Cairo International Film Festival celebrates FIPRESCI’s centenary

Today, the Egyptian Pavilion at Marché du Film, part of the 78th Cannes Film Festival (13–24 May 2025), will host a reception marking the 100th anniversary of the founding of the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI).

Just days ago, Cairo International Film Festival and FIPRESCI launched a historic agreement that will result in the publication of a special book on the federation. This book will be the outcome of a research seminar involving members of FIPRESCI and the Egyptian Film Critics Association, addressing a topic of importance to the history of cinema. The seminar will be held as part of the 46th edition of Cairo International Film Festival, scheduled for 12–21 November 2025. The event will also include the presentation of the “FIPRESCI 100 – Lifetime Achievement Award” to a prominent cinematic figure.

Commenting on the collaboration, actor Hussein Fahmy, President of Cairo International Film Festival, said:

“We at Cairo International Film Festival are proud to be part of FIPRESCI’s centenary celebrations and to strengthen our cooperation with the federation at this historic moment. We believe film criticism is a fundamental partner in the industry’s development, and our role as a festival goes beyond screening films to include supporting cultural dialogue and enhancing artistic standards. This partnership is a step forward in boosting the status of Egyptian and Arab cinema on the global map and in opening broader horizons for young talents and creatives.”

Mohamed Tarek, Artistic Director of Cairo International Film Festival, stated:

“This collaboration with FIPRESCI is a significant milestone in the journey of Cairo International Film Festival and reflects our ongoing commitment to deepening the dialogue between filmmakers and critics worldwide. We believe film criticism is one of the pillars of industry development. Through publishing the book and organizing the seminar in the upcoming edition, we aim to create a broader space for sharing experiences and documenting the history of film criticism, contributing to the growth of Egyptian and Arab cinema.”

Ahmed Shawky, President of FIPRESCI, added:

“Cairo International Film Festival has always been a strategic partner to FIPRESCI. It was the first Arab festival to host a FIPRESCI jury, which highlights the depth of the relationship between the two institutions. Moreover, many of the festival’s successive artistic directors and programmers have been members of the Egyptian Film Critics Association and FIPRESCI. This new partnership with Cairo International Film Festival is therefore a key highlight of our centenary celebrations, and we hope it paves the way for broader cooperation between critics and filmmakers across the Arab world and globally.”

Founded in 1976, Cairo International Film Festival is one of the most prestigious festivals in the Arab region and Africa. It holds an official international “Category A” status from the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF), making it the only festival in the Arab world and Africa with this accreditation.

Founded in 1925, the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI) includes national organizations of film critics from over 50 countries worldwide, in addition to individual representation from 36 countries. It aims to promote and develop film culture and protect the professional interests of critics.