Over 10 years after Hend Sabry played Ola Abdel-Sabour in Egyptian comedy-drama “Aiza Atgawwiz,” (I Want to Get Married), the Tunisian film and TV star is reprising her role as the much-loved pharmacist. The Cairo-based award-winner is also billed as an Executive Producer on the show entitled “Finding Ola,” working via her company Salam Productions and in co-operation with Partner Pro and Executive Producer Amin El Masri. Debuting as an Executive Producer on the Netflix Arab Original was a natural step for Sabry, who feels she has a real connection with the character. And she is hoping Ola’s latest chapter is relatable to everyone around the world as it raises global kinds of questions, while it gives an insight into life in the Middle East. Plus, the streaming giant is ensuring that in addition to its pan-Arab appeal, “Finding Ola” has an international market by subbing it in 32 languages and making it available in four dubbed versions in 190 countries.
Sabry, also a mother, humanitarian and lawyer, confirmed “Finding Ola,” directed by Hadi El-Bagoury, will be dropping on February 3 on Instagram, while offering a sneak peek. She also said Ola’s life has “completely turned upside down.” While the six-episode series continues the adventures of the middle class woman and features many of the fundamentals that made “Ayza Atgawiz” a hit, those who haven’t watched it can still enjoy the new dramedy.
When we met Ola in “Ayza Atgawiz,” she was obsessed with getting married before turning 30. And while feeling under social pressure, she goes through dozens of prospective fiancés until saying “I do.” Now in her 40s, Ola is attempting to reinvent herself as a divorcee juggling several responsibilities and dealing with the challenges of a new reality. Surrounded by help from family and friends, the strong-minded and passionate Ola is also attempting to find true love. All the loss, pain and fear lead her on a journey of self-awakening that will help her reconnect with her true self.
“Ola may be older and wiser, but she is still exploring who she is as a woman while trying to find the balance between her role as a mother, wife and entrepreneur,” according to Netflix.
Egyptian actress Sawsan Badr, who will take up the role of Ola’s mother, Suhair, and Hany Adel, who will star as Ola’s husband Hisham, star alongside Sabry. Nada Moussa, Dalia Shawky, Khaled El Nabawy, Latifa Fahmy and Mahmoud Ellithy are some of the other Arab talents who have joined the cast of the show that tackles themes like mother-daughter relationships, friendships and second chances. The surprise cameo appearances are an added reason to tune into the series with characters inspired by writer Ghada Abdel Aal, who penned the original show.
“Finding Ola” is the latest Netflix Original from the region. After the streaming platform released the critically acclaimed “AlRawbi School for Girls,” in August, it has launched a new season of the hit Saudi show “Takki” and its first Arabic reality series, “The Fastest.”
