As part of Cairo Industry Days, held within the activities of the Cairo International Film Festival, a panel discussion titled “A Fresh Look at Genre Cinema: The Journey from Festival Circuits to Mainstream Audiences” was held yesterday at the Open-Air Theatre of the Cairo Opera House.
The session brought together novelist and screenwriter Ahmed Mourad and film expert Moufida Fadhila, who offered an in-depth exploration of the evolution of genre films. They examined how such films can successfully transition from specialized festival platforms to wider audiences, while highlighting the stylistic and narrative shifts that have reshaped the genre in recent years.
The discussion was moderated by Simona Nobile, who guided a rich conversation on the balance between artistic and commercial demands, and the mechanisms that allow genre films to reach mainstream viewers without losing their creative identity or artistic value.
This panel formed part of a broader series of professional sessions presented by Cairo Industry Days, which aims to foster dialogue among filmmakers, deepen understanding of current industry trends, and empower emerging talent with insights that support the development of diverse storytelling formats.
About Cairo Industry Days
Cairo Industry Days serves as a dedicated platform for supporting and developing the film industry in the Arab world and Africa. It provides opportunities for funding, training, and networking with international experts. The program includes key components such as the Cairo Film Connection, the Professionals Forum, and various specialized workshops, establishing it as one of the region’s most influential industry events.
About the Cairo International Film Festival
The Cairo International Film Festival is one of the oldest and most prestigious festivals in the Arab world and Africa. Established in 1976 and accredited by the FIAPF, the festival continues to bridge artistic excellence with professional engagement, positioning itself as a vital platform for cultural exchange and for elevating the presence of Arab cinema on the global stage.
TunisianMonitorOnline Correspondent (Douha Essaafi)
