A still from the film Sideshow. Photo: Courtesy
The 42nd Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) is officially underway, and it has already been a week to remember, with screenings of some of this year’s best films.
Running from December 2-10, this year’s festival sees 16 films that have been selected to make their debut as world premieres. “The festival’s programming team is proud to debut a selection of the most anticipated films of the year to the massive audiences of film critics and cinephiles in Cairo,” says Mohamed Hefzy, CIFF President. “This comes in parallel with the various activities of Cairo Industry Days, which offers film professionals a special space to connect with the international filmmaking community.”
Out of all the exceptional films premiering at this year’s festival, here is our selection of the five best.
Curfew – Egypt
Egyptian film, Curfew (Hazr Tagawel) was directed by Amir Ramses, and sees actor Elham Shahin and Amina Khalil star alongside each other. Set in 2013, during the curfew in Egypt, the film follows a mother who has been released from prison after 20 years, trying to repair the strained relationship with her only daughter. The film, part of the International Competition program, received huge praise as it made its world premiere at CIFF on December 4 at Cairo Opera House.
On the Fence – Egypt
A still from the documentary On the Fence. Photo: Courtesy of Nesrine El Zayat
Directed by Nesrine El Zayat, this documentary explores Egyptian society’s expectations of women. El Zayat’s family is the subject of the film, which is shot entirely on her friend’s camera, and follows three girls on a journey to break down the barriers that have been established in a male-dominated society. Part of the Horizons of Arab Cinema Competition, On the Fence is having its world premiere at CIFF this Wednesday, December 9.
The Fall of Apples Trees – Morocco
A still from the film, The Fall of Apples Trees. Photo: Courtesy
The Fall of Apples Trees (L’Automne Des Pommiers) follows the story of a boy who received harsh lessons about life and love from his eccentric father. The film, directed by Mohamed Mouftaker is set in a small Moroccan village best known for its remarkable apple trees, and made its international premiere at CIFF on December 4, as part of the Horizons of Arab Cinema Competition.
German Lessons – Bulgaria
A still from the film German Lessons. Photo: Courtesy
Part of CIFF’s International Competition, the film German Lessons, directed by Pavel G. Vesnakov follows the story of anti-hero Nicola, who works as a chauffeur in Bulgaris but decides to move to Germany for a fresh start and to forget about his challenging past. German Lessons will make its world premiere at the festival on Monday, December 9.
The Girls Who Burned the Night – Saudi Arabia
Making its world premiere at CIFF, this short film is featured in the Cinema of Tomorrow program. The Girls Who Burned the Night, directed by Sara Mesfer follows teenage girl Salsabil, who suddenly decides to go for a shopping spree, which leads to an unexpected turn of events.
Sideshow – United Kingdom
A still from the film Sideshow. Photo: Courtesy
This British black-comedy film follows the story of two inept criminals who break into the home of a washed-up psychic, a decision that leads to several unexpected events. Sideshow, directed by Adam Oldroyd, will have its world premiere screening on Tuesday, December 8 as part of CIFF’s Midnight Screening program.
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