanim balances medicine and acting, citing cultural enrichment and passion as driving forces.
- The artist credits his medical background with enhancing his performances and connecting with audiences.
