Happy Birthday": A Heartwarming Tale of Resilience and Talent
This Oscar season brings a heartwarming tale of an eight-year-old maid in the film "Happy Birthday." Directed by Sarah Goher and co-written with Mohamed Diab, the movie is Egypt's entry for the best international feature category at the 2026 Oscars. Produced by Jamie Foxx, the film stars newcomer Doha Ramadan alongside Nelly Karim, Hanan Motawie, Sherif Salama, and Aly Sobhy.
"Happy Birthday" follows the story of Doha, a young maid working for an affluent family in Cairo, determined to throw a memorable birthday party for her employer's daughter. The film delves into themes of class, power, and belonging through the innocent eyes of a child, as highlighted in a preview for the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival.
Premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival, "Happy Birthday" received accolades for best international narrative feature and best screenplay. Inspired by personal experiences, director Sarah Goher drew from her childhood memories in Cairo, where she discovered the reality of child labor in Egypt's society.
The casting of the young lead, Doha Ramadan, was crucial to the film's success. Goher conducted extensive auditions and activities to find the right fit for the character. Ramadan's talent and creativity shone through, captivating the audience with her portrayal of Toha in the film.
To support Ramadan's growth beyond the movie, Goher initiated an "enrichment program" for the young actress. This program included private tutoring for reading and writing, as well as enrolling her in ballet classes at the Cairo Opera House's gifted youth center. Ramadan's family has been supportive of her artistic journey, allowing her to explore her potential as an artist.
Through "Happy Birthday," director Sarah Goher aims to showcase the resilience and spirit of young talent like Doha Ramadan. The film not only tells a compelling story but also uplifts the importance of providing opportunities for children to pursue their artistic passions.