With elegance rooted in legacy and a vision shaped by modernity, the 46th edition of the Cairo International Film Festival concluded its events after days filled with screenings, dialogues, masterclasses, and memorable moments that reaffirmed its status as the oldest and most prestigious film festival in the Arab world.
It was a distinguished edition led by the iconic actor Hussein Fahmy, whose steady guidance brought balance, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose to the festival.
Hussein Fahmy… Leadership with Vision and Cinematic Awareness
This year’s edition carried a remarkable imprint from the festival’s president, Hussein Fahmy, who held a special media meeting with Arab journalists invited to cover the festival.
During the discussion, he spoke with depth and passion about his ongoing project dedicated to restoring and preserving classic Egyptian films—a mission he considers essential for safeguarding Egypt’s cinematic heritage and passing it on to future generations.
The conversation opened a meaningful window into the importance of memory, culture, and the preservation of film history.
Workshops, Panels, and Thought-Provoking Dialogues
The festival offered a rich program of industry events, especially through Cairo Industry Days (CID), which hosted workshops and panel discussions featuring leading filmmakers, producers, and industry experts from across the world.
Topics ranged from screenwriting and film distribution to new technologies and the evolving role of artificial intelligence in filmmaking.
It was a truly educational platform that complemented the festival’s artistic offerings.
Honoring Khaled El Nabawy… A Moment of Artistic Pride
One of the most emotional highlights of the opening night was the honoring of Khaled El Nabawy with the Career Achievement Award.
His speech reflected a deep artistic awareness, emphasizing the responsibility of the artist toward society and the role of culture in confronting the world’s crises.
An Impressive Line-Up of International and Arab Films
The 46th edition featured a compelling selection of films from around the globe. Among the most notable titles was the Tunisian film “Round 13”, which continued to draw international attention for its psychological depth and bold storytelling.
A diverse range of Asian, European, and Arab films enriched the program, offering fresh perspectives and innovative cinematic languages.
The awards celebrated outstanding achievements in directing, acting, and screenwriting, as the festival once again showcased the power of competition and artistic excellence. Notably, Afaf Ben Mahmoud received wide critical acclaim upon winning her award during the closing ceremony.
A Moving Closing Ceremony… Cinema as a Bridge
The festival concluded with a heartfelt message from Hussein Fahmy, reaffirming cinema’s power to keep truth alive and to bring people together beyond conflict and borders.
It was a closing night that celebrated humanity, creativity, and the enduring strength of storytelling.
TunisianMonitorOnline Correspondent Douha Essaafi – CIFF
