Brigadier General Mohyi Noah, a commander of the 39th combat group during the War of Attrition and a hero of the 1973 October War, has shared the behind-the-scenes story of his encounter with the director of the film 'Al Mamarr', Sherif Arafa, and the cast, including actor Ahmed Ezz. Noah revealed that his character in the film was not based on fictional treatments but rather on extensive sessions with the filmmakers.
According to Noah, the preparation for his character involved reviewing personal photos, possessions, and press archives, as well as interactive meetings with the cast to understand the military behavior and field interactions with Bedouin in Sinai and enemy forces. He highlighted the famous 'Central Mansoura' incident in 1967, which was recreated in the film to demonstrate the popular discontent and immediate response to any transgressions against the armed forces and state leadership.
The incident involved Noah, then an officer, visiting the Central Mansoura telephone exchange to make calls to his unit stationed in Port Said to check on the situation. However, he was confronted by some individuals who insulted the Egyptian army and its national leadership. Noah did not hesitate to confront the offenders inside the building and protect the dignity of the military institution.
Noah also discussed the complex commando operations behind enemy lines, including the strategic storming of Israeli enemy sites 50 kilometers east of the Suez Canal under the command of the late hero Ibrahim Al-Refai. He explained that the military tactic involved infiltrating through gaps in the minefields used by the enemy to avoid detection.
During the operation, the commando groups were exposed to targeted explosions that resulted in Noah being injured in the back and some of his soldiers being killed or injured. The situation turned into a fierce battle and direct confrontation with enemy tanks that tried to close the passage and surround the group.
Noah emphasized that the fighting spirit and military determination shown by the Egyptian soldier were the primary drivers of recovering the land and preserving national dignity. His story serves as a testament to the bravery and resilience of Egyptian soldiers during times of conflict.
The film 'Al Mamarr' has sparked interest in Egypt's military history, with many praising the accurate portrayal of events and the bravery of soldiers like Noah. The film's release has also generated discussions about the importance of preserving national history and honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for their country.
Key points
- Brigadier General Mohyi Noah recounts his experience during the 1967 'Central Mansoura' incident.
- Noah's character in the film 'Al Mamarr' was based on real events and extensive sessions with filmmakers.
- The film highlights the bravery and resilience of Egyptian soldiers during times of conflict.
