The 45th Cairo International Film Festival Shines a Spotlight on Palestinian Cinema

In a gesture of solidarity and celebration, the 45th Cairo International Film Festival #CIFF24 is putting Palestinian cinema in the spotlight. The festival’s opening film, Dreams Crossed by Rashid Masharawi, leads a lineup of powerful works that capture the stories and spirit of Palestine. This special showcase, titled “Spotlight on Palestinian Cinema,” also features the compelling short film collection Films from Zero Distance, which was shot in Gaza.

Dreams Crossed: A Journey Through Palestinian Reality

Set in Bethlehem, Dreams Crossed follows 12-year-old Sami as he embarks on a day-long and night-time journey with his uncle and older cousin in search of his lost bird, believed to have returned to its homeland. The film, which traverses locations from a refugee camp in the West Bank to the Old City of Jerusalem and Haifa, captures the daily hardships, resilience, and complex relationships of Palestinians. Directed by Rashid Masharawi and starring Adel Abu Ayyash, Emelia Masso, and Ashraf Barhom, the film will make its world premiere at the festival. Festival President Hussein Fahmy described it as “an important cinematic work on the Palestinian cause” and a significant show of support for Palestinians.

Spotlight on Palestinian Cinema

This unique program features three notable films:

• The Deer’s Tooth by Saif Hamash, telling the story of a young refugee embarking on a risky journey to fulfill his younger brother’s wish of throwing a milk tooth into the sea.
• Born Famous by Louay Awad, a narrative of Kamel’s quest for personal freedom and space as he struggles to live under the constraints imposed by his parents.
• A Kilometer Square of Dreams, a documentary by Qassam Sbeih set in Jenin, sharing stories from multiple generations about the diverse forms of resistance and suffering under Israeli occupation.

Films from Zero Distance

Spearheaded by filmmaker Rashid Masharawi, this project emerged as a cinematic response to the events following October 7, 2023. Films from Zero Distance unites 22 directors from Gaza, presenting a tapestry of stories reflecting daily life, hope, and reality. The collection spans both documentary and narrative styles, offering unique perspectives and deep insight into the lives of the people of Gaza. A jury, including Egyptian producer Gabby Khoury, Syrian actress Kinda Alloush, and Egyptian critic Ahmed Shawky, will present awards for the standout films in this series.

Additionally, all Palestinian films showcased across the festival’s competitions, including the Horizons of Arab Cinema competition, will vie for the newly introduced “Palestinian Film Jury Prize.” The jury comprises Egyptian media figure Amr El-Leithy, actor Mostafa Shaaban, and Palestinian producer Layali Badr.

The 45th Cairo International Film Festival runs from November 13 to 22.

Nabil Alani – Cairo International Film Festival 2024 #CIFF24