Tickling Giants 2017
"Are you brave enough to tell a joke?"
In the turbulent wake of the Arab Spring, Egypt's political rollercoaster takes a darkly comic turn in *Tickling Giants* (2017), a gripping documentary that follows Bassem Youssef—a former heart surgeon turned satirist—as he becomes the Jon Stewart of Egypt.
Director: Sara Taksler
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tickling Giants (2017) about?
*Tickling Giants* chronicles Egypt's tumultuous political journey through the lens of Bassem Youssef's groundbreaking comedy show. From the euphoria of the Arab Spring to the sobering return of authoritarian rule, the film explores how satire became a tool for both hope and defiance. At its heart, it's a story about the power—and peril—of free speech in a nation fighting for its voice.
Who directed Tickling Giants?
The documentary was directed by Sara Taksler, whose keen eye for storytelling brings Bassem Youssef's extraordinary journey to life with wit and urgency.
Who stars in Tickling Giants?
The film features Bassem Youssef, the Egyptian comedian dubbed the 'Jon Stewart of the Arab world,' along with fellow cast members Shady Alfons, Khaled Mansour, Ayman Wattar, and Mohamed Andeel.
Is Tickling Giants (2017) worth watching?
As a political satire wrapped in a personal odyssey, *Tickling Giants* is both entertaining and thought-provoking. While it doesn't have an IMDb rating, its themes of resilience and free expression make it a compelling watch for fans of documentaries and social commentary. If you're drawn to stories of underdogs fighting against the odds—or simply love sharp, topical humor—this film delivers.
How long is Tickling Giants?
The documentary runs for 111 minutes, offering a concise yet impactful dive into its powerful subject matter.
🎥 Trailer
About Tickling Giants (2017) — The Comedy Show That Challenged a Dictatorship
In the turbulent wake of the Arab Spring, Egypt's political rollercoaster takes a darkly comic turn in *Tickling Giants* (2017), a gripping documentary that follows Bassem Youssef—a former heart surgeon turned satirist—as he becomes the Jon Stewart of Egypt. Directed by Sara Taksler, this 111-minute film dives into the rise and fall of *The Show*, a comedy program that briefly united a fractured nation while testing the limits of free speech. With sharp wit and fearless candor, the documentary captures the highs of democratic hope and the crushing lows of regression, all through the lens of a revolution that dared to laugh in the face of oppression.
At its core, *Tickling Giants* is a celebration of humor as resistance, blending personal stories with the sweeping drama of Egypt's political upheaval. Bassem Youssef's journey—from a cardiologist to a late-night icon—mirrors the country's own struggle for identity, making this film a poignant reminder of how satire can both unite and provoke. Taksler's direction infuses the documentary with energy, urgency, and a touch of dark humor, ensuring it resonates far beyond Egypt's borders.