The Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) has announced its financial and artistic support for Arab cinema and expanded participation opportunities for filmmakers in its 45th edition, scheduled from November 13 to 22.
This year, all Arab films participating in various competitions and categories will be eligible for the Horizons of Arab Cinema Awards. These awards, featuring cash prizes totalling US$25,000, will honour achievements in five categories: Best Film, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Female Actor, and Best Male Actor. This initiative underscores the festival’s dedication to promoting Arab filmmakers, whose global influence continues to grow and encouraging their creative contributions.
Hussein Fahmy, President of CIFF, expressed the festival’s commitment to supporting Arab cinematic talent. “We are keen on providing ample space to support all cinematic work and talents in the Arab World, whether by showcasing these films through extensive screenings or through the Cairo Cinema Forum, which has supported dozens of films in recent years,” he stated.
Fahmy highlighted the significant advancements in Arab cinema, noting the high-quality productions and technological innovations emerging in the region. He emphasised the wealth of talent among Arab scriptwriters, directors, actors and cinematographers, all deserving of recognition by CIFF organisers.
CIFF’s director, Essam Zakaria, announced that this year’s festival would spotlight Arab cinema more prominently, with additional awards, including the Horizons of Arab Cinema Awards. All Arab films participating in other festival categories, such as the International Competition and the International Critics Week Competition, will also be eligible for these awards, ensuring fair competition and evaluation. This approach increases the jury’s awards to five distinct categories.
Zakaria also pointed out the geographic diversity of Arab cinema, which will be showcased at the festival. The festival will offer audiences a rich and varied experience while encouraging broader participation from filmmakers across the Arab world.
