On Wednesday evening, the grand opening of the 45th Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) unfolded in a spectacular fashion, with a dazzling array
On Wednesday evening, the grand opening of the 45th Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) unfolded in a spectacular fashion, with a dazzling array of celebrities, tributes to cinema’s enduring magic, and a heartfelt nod to the Palestinian cause and Lebanon’s resilience. This event was more than just an opening ceremony; it was a blend of art, history, and solidarity.
A Rich Legacy of the #CIFF Founded in 1976 by the esteemed Egyptian writer and journalist Kamal El Mallakh, the CIFF has a rich history as the first international film festival in the Middle East. Over the decades, it has grown to become a beacon for cinematic excellence and cultural exchange in the Arab world. The festival’s commitment to celebrating world cinema while showcasing the vibrant creativity of Arab filmmakers has cemented its status as a crucial platform for both established and emerging artists.
One of the festival’s most memorable moments came in its early years when renowned international film figures like Sophia Loren, Elizabeth Taylor, and Jean-Claude Van Damme graced its red carpet, adding glamour and global attention to the event. These appearances set the stage for CIFF to become a crossroads of East and West, where diverse voices and cinematic visions meet.
A Moving Opening Performance This year’s event began with an evocative Palestinian performance, transforming the stage into a visual tribute with traditional Palestinian scarves. The atmosphere reached an emotional peak with the song “Falastini,” concluding with festival president and film icon Hussein Fahmy joining the performers on stage. In an inspiring show of solidarity, he introduced the troupe, noting their origins from Gaza, and led the audience in applause before expressing his gratitude.
Hussein Fahmy’s Speech Fahmy, whose legacy as an actor and cultural figure is intertwined with the festival, addressed the audience with heartfelt words. “We gather for this edition, which I am honored to lead, postponed from last year in solidarity with Gaza. For decades, Palestine has been Egypt’s cause, embodying justice and dignity. From here, I express my support for our brothers in Palestine and Gaza, and I extend solidarity to Lebanon, which has faced many trials over the years,” he said, reminding attendees of the festival’s role not just as a celebration of art but as a beacon of social consciousness.
A Tribute to Cinema Icons CIFF’s commitment to remembering and honoring cinematic talent was evident as the festival paid tribute to artists lost in 2024. Fahmy emphasized cinema’s power to endure through crises and immortalize those who shaped its path. He commemorated legendary figures such as Ashraf Abdel Ghafour, Nahed Farid Shawqi, Salah El-Saadani, Essam El-Shammaa, Atef Beshai, Hassan Youssef, and Mostafa Fahmy. In a nod to the legacy of Egyptian cinema, the festival showcased restored classics including Palace of Desire, Between Two Palaces, and The Sin, underscoring the importance of preserving cinematic history.
Honoring Excellence CIFF’s dedication to excellence shone through as Fahmy honored Bosnian director and producer Danis Tanović, head of the festival jury. The night continued with the Golden Pyramid for Lifetime Achievement awarded to celebrated Egyptian director Yousry Nasrallah. His speech resonated with the audience as he shared his gratitude and reflections on the evolving state of Egyptian cinema, which he proudly noted is flourishing in international festivals.
A Star-Studded Night The emotional highlight of the night was the presentation of the Faten Hamama Award for Excellence to beloved actor Ahmed Ezz. Recalling his beginnings, Ezz shared how he once stood on the festival’s red carpet unnoticed, dreaming of recognition. “Twenty-four years ago, I had to choose between continuing my job or starring in my first film. I chose cinema despite my family’s wishes. I remember waiting for an invitation to CIFF just to make my parents proud. Now, I stand here, honored with an award whose name alone is a prize,” Ezz said, dedicating the award to his mentors and iconic actor Adel Imam.
A World Premiere to Remember The opening night concluded with Fahmy inviting attendees to the world premiere of Dreams Crossing, directed by Rashid Masharawi. The film’s debut set the tone for a festival filled with diverse storytelling and cultural dialogue.
The Festival’s Offerings This year’s CIFF showcases an impressive lineup of 190 films from 72 countries. Highlights include 16 red carpet premieres, 37 world premieres, and 119 Middle Eastern and African debuts. The festival also features workshops, panel discussions, and opportunities for networking among filmmakers and cinephiles.
Memorable Moments Through the Years CIFF has had many standout moments, such as when renowned director Youssef Chahine premiered his iconic film Destiny, which earned global acclaim for its bold themes and cinematic mastery. Another unforgettable moment was Omar Sharif’s grand return to CIFF, where the legendary actor’s presence captivated audiences and reminded them of Egypt’s rich contribution to global cinema.
Looking Forward As CIFF continues to evolve, its reputation as the only Arab and African festival registered under Category A by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF) remains a testament to its global prestige. The festival’s blend of history, innovation, and social awareness ensures it will continue to be a must-attend event for lovers of cinema around the world.
#TheworldscreenCIFF24
Nabil Alani – Cairo International Film Festival 2024
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