Actress Leila Elouitook part in the ninth edition of the El Gouna Film Festival, where she spoke about the state of women’s roles in cinema and the key moments that shaped her artistic career.
Leila Eloui said audience interests have shifted in recent years, noting that action and horror films have become widely popular in Egypt and around the world.
Even so, she stressed that cinema dealing with human and social issues remains capable of moving audiences. She also noted that works with genuine artistic value stay in people’s memory no matter how trends change.
Leila Eloui on women’s roles in film
Leila Eloui addressed the state of women’s roles in Egyptian and international cinema. She pointed out that leading female roles have not disappeared, but they have become less prominent compared to some other film genres.
She added that producers usually look for projects that achieve commercial success. As a result, some production companies tend to favor action films and other genres that appeal to a broad segment of young viewers.
Still, she affirmed that strong female characters continue to exist. She also noted that powerful, moving films remain appreciated by both audiences and filmmakers alike.
“He Went Out and Never Returned” changed her career
During her remarks, Leila Eloui looked back on several of her most notable films. She revealed that “He Went Out and Never Returned” marked a major turning point in her artistic journey.
She also spoke about a number of comedy and social dramas she has starred in over the years, including “Mama Hamel,” “Gawaza Toxic” and “Maksoum.”
She explained that “Maksoum” is one of the films closest to her heart, as it tells the story of three women bound by friendship despite each facing different circumstances and problems.
Leila Eloui’s films among Egyptian cinema’s greatest
Leila Eloui expressed pride in having more than one of her films included on the list of the 100 greatest films in the history of Egyptian cinema.
She said this recognition represents an important milestone in her career, especially after many years of taking on diverse roles that left a lasting impression on audiences.
A panel on women in cinema
Leila Eloui is set to take part in a panel discussion as part of the El Gouna Film Festival’s events, focusing on the image of women in cinema throughout the ages.
The panel is expected to discuss the evolution of women’s roles in Egyptian and international cinema. It will also highlight actresses who left a clear mark and influenced later generations.
The discussion will also touch on the main challenges facing the portrayal of strong and influential female characters on screen.
Concluding her remarks, Leila Elwi affirmed her deep attachment to and love of cinema. She stressed that works carrying genuine artistic and human value can endure in audiences’ memory regardless of how viewers’ tastes change.
