Playing with the Big Boys (Arabic: اللعب مع الكبار, romanized: Al-La‘ib Ma‘a Al-Kibār) is an Egyptian comedy-drama film released in 1991.

Directed by Sherif Arafa and written by the renowned screenwriter Wahid Hamed, the film features a star-studded cast including Adel Emam, Hussein Fahmy, Mahmoud el-Gendy, Mustafa Metwalli, and Aida Riad.

[1][2][3] The film is known for its compelling narrative, intense performances, and exploration of social and political themes relevant to contemporary Egyptian society.

It portrays Hassan (Adel Emam) as an ordinary man whose courage and determination propel him into the perilous world of systemic corruption.

His journey examines the cost of loyalty, the dynamics of power, and the resilience needed to challenge injustice, ultimately illustrating the audacity required to “Playing with the Big Boys.” The film follows the journey of Hassan Behnasi Behloul (Adel Emam), an ordinary, unemployed citizen who frequents "Fatouh Café," located at the corner of "Barghout Alley."

The next day, Hassan reports to Officer Mo'tasem that heroin is being smuggled in the suitcase of a politically protected figure whose immunity shields him from searches.

The syndicate eventually discovers that the confidential information Hassan has been providing to security forces originates from his friend, Ali Al-Zahhar.

To protect Ali's identity, Hassan steadfastly conceals his source, even under immense pressure and torture, maintaining the narrative that his knowledge comes from dreams.

Hassan and Ali devise a bold plan to expose high-level corruption and criminal activities, targeting the influential elite.

Playing with the Big Boys received widespread critical acclaim for its powerful performances, especially by Adel Emam, whose portrayal of Hassan was praised for its depth and relatability.

[5][6] The film is widely regarded as one of the finest works written by screenwriter Wahid Hamed, marking his sixth collaboration with Adel Emam.

[7][8] Fathi Farag remarked on the film, noting that Wahid Hamed demonstrated skill in crafting a screenplay that effectively combines seriousness with an awareness of real-world issues, while also meeting the demands of popular success.

While Adel Emam’s portrayal of Hassan often sees him strolling through the streets of the Interior Ministry as though he were walking in Zamalek’s fish garden, joking with informants, the character is simultaneously exposed to the grim sounds of torture.

The film carries a distinct tone of satire, particularly aimed at the vast, convoluted bureaucratic procedures that yield no real results.

"Playing with the Big Boys" is both a popular and highly successful film, with Adel Emam delivering a performance that captures his signature comedic style.