Exclusive Interview with Mohamed Zouaoui, Star of the New Film ‘Code Karim’
“I love cinema, cinema allows you to have many different experiences, travel, get to know different realities. You can live many lives; doctor, waiter, poor, rich. Only cinema can give you this opport
Original Article 30th Nov 2020
The 2020 American Film Market (AFM) was buzzing with panel discussions and expert insights from industry professionals, who have worked on major Hollywood productions. In this review, I will highlight some standout films featured at AFM, including Code Karim.
Behind the Scenes: Director Federico Alotto and Mohamed Zouaoui
The film opens with Karim (Mohamed Zouaoui), who has just left war-torn Syria after years of conflict. He is haunted by the brutal acts of violence and death that have defined that period of his life.
Upon returning to Italy, his homeland, he immediately joins a terrorist cell, where his reputation as a fighter precedes him. However, things are not as they seem, as both the police and security services are in communication with Karim. The central question becomes: is he a double agent working for Italian security services, or is he truly committed to the terrorist group's cause?
A Timely and Complex Narrative
The film’s premise is highly relevant, given the terrorist attacks that have occurred in European cities over recent years. Interestingly, Italy has largely avoided large-scale attacks despite having a Muslim population of approximately 2.5 million. This presents a vast scope for storytelling about Muslims in Italy.
It would have been fascinating to see how Federico Alotto, the writer and director, could have delved deeper into some of the story's critical elements.
For example, the backgrounds of the terrorists and their reasons for joining are not explored in much detail. Some of them are converts to Islam, which presents an opportunity to examine their motivations—an element that feels like a missed opportunity. Likewise, the audience is given little insight into Karim’s past. We don’t know where he is originally from, why he got involved with security services years ago, or what his long-term aims and ambitions are.
Character Depth and Engagement
The film could have had an even greater impact had the audience understood Karim’s internal struggles better. This would have heightened emotional investment in his life-changing decisions and the climactic ending.
By the film’s conclusion, the audience is left pondering key questions:
Will the terrorists succeed in their mission, or will the security services stop them?
Which side will Karim ultimately choose?
Comparison with Traitor (2008)
Similar to the 2008 film Traitor, which also follows an undercover Muslim secret agent, Code Karim raises important questions about the role of Muslim identity in counterterrorism. The film invites discussion on the moral dilemmas individuals face working to infiltrate terrorist groups. However, it leaves open the question:
"What sins and crimes must be committed to gain the trust needed to serve the security services?"
Production Quality & Performance
While Code Karim briefly touches on these complex themes, its primary focus is as an action-thriller. The story moves at a fast pace, the directing is sharp, and the cinematography and editing are impressively polished, especially considering its budget.
The highlight of the film is Mohamed Zouaoui’s performance as Karim. His acting is subtle yet captivating, and he delivers one of the year's most compelling performances.
Zouaoui, originally from Tunisia, trained in Italy and has been acting in films and TV series for nearly two decades, earning awards and critical acclaim. His performance in Code Karim combines Omar Sharif's talent with Steve McQueen's charisma. I highly recommend watching Lawrence of Arabia (1962) and Papillon (1973) for younger audiences unfamiliar with these actors.
Exclusive Interview with Mohamed Zouaoui
I spoke with Mohamed Zouaoui about his role in Code Karim and his journey as an actor.
It was a pleasure watching Code Karim. How did you prepare for the role of a fighter and secret agent?
Mohamed Zouaoui:
"Honestly, I don’t do any kind of preparation—no method acting or special techniques. I am a man of instinct; I live in the moment. As soon as the director says ‘action,’ I commit fully. My goal is to be credible, real, and sincere—nothing more, nothing less."
How can filmmakers contribute to the dialogue between Muslims and non-Muslims?
Mohamed Zouaoui:
"Cinema plays a crucial role in promoting peace and interfaith dialogue. It fosters respect and tolerance. Directors and screenwriters, in particular, have a responsibility to send positive messages and educate the public."
What inspired you to become an actor?
Mohamed Zouaoui:
"I love cinema. It allows you to experience different realities—different lives. One day you are a doctor, another day a waiter, a poor man, a rich man. Only cinema can offer this unique experience."
If you had the opportunity to play any role, what would it be?
Mohamed Zouaoui:
"I am passionate about auteur cinema. If I had to choose one role, it would be to portray Muammar Gaddafi—a truly unique character with immense charisma."
How has acting helped you find your true identity?
Mohamed Zouaoui:
"Acting allows you to dream. And what could be better in life than dreaming?"