The seventh edition of the El Gouna Film Festival (GFF), scheduled from October 24 to November 1, 2024, has announced the introduction of “CineGouna Shorts,” a new initiative to promote short films. This programme will take place from October 25 to 31, 2024, as part of the festival’s broader CineGouna platform.
According to organisers, CineGouna Shorts is designed to create opportunities for emerging filmmakers by offering cash awards for short narrative films in production. Egyptian filmmakers are invited to apply for these awards, with the programme offering a substantial total fund of US$46,336.46, provided by O West, a fully integrated town developed by Orascom Development. The awards will be distributed among three winners, with the first place receiving US$20,593.98, the second place US$15,445.49) and the third place US$10,296.99.
Speaking about the new initiative, Amr Mansi, Executive Director of El Gouna Film Festival, said: “The decision to dedicate a special section for short films comes within GFF’s strategy to motivate and support young filmmakers and contribute to the development of the film industry. This is an extension of GFF’s growing partnership with O West, who has been a keen partner in supporting the filmmaking scene.”
In addition to the financial support, the winning projects will premiere in the MENA region at the next GFF edition after they are completed. These films will also have the opportunity to be showcased in the festival’s official Short Film Competition and gain international exposure at other film festivals.
Tamer Dewidar, CEO of O West, Makadi Heights and Byoum, commented: “O West is keen on enriching the arts and culture scene in Egypt, where GFF came as a great opportunity for us to extend this support to one of the most powerful forms of art: Cinema. Our collaboration grows into new impactful programmes like the latest CineGouna Shorts. This is fueled by O West’s genuine interest in supporting Egyptian filmmakers and empowering the filmmaking industry in line with our vision to build a vibrant, integrated town that adds value to the society in education, art & culture, sports and entrepreneurship.”
Egyptian filmmakers can submit to CineGouna Shorts until September 7, 2024. Selected projects will be presented to a jury of industry professionals at GFF, and the winners will be announced on October 31.
Marianne Khoury, GFF’s Artistic Director, expressed her excitement for the programme, noting its potential to empower short films and bring fresh talent to the industry.
Mariam Naoum, Head of CineGouna Forum, said that what is special about CineGouna Shorts is that it empowers an often overlooked format yet holds great value for filmmakers. For the past few years, Egyptian short films have gained international acclaim, achieving some of the most reputable awards in an array of top-notch international film festivals. Short films are a filmmaker’s way of presenting themselves to the world. They are also a breath of fresh air for established filmmakers who often crave working on their passion projects, free from the constrictions of commercial filmmaking.
O West and GFF collaborate in an ongoing relationship. The festival’s activities were previously celebrated in June through the “CineGouna in O West” event, which brought the festival to Cairo. This initiative is part of O West’s commitment to supporting cultural activities and nurturing young cinematic talent.
