45 CIFF Inaugurates Cairo Industry Days

45th Cairo International Film Festival has officially launched the Cairo Film Industry Days (CID), running from November 15 to 20.

The opening ceremony was attended by festival president and acclaimed actor Hussein Fahmy, festival director and critic Essam Zakaria, and CID director and critic Mohamed Sayed Abdel Rahim.

During a tour of the Cairo Film Festival market, Fahmy emphasized its role as a key gathering point for filmmakers and production companies from across the Arab region and beyond. This market hosts a wide array of Egyptian production companies and notable film bodies, including Egyptian Film Authority, which plays a crucial role in supporting local film production during its final stages.

Following the opening, Fahmy highlighted the vitality of the film industry, stating that Egyptian cinema remains strong and will continue to thrive. He praised Egypt’s rich cinematic heritage and vibrant studios, stressing the importance of embracing modern technology to ensure continued progress and growth.

Fahmy also inaugurated Dolby Exhibition for the first time, offering visitors a unique experience to explore cutting-edge sound and visual technologies in cinema. This collaboration between the festival and Dolby, a leader in sound and image innovation, aims to elevate the cinematic experience to new heights.

Reflecting on his past role as festival chairman, Fahmy recalled working tirelessly for three days to promote the “Cairo Market” event, successfully gathering a wide range of film equipment and tools that quickly sold out due to high demand. He expressed joy in witnessing this initiative being revived during the 45th edition of the festival, noting a renewed spirit of collaboration among filmmakers.

Cairo Industry Days is an essential platform designed to support and promote the film industry, fostering rare opportunities for filmmakers worldwide to connect and collaborate. The event draws directors, producers, and industry experts who come together to explore emerging trends and exchange ideas and insights.

2024 Cairo Industry Days, held from November 15 to 20, features workshops, discussions, and conversations panels that address market challenges and needs, enhancing opportunities to grow new film projects. This reaffirms Egypt’s status as a regional hub for cinematic creativity.

Cairo International Film Festival is one of the oldest festivals in both Arab and African regions, and is the only festival in these areas accredited by International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF) in Brussels.