The 45th Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF), under the evocative theme “Humanity,” commenced on a vibrant note, serving as a testament to its legacy as the oldest film festival in the Arab region and Africa. This year, the festival makes a poignant statement of solidarity with Palestine, weaving narratives of resilience and hope through a selection of Palestinian films.
Highlighting its unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, CIFF has curated special sections dedicated to showcasing the rich tapestry of Palestinian cinema. The festival will feature 174 films spanning 73 countries, with ten making their world premieres. Among these, Palestinian stories hold a special place, celebrated through dedicated segments like “Spotlight on Palestine Cinema” and the “From Zero Distance” competition, both of which amplify voices from the Palestinian territories.
Opening the festival was the premiere of “Passing Dreams” by Rashid Masharawi. The film poignantly follows Sami, a 12-year-old journeying across the occupied West Bank in search of his lost carrier pigeon, symbolizing the unyielding spirit of Palestinian youth.
Further enriching the festival’s lineup are three Palestinian documentaries vying for the Best Arab Film and Best Palestinian Film awards. Noteworthy among them is “A State of Passion: Ghassan Abu Sittah,” a compelling documentary by Carol Mansour and Muna Khalidi. The film chronicles the heroic endeavors of British-Palestinian surgeon Ghassan Abu Sittah, who became a symbol of Palestinian perseverance during the bombardment of Gaza.
Also featured is “Gazan Tales,” which provides an intimate look into the lives of four men in Gaza, and “Holidays in Palestine” by Maxime Lindon, capturing Shadi’s emotional return to his homeland. The festival’s “From Ground Zero” programme brings to light 22 short films by Gazan filmmakers, supported by the Mashawari Fund, offering an authentic glimpse into the daily struggles and resilience of Gazan life.
Actor Hussein Fahmy, CIFF President, emphasized the festival’s pivotal role in promoting cultural dialogue and artistic innovation. In a notable meeting with international media, Fahmy highlighted Egypt’s cinematic legacy and the festival’s mission as a beacon of justice for Palestine. His sentiments were echoed by specialists like Dr. Mona Al-Khayat, a cultural historian, who praised CIFF for its courageous stand and its impact on narrative advocacy.
An exclusive highlight of the festival was the enchanting piano performance by Danis Tanović, President of the International Competition Jury. Tanović, an Oscar-winning director, brought a touch of elegance and artistry, captivating audiences with his musical prowess.
The festival also introduced the “Future Generation Awards” at the Cairo Industry Days (CID), a strategic initiative to nurture emerging filmmakers. This new category, in collaboration with The Film Verdict, aims to identify and support young talent, with winners to be announced at the Sofitel El Gezirah Hotel.
Fahmy commended the continued dynamism of Egyptian cinema and the festival’s embrace of technological advancements, featuring the inaugural Dolby Exhibition showcasing cutting-edge sound and visual technologies. Reflecting on past achievements, Fahmy expressed satisfaction with the revival of initiatives supporting filmmakers with essential equipment and tools.
As CIFF continues to be a vibrant platform for cross-cultural exchange, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of cinema to transcend borders and champion universal human values, reaffirming its role as a cultural bridge and a voice for the voiceless.