Directed by Nader Galal and starring Adel Emam, the film was well-received upon release for its unique storyline and engaging execution.
The story revolves around Harfoosẖ Bin Barqouq Al-Rakib Dar (Arabic: حرفوش بن برقوق الراكب دار, played by Adel Emam), a womanizing knight from the town of Rosetta from the late 18th century.
Following the advice of the locals during the repelling of the occupation, Harfoush embarks on a mission to deliver a life-saving message to Egypt's ruler at the time, Muhammad Ali, warning of impending disaster.
Confused by the strange and fast-paced society he finds himself in, Harfoush's determination to accomplish his mission remains unwavering, driving the plot forward with moments of honest comedy and drama.
As Harfoush grapples with the challenges of navigating the unfamiliar world of modern Egypt, he encounters various characters who symbolize the bureaucracy and corruption of his time and the present.
Through these interactions, the film explores deeper themes of political and social justice, focusing on the perpetual struggles of the common man.
Novelist Nabil Farouk accused the film's writer, Bassam Ismail, of stealing the story from his booklet, The Mission, from the Cocktail 2000 series.
The protagonist, Harfoush (played by Adel Emam), a charismatic yet womanizing knight, embarks on a mission to deliver a vital message to the Ruler (the Wali).
In a bizarre twist, he is attacked by the French and then hides in a cave, where he meets a Jinn who suddenly transports him to modern Cairo 200 years later (in 1998), without understanding how or why this time shift has occurred.
This sudden jump to a completely unfamiliar era leaves him perplexed, while providing him with comedic and poignant moments as Harfoush interacts with modern Egyptian society, which he finds strange and confusing.
Adel Emam's performance combines his trademark humor with a more nuanced and dramatic portrayal of an honorable yet naïve man struggling to navigate a world he doesn't understand.
His portrayal is noted for balancing comedic elements—particularly in scenes where he navigates modern societal norms—with a more somber message about the enduring struggles of ordinary citizens.