Actor Yorgo Shalhoub delivers a powerful performance in the series 'Al-Muhafaza 15', portraying the character 'Fouad', a prisoner who suffered for 28 years in detention. Shalhoub relied on psychological studies and real-life experiences to bring authenticity to the role, allowing him to deeply touch the audience's emotions.
In an interview with 'Asharq Al-Awsat', Shalhoub explained that he envisioned the character's features in his mind, where thinking about her suffering transported him into her world. He emphasized that what he presented is based on real human models, which helped him accurately shape the character's dimensions.
Event Details
Shalhoub noted that the character consumed his thoughts and emotions, making him feel a significant responsibility to convey a real suffering. He stated, "When we dive into the role, it must inhabit us, which generates a renewed performance." He portrayed 'Fouad' in clothing that reflects a past era, adding further depth to the character.
Shalhoub based his character on live testimonies and dialogue excerpts from former detainees, saying, "Every detainee has their story, so I gathered different experiences that intersect with the character, making it logical and close to reality." He described 'Fouad' as a brave and daring person, with a desire to protect others, which gave the role a unique human quality.
Background & Context
This experience comes within the framework of Lebanese drama that highlights important humanitarian issues, as 'Al-Muhafaza 15' reflects the suffering of detainees in Lebanon. The work has received widespread interaction from the audience, especially from the families of former detainees who expressed their emotional response to the role.
Shalhoub, who is considered one of the prominent actors in the artistic scene, confirmed that this role represents an important milestone in his career, stating, "I always believe that the (role of a lifetime) is the one I have not yet performed." He also praised the chemistry of working with writer Karen Rizkallah, noting that each work has its own identity.
Impact & Consequences
Shalhoub's success in portraying 'Fouad' reflects the ability of drama to address sensitive humanitarian issues, contributing to raising awareness about the suffering of detainees. Shalhoub pointed out that conveying this suffering was not easy, stating, "These people were abandoned by the Lebanese state and entered a circle of oblivion."
This role, which combines reality and imagination, contributes to enhancing dialogue about human rights issues in the region and reflects the importance of art as a means of expressing human suffering.
Regional Significance
Shalhoub's experience in 'Al-Muhafaza 15' serves as a model in Arab drama, shedding light on humanitarian issues related to freedom and justice. The work also contributes to enhancing artistic culture in the Arab world and reflects the challenges artists face in addressing such topics.
In conclusion, Yorgo Shalhoub's role in 'Al-Muhafaza 15' marks a significant point in his artistic journey, reflecting the power of art to impact society and bring about positive change.