In a remarkable move reflecting the leading position of Cairo International Film Festival, the Egyptian Pavilion at Marché du Film during the 78th Cannes Film Festival (May 13–24, 2025) will witness a historic collaboration between Cairo International Film Festival and the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI) as part of the celebrations marking 100 years since the federation’s establishment.
The two parties have agreed to publish a special book about FIPRESCI, stemming from a research seminar involving critics from the federation and members of the Egyptian Film Critics Association, focusing on a topic of significance to cinema history. Additionally, FIPRESCI, in collaboration with Cairo International Film Festival, will present the « FIPRESCI 100 – Lifetime Achievement Award » to a prominent cinematic figure during the 46th edition of the festival, scheduled for November 12–21, 2025.
On this occasion, Hussein Fahmy, President of Cairo International Film Festival, stated:
“We at Cairo International Film Festival are proud to be part of the centennial celebrations of the International Federation of Film Critics and to deepen our collaboration with FIPRESCI at this historic moment. We believe that film criticism is a key partner in the development of the industry. Our role as a festival goes beyond showcasing films to include supporting cultural dialogue and elevating artistic standards. This partnership represents a new step toward enhancing the position of Egyptian and Arab cinema on the global map and opening broader horizons for young talents and creators.”
Mohamed Tarek, Artistic Director of Cairo International Film Festival, added:
“This collaboration with the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI) is a qualitative step in the journey of Cairo International Film Festival and reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering dialogue between filmmakers and critics on a global level. We believe that film criticism is one of the pillars of industry development. Through the publication of the book and the organization of the research seminar in the upcoming edition, we are providing greater space for the exchange of expertise and the documentation of the history of film criticism, contributing to the advancement of the Egyptian and Arab cinematic scene.”
Ahmed Shawky, President of FIPRESCI, also commented:
“Cairo International Film Festival has always been a strategic partner of the International Federation of Film Critics. Being the first Arab festival to host a FIPRESCI jury reflects the depth of the relationship between the two institutions. Moreover, most of Cairo’s artistic directors and programmers over its successive editions have been members of the Egyptian Film Critics Association and FIPRESCI. This new partnership with Cairo International Film Festival is a major milestone in our celebrations of FIPRESCI’s centennial, and we hope it opens wider horizons for collaboration between critics and filmmakers in the Arab world and beyond.”
It is worth noting that Cairo International Film Festival, established in 1976, is one of the most prestigious festivals in the Arab region and Africa. It holds an official international classification as a « Category A » festival by 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) comprises national organizations of film critics from over 50 countries worldwide, along with 36 individually represented countries. Its mission is to promote and develop film culture and protect the professional interests of critics.
