In the rapidly evolving world of Arab cinema and advertising, one name stands out for pushing creative boundaries: Karim Shaaban. Whether you know him from his captivating short films or his visually stunning commercials, Shaaban is a director who blends human emotion with striking visuals, leaving a lasting impact on his audience.

Who Is Karim Shaaban?

Karim Shaaban is an Egyptian director known for his work in both independent films and high-profile commercial projects. His unique storytelling style combines artistic depth with commercial appeal, making him a favorite among brands like Hyundai, Toyota, and TRESemmé​.

Over the years, he has built a reputation as a filmmaker who brings emotional resonance to even the most straightforward advertising campaigns.

Karim’s journey into filmmaking is rooted in his desire to tell stories that challenge societal norms and push audiences to think. His work often revolves around the tension between human emotion and the commercial demands of the industry. In I Don’t Care if the World Collapses, this tension is brought to life when an actor receives devastating news during a commercial shoot, forcing the production team to confront the moral question of whether empathy or business should come first​.

This film was inspired by real-life events from his career in advertising, where financial pressures often overshadowed human empathy​.

This personal reflection on the nature of capitalism and human connection is what sets Karim apart as a filmmaker. He doesn’t just create visually stunning pieces—he infuses them with emotional depth that leaves a lasting impact on the viewer.

Karim Shaaban has worked on a wide array of projects, from short films to full-scale advertising campaigns. His ability to transition seamlessly between the world of cinema and advertising has made him one of the most versatile filmmakers in the Arab world. His work reflects a deep understanding of both mediums, blending commercial appeal with artistic integrity.

As Karim continues to work on new projects, he remains committed to bringing authentic, emotional storytelling to every piece he creates. His upcoming projects, including potential feature-length films, promise to explore even more complex narratives​.

In our exclusive interview, Karim opens up about his creative process, the challenges he’s faced in his career, and his vision for the future of Arab cinema. He shares insights into the making of I Don’t Care if the World Collapses and what it takes to maintain artistic integrity in the fast-paced world of commercial filmmaking.