After being canceled last year due to Israel’s attacks on Gaza, the Cairo International Film Festival will take place from November 13 to 22.
The Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF), which was canceled last year due to Israeli attacks on Gaza, will make a grand return from November 13 to 22, 2024. With new leadership, an expanded program, and a renewed focus on awards, this 46th edition promises to mark the beginning of a new era for the Middle East and Africa’s longest-running film festival.
New Leadership and Vision, Expanded Program and Competitions
The festival has undergone significant changes, including the appointment of Essam Zakaria as artistic director. Formerly at the helm of the Ismaili International Documentary and Short Film Festival, Zakaria brings a fresh perspective to the programming team. Hussein Fahmy, senior Egyptian actor and CIFF president since 2022, said, “We have reorganized ourselves and presented a renewed vision.”
This year’s edition will feature an ambitious selection of 194 films across 10 competition categories, including new awards for Best Documentary, Best African Film, and Best Asian Film. The Islamic Radio and Television Union will also introduce a $5,000 prize for the best film addressing the Palestinian cause.
The festival will open with the world premiere of Passing Dreams by Palestinian filmmaker Rashid Masharawi, as part of a broader focus on Palestinian cinema. Three Palestinian feature documentaries — A State of Passion: Ghassan Abu Sittah, Gazan Tales, and the From Ground Zero anthology — will compete for the Best Arab Film award.
Honoring Cinema and Its Legacy
CIFF will celebrate film history with the CIFF Classics section, showcasing restored Egyptian films from the 1960s and 70s. The festival will also honor Franz Kafka, as well as international filmmakers Sergei Parajanov and Satyajit Ray. Egyptian director Yousry Nasrallah and actor Ahmed Ezz will receive Lifetime Achievement Awards.
Cairo Industry Days and New Partnerships
The sixth edition of Cairo Industry Days will take place from November 15 to 21, offering networking opportunities, workshops, and masterclasses for industry professionals. Organizers aim to strengthen collaboration among Arab film commissions and secure key sponsorships to support the future of the festival.
Zakaria, despite the challenges posed by last year’s cancellation, remains optimistic. “The national government covers 50% of our budget, and we are working hard to secure the rest through sponsorships,” he said. “This year’s festival will be a testament to our resilience and commitment to Arab and global cinema.”
The 46th CIFF is set to reclaim its position as a symbol of cultural and cinematic excellence in the region.
