The ninth edition of the El Gouna Film Festival kicked off on the evening of Thursday, October 15, drawing notable attendance from film stars and industry figures. The festival runs until October 23, featuring a lineup of films and cinematic events.
The opening ceremony included a moving moment as Egyptian actress Mona Zaki was honored with the Creative Achievement Award. The tribute recognized a career spanning nearly three decades, during which she took on a wide range of roles and characters that left a lasting impression on audiences.
Young performer Yasmina Al-Abd hosted the ceremony segments, which combined live appearances with filmed clips, also highlighting cinema’s ability to draw audiences into its worlds and stories.
Mona Zaki moved during tribute
The stage saw a surprise appearance by director Mohamed Shaker Khedr, who presented the Creative Achievement Award to Mona Zaki. Before handing her the award, he spoke about her career and her contributions to film and drama.
Mona Zaki could not hold back her tears during her speech. She began by thanking the El Gouna Film Festival and Mohamed Shaker Khedr.
She said she had thought for a long time about what to say on this occasion, but found that the word “thank you” best expressed her feelings.
She also spoke about the fear that accompanied her at different stages of her professional life, noting that her colleagues stood by her side during difficult moments and helped her continue her journey.
At the end of her speech, she thanked the directors, writers and crew members behind the camera, affirming that her experiences working with them played a key role in shaping her artistic path.
French film opens the festival’s screenings
The El Gouna Film Festival selected the film “Making Of” as the opening film of its ninth edition, with its official screening set for Friday, October 16.
The film is directed by Marc Fitoussi and stars Isabelle Huppert and Sandrine Kiberlain. Its story unfolds within the world of cinema, exploring ambition and the pursuit of self-fulfillment.
The plot centers on Corinne Masiero, an actress accustomed to playing secondary roles. She continues searching for an opportunity that would give her more space on screen, hoping to land the role that could change the course of her career.
“Helwa Ya Baladi” closes the opening night
The El Gouna Film Festival’s opening ceremony concluded with a dance performance. Afterward, Egyptian-American soprano and singer Shereen Ahmed made a surprise appearance before the audience.
Shereen performed the song “Helwa Ya Baladi,” marking her first vocal performance in Arabic, bringing the festival’s opening night to a close with a memorable artistic atmosphere.
