The El Gouna Film Festival (GFF) has unveiled an exciting lineup of Egyptian films for its eighth edition, highlighting a new wave of filmmakers reshaping the country’s cinematic narrative. This carefully curated selection features first and second-time directors whose works embody bold, personal, and authentic storytelling.
In the Feature Narrative Competition, two standout films are set to represent Egyptian cinema. “My Father’s Scent,” directed by Mohamed Siam, features actors Kamel El Basha and Ahmed Malek in a gripping family drama that explores the complexities of a father-son relationship over a single, pivotal night. This film, which received CineGouna funding in 2021 during its development phase, dives deep into memory, guilt, and reconciliation themes. Siam, known for his acclaimed documentaries showcased at festivals like IDFA, returns to GFF with this narrative endeavour.
Another competitor is “The Settlement,” Mohamed Rashad’s first fiction film. Drawing inspiration from true events, this film follows the journey of two brothers uncovering unsettling truths about their father’s mysterious death at work. Supported by CineGouna in 2024, “The Settlement” premiered at the Berlinale in the Perspectives section, earning praise for its emotional depth and skilful storytelling.
Two deeply personal narratives will be spotlighted in the Feature Documentary Competition. “50 Meters” by Yomna Khattab portrays her journey to reconnect with her father through filmmaking, transforming a private father-daughter story into a broader reflection on identity and belonging. This documentary, a recipient of CineGouna funding in 2021, had its world premiere at CPH:DOX in the NEXT:WAVE section. Meanwhile, “Life After Siham,” directed by Namir Abdel Messeeh, offers a tender and introspective look at grief and creativity. Building on his acclaimed works like “The Virgin, the Copts and Me” and “Tanit d’Argent,” Messeeh turns the lens inward to explore the loss of his mother and the rediscovery of his artistic passion. This film, which received support from CineGouna in 2024, debuted in the ACID section at the Cannes Film Festival.
Completing the Egyptian showcase in the Official Selection – Out of Competition is “Love Imagined” by Sarah Rozik, set to have its world premiere at GFF. This debut feature from the emerging female filmmaker weaves together the narratives of a college student, a heartbroken woman, and a grieving professor, offering a poignant exploration of love, loss, and healing.
Marianne Khoury, Artistic Director of the El Gouna Film Festival, expressed pride in announcing that four films in the festival lineup—”50 Meters,” “Life After Siham,” “My Father’s Scent,” and “The Settlement”—are alumni of the festival’s flagship industry platform, CineGouna Funding. This selection reflects the festival’s commitment to showcasing Arab and Egyptian cinema while celebrating the rich cultural narratives emerging from the region’s most promising talents.
Andrew Mohsen, Head of Programming at GFF, remarked, “This year’s selection of Egyptian films powerfully showcases the vibrant creativity and diversity of voices emerging from Egypt. We are particularly excited to present a World Premiere (“Love Imagined”), alongside works from established and emerging directors making their mark on the global stage. It’s an honour to highlight their remarkable ability to capture the essence of the human experience. Together with Sarah Gohar’s opening film “Happy Birthday,” we are elated to showcase the strength and depth of contemporary Egyptian filmmaking and the diversity that the GFF programming team aims to uphold in every edition.”
