4.6 / 10 (based on 59 reviews)
On the edge of Egypt’s qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, Ramez dresses up as one Ms. Cúper, the sister Héctor Cúper, Egypt’s Head Coach – and the pranks ensue – in sub-zero temperatures.
Genre: Comedy, Reality-TV
Main Cast: Ramez Galal, Magdy Abd El Ghany
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25-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Ramez Taht el-Sifr (2018)
Ramez, The Air Invader (2015)
4.8 / 10 (based on 75 reviews)
The protagonist does a candid camera tricks on famous movie stars using an airplane.
Genre: Short, Comedy, Reality-TV
Main Cast: Ramez Galal, Hisham Abbas, Amina, Abdallah Balkhair
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1 season, 30 episodes
Ramez Plays with Fire (2016)
3.4 / 10 (based on 142 reviews)
Ramez returns to prank movie stars, this time he is “Playing with Fire!”
Genre: Comedy, Reality-TV
Main Cast: Ramez Galal, Antonio Banderas, Steven Seagal, Idward
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1 season, 32 episodes, 26.0-minute runtime
Ramez the Sea Shark (2014)
4.2 / 10 (based on 49 reviews)
Ramez interferes with his guests’ trip at sea – arriving as a robotic shark while they are stranded in the water.
Genre: Short, Comedy, Reality-TV
Main Cast: Ramez Galal
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25.0-minute runtime
Ramez Goes Underground (2017)
4.4 / 10 (based on 57 reviews)
After their transportation breaks down during a bone breaking desert safari, Ramez chases his guests as a Komodo dragon rising from quick sand.
Genre: Short, Comedy, Reality-TV
Main Cast: Ramez Galal
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25.0-minute runtime
Ramez Ankh Amon (2013)
5.3 / 10 (based on 51 reviews)
Ramez hijacks a guided tour to the pyramids, and leads his guests to believe he is a mummy returning from the dead.
Genre: Short, Comedy, Reality-TV
Main Cast: Ramez Galal
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25.0-minute runtime
Ramez the Desert Fox (2012)
4.5 / 10 (based on 35 reviews)
Ramez stages a kidnapping in the desert, and takes his guests as blindfolded hostages.
Genre: Short, Comedy, Reality-TV
Main Cast: Ramez Galal
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25.0-minute runtime
Naji Attallah’s Squad (2012)
6.6 / 10 (based on 1653 reviews)
Naji Atallah, a former egyptian diplomat in the egyptian embassy in israel, seeks revenge against israelis as he plans to rob a bank in telaviv with a squad of youths he recruited.
Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Crime, Drama, Thriller
Main Cast: Adel Emam, Ahmed El-Tuhami, Muhammad Emam, Bahgat Al Jubouri
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1 season, 30 episodes
The Oracle 2013 (2013)
7.6 / 10 (based on 494 reviews)
A man who had a difficult life in the past tries to meet his children after many years without seeing them.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Riham Ayman, Mohamed El-Shaqanqery, Adel Emam, Hussein Fahmy
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Television has a knack for pushing boundaries, especially when it comes to reality TV. Among the myriad of shows that seek to entertain, shock, and awe, “Ramez Taht el-Sifr” stands out, not just for its unique premise but also for the reactions it elicits from its guests and viewers alike. Hosted by Ramez Galal, a well-known Egyptian prankster, actor, and entertainer, this show has carved out its niche in the realm of reality television. Let’s take a closer look at what makes “Ramez Taht el-Sifr” a talking point across various circles.
The Premise
At its core, “Ramez Taht el-Sifr” is a prank show, but labeling it just that doesn’t do justice to its elaborate setup and execution. Each episode features an unsuspecting celebrity lured under false pretenses to a location where Ramez Galal, the mastermind behind the pranks, awaits. What sets this show apart is its setting – under the guise of an interview or a similar engagement, guests are taken to a submarine setting, deep underwater, setting the stage for the prank.
The Execution
The show’s title, “Ramez Taht el-Sifr,” translates to “Ramez in Zero,” referring to the below-sea-level antics. The execution of the pranks involves a series of orchestrated events designed to induce panic or shock. From simulated submarine malfunctions to encounters with marine life, the pranks are as elaborate as they are terrifying for the participants. Ramez Galal, donning various disguises, often reveals himself only after the prank reaches its climax, leading to a mix of relief, anger, or laughter from the pranked celebrity.
The Controversy
With such a premise, it’s no surprise that “Ramez Taht el-Sifr” has its fair share of controversy. Critics argue that the extreme nature of the pranks borders on cruelty, putting guests in situations where their fear is not just palpable but also exploited for entertainment. The show has sparked debates on the ethics of such pranks, with some calling for it to be toned down or even canceled. However, it continues to attract a significant viewership, with many tuning in precisely for its shock value.
The Appeal
So, what draws people to “Ramez Taht el-Sifr”? It’s a mix of factors. First, there’s the celebrity factor. Seeing familiar faces, often composed and in control, being caught off guard and reacting in raw, unfiltered ways is undeniably compelling. There’s also the element of surprise – not just for the guests but for the audience, as each episode promises something unexpected. Lastly, there’s Ramez Galal himself – his charisma, humor, and the sheer audacity of his pranks make him a polarizing yet fascinating figure.
Memorable Moments
Over its run, “Ramez Taht el-Sifr” has given us countless memorable moments. Celebrities breaking down, getting angry, or even chasing after Ramez post-reveal are common sights. Some episodes stand out for the creativity of the pranks or the reactions they elicit. For instance, a prank involving a seemingly malfunctioning submarine door that leads to water flooding in has become a highlight, showcasing the lengths to which the show goes to convince its guests of the authenticity of the situation.
The Impact
Beyond the laughs and scares, “Ramez Taht el-Sifr” has had a tangible impact on the conversation around reality TV in the Arab world. It raises questions about the limits of entertainment and the responsibility of creators towards their participants and audience. Additionally, it has cemented Ramez Galal’s status as a household name, not just in Egypt but across the Middle East.
The Critique
Despite its popularity, the show isn’t without its detractors. The ethical implications of subjecting people to high-stress situations for entertainment have been a point of contention. Some argue that the show’s format is inherently flawed, prioritizing shock value over genuine entertainment. Others point out that the repetitive nature of the pranks could lead to diminishing returns, with audiences growing tired of the same formula.
The Future
Looking ahead, the future of “Ramez Taht el-Sifr” is as unpredictable as its pranks. The show has proven adaptable, with each season introducing new elements to keep the format fresh. However, it faces the challenge of balancing its core appeal with the need to evolve and respond to criticisms. Whether it can continue to captivate audiences while navigating the fine line between entertainment and exploitation remains to be seen.
The Takeaway
“Ramez Taht el-Sifr” is a testament to the enduring appeal of prank shows, provided they can keep reinventing themselves. It’s a blend of fear, laughter, and the unexpected, served up in a format that’s distinctly its own. Love it or hate it, the show has made its mark, sparking conversations and controversies in equal measure. As television continues to evolve, “Ramez Taht el-Sifr” stands as a reminder of the power of surprise, the allure of celebrity, and the thin line between entertainment and ethics.