You Can Keep Tickling Giants but the Giant Isn’t Laughing


If you are a dictator please stop reading this review now to prevent being tickled (or prodded).

There will be tears. Whether those tears are from witnessing the political turbulence in Egypt starting with the Egyptian revolution in 2011, or because of tears of joy from Bassem Youssef’s spot-on, amusing satire, you may need a tissue or two. Director Sara Taksler takes us on a journey with everyone’s favorite surgeon turned comedian, Bassem Youssef, who uses satire through his TV show El-Bernameg to give voice to the feelings, thoughts, and grievances of his fellow Egyptians. Much like the resonant laughter heard in any audience of Youssef’s, Tickling Giants gets a resounding 10/10 for its balance of humor and critical critique.

During the trip that is Tickling Giants, we see how Bassem Youssef uses humor to attempt to challenge the status-quo, an uncommon occurrence within Egypt. The film showcases the people of Egypt, the development of El-Bernameg, the public’s response to the show, and the rise and fall of regimes, all seamlessly packaged together to shine a light on the affairs of Egypt; both the past affairs and how all of this has impacted the culture of dialogue within Egypt. By displaying the ebb and flow of the dialogue within Egypt, as well as the shifts in the culture and acceptance of both the state of affairs and Bassem Youssef, Tickling Giants provides a look at the Egyptian revolution and the events surrounding and following it from a deeper, critical, and more satirical lens.

Looking beyond the blunt analysis, the film does a superb job in the realm of production as well. With captivating shots of Egyptians revolting, up close and personal shots of Youssef and a variety of either characters and civilians vulnerably expressing their thoughts, or scenes of Youssef’s staff joking around in the midst of perceived chaos, the film creates visceral and authentic emotions within the viewer. Tickling Giants does a masterful job of connecting the viewer with the message by helping align the intent of the film with the impact on the audience.

It’s important to note the intended audience when trying to understand why this film is so impactful; the West. By showing the growing desire for freedom, the hopeful democracy, and a familiar face in Jon Stewart, it’s clear that Taksler was trying to cater to a more western audience. The ideas of democracy and freedom run strong in the west, and the focus on these ideas, specifically the struggle of encouraging democracy and freedom of speech, masterfully showcased in the film, elicit strong reactions in the hearts of those familiar with the ideals of the West.

The rise and fall of dictators, waves of freedom of speech and expression, side-splitting comedy, and heartbreaking realities; these are just a few things to expect when watching Tickling Giants. Going in with both an open mind and heart will help you understand and fully appreciate the depth and power of the film.