Tasteless Pepsi ad loses fizz

A new Pepsi advert on Egyptian television has sparked controversy on local and social media after featuring several late Egyptian cinema icons dancing to a song by Emirati singer Hussein al-Jasmi.

The emotionally-charged advert is based on the theme of nostalgia and pays tribute to Egyptian cinema icons, most of whom are deceased. It also features several contemporary young Egyptian actors.

However, the most controversial scene in the advert, which runs for more than two minutes, is that of late Egyptian legend Ahmed Zaki and his son Haitham Zaki waving to each other and dancing together.

There were positive reactions as some considered the advert touching for bringing the icons back to life, especially as many Egyptians grew up watching their works.

Translation: the best part of the Pepsi ad was the look Haitham Zaki gave to his father. It was so real.

On the other hand, others expressed their anger as they considered the advert disrespectful of the deceased.

Translation: I think the worst part in the Pepsi ad was Haitham Zaki's look to his father. These feelings are much bigger than paid TV ads!

Another controversial point in the advert was Hussein al-Jasmi, whose appearance was considered unwelcomed and unjustifiable by many people.

Translation: the idea of the Pepsi ad is repetitive but it was executed quite well, except for the Jasmi scene.

Translation: The UAE always sticks its nose in Egypt's business, even in the Pepsi ad! Why would Hussein al-Jasmi stick his nose in the ad?

Aside from religious rituals, Ramadan month is also known to be a season for television entertainment accompanied by massive advertisement campaigns.