As part of the final day of the ElGouna Film Festival 2024, GIFF24 a captivating panel discussion was hosted by the CineGouna Platform, featuring the
As part of the final day of the ElGouna Film Festival 2024, GIFF24 a captivating panel discussion was hosted by the CineGouna Platform, featuring the renowned costume designer Nahed Nasrallah. Moderated by celebrated screenwriter Maryam Naoum, the session delved into Nahed’s transformative journey in the world of costume design, from her unexpected beginnings to her illustrious career shaping cinematic storytelling through costumes.
From Economics to Costumes: An Unplanned Yet Fateful Path
Nahed Nasrallah recounted her early aspirations of becoming a tour guide, having studied economics and political science. However, her destiny took a sharp turn when she worked on Youssef Chahine’s iconic film “Adieu Bonaparte”. This experience marked the beginning of her deep passion for costume design.
“Costume design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a profound connection with the drama and enhancing the narrative,” she explained. Nahed emphasized that designing costumes involves understanding the cultural and emotional nuances of characters, making it an integral part of storytelling.
Working with Legends: Challenges and Growth
Nahed described her collaboration with Youssef Chahine as both a challenge and an invaluable learning experience. His meticulous approach pushed her to refine her skills and pay attention to even the smallest details. She highlighted her work on “Bab el Shams”, a visually demanding film that required her to balance historical accuracy with creative storytelling.
Her process is rooted in in-depth research and close collaboration with directors and production teams, ensuring that costumes resonate with the narrative’s cultural and social context.
The Evolution of Generations in Costume Design
Reflecting on generational shifts in the industry, Nahed observed that today’s costume designers are influenced by a strong background in advertising, whereas her generation focused primarily on cinema. This difference, she noted, is shaping distinct creative approaches in the craft.
A Legacy of Respect and Detail
Actors, including the esteemed Salwa Mohamed Ali, praised Nahed Nasrallah’s dedication and collaborative spirit. Salwa remarked on Nahed’s remarkable ability to treat everyone on set with equal care, from lead actors to extras, ensuring every costume contributes meaningfully to the story.
“Her attention to detail elevates not just the visual appeal of a film but its entire emotional and narrative essence,” Salwa added.
About Nahed Nasrallah
Nahed Nasrallah is one of the Arab world’s most celebrated costume designers, with a career spanning decades and numerous award-winning films. From historical epics to contemporary dramas, her designs bring characters to life with unparalleled depth and authenticity. Her work includes collaborations with legendary filmmakers and a commitment to mentoring the next generation of designers.
About Gouna Film Festival
The Gouna Film Festival is one of the premier cinematic events in the Middle East and North Africa, dedicated to showcasing diverse stories from around the globe. By combining artistic excellence and cultural exchange, the festival serves as a platform for fostering creativity, connecting Arab filmmakers with international audiences, and advancing the growth of the regional film industry.
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Follow the journey of creativity and craft at #TheWorldScreen #GFF24
Sari Albeder – ElGouna Film Festival 2024, #GFF24
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