The people of the country of magic and beauty, “Mansoura”, have spent a fabulous cinematic night through 4 short films from Egypt, Jordan, and America tackling the human condition, what influences it, relations that lead to violence, and their impact on mental health, regardless of the country or society. These topics were discussed in the presence of the professional professor at the AUC and Cinema Industry Chamber advisor, Dr. Mervat Abu Auf, Public Health Advisor, Dr. Nagi Shafik, and actor and singer Osama El-Hady, at Al Hawwar Club, after the film’s screening.
The discussion, which lasted for over an hour, was moderated by MedFest’s co-founder, actor Dr. Mina El-Naggar.
Dr. Mervat Abu Auf stated, “We live in a male-dominated society; thus, equality and justice are our only way to eliminate gender biases and sexual culture. What’s more significant than equality is fairness. It is difficult to tackle these issues in reality; it is easier through films. Change is also easier through films”.
Dr. Abu Auf was impressed with Murad Abu Aisha’s “A Calling From the Desert to the Sea” and noted that the sister’s fear for her sister is so real and convincing.
Actor and singer Osama El-Hady was impressed with the girl's acting in the Jordanian film, stressing that is it is a touching film.
He said that the main theme of Noha Adel’s Egyptian film “Into Reverse” is that “no matter how weak you are, keep going; you’re on the right path”. As for interacting with the actress’ feelings, he noted, “It is important for actors to express feelings in a right way”.
El-Hady also highlighted the idea of storytelling in the screened films; it was integrated in the four films.
He said, “It made me interact with the actors and relate to their feelings, like fear and love”.
Dr. Nagi Shafik stated, “Regulations without cultural change or public thoughts transformation won’t make a positive difference. We must change the way we think about gender; women, in our culture. The ability to change it is so essential”.
Dr. Shafik stressed that a doctor always needs art and literature.
As for selecting Mansoura for holding that cinematic night, Dr. El-Naggar stated, “The problem is that we always focus on Cairo.
Indeed, it is essential to pay special attention to several governorates which require culture and cinema spread through their people.
It is part of MedFest’s plan to expand its influence outside Cairo, within the framework of cooperation with the British Embassy, through “For Her and With Her” project. MedFest adopts a project for qualifying cadres capable of organizing cultural events with respect to gender equality.
Mansoura is the second governorate in Lower Egypt, following the astonishing success of “MedFest Cinema Nights” in Upper Egypt last February and the first film night in Damanhour, Lower Egypt.
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