Hend Sabry, Kahena Attia and Kaouther Ben Hania: Bright coronation at the Film Festival of the wife of Assouan
The magic of cinema once again illuminated the banks of the Nile during the recent 8th edition of the Film Film of the Woman of Assouan, which was held from April 20 to 25, 2024. This year, Tunisia was the country honored by this emblematic event. A first in the history of the festival, this special appointment testifies to the vitality and richness of Tunisian cinema, while highlighting its commitment to female themes.
This consecration stems from a close collaboration between the festival and the National Center for Cinema and Image in Tunisia, under the aegis of the Ministry of Tunisian Cultural Affairs. A fruitful partnership that has made it possible to highlight the talent and creativity of Tunisian filmmakers, in particular those who were able to explore with finesse the issues linked to women in contemporary society.
The opening of this special edition was marked by the presence of eminent personalities, including the ambassador of Tunisia to Egypt, Mohamed Ben Youssef. Accompanied by a delegation of professionalsEls of Tunisian cinema, including in particular Actress Mariam Al Ferjani, the academic and film critic Henda Haouala, as well as actress Afef Ben Mahmoud, the ambassador testified to the importance of this event for the cultural influence of Tunisia.
The opening ceremony was also an opportunity to pay tribute to two emblematic figures of Tunisian cinema: the talented editor Kahena Attia, designated president of the jury for the feature films, and the international renowned actress, Hend Sabry.
Among the Tunisian works in competition, The daughters of Olffa, directed by Kaouthar Ben Hania And carried by Hend Sabri, aroused the enthusiasm of the public. This opening film, already acclaimed on the international scene, was crowned with three prestigious prizes during the festival:
– in the Competition category of feature films:
* The Asia Dagher Prize for the best film.
* The Latefa El Zayat Prize for the best scenario.
-in the Euro-Mediterranean films competition category:
* Prix of the European Union for the best Euro-Mediterranean film dealing with questions related to women.
These distinctions testify to the excellence and the universal scope of this film, thus emphasizing the significant contribution of Tunisian cinema to the exploration of contemporary issues.
Among the other Tunisian works in competition, Backstage, Directed by Afef Ben Mahmoud and Khalil Benkirane, also captured the attention of the public. Standing Afef Ben Mahmoud and Saleh Bakri, this film had already been presented during the previous edition of the Venice Festival, thus testifying to the growing recognition of Tunisian film talent internationally.
Finally, note the participation of director Mirvet Médini Kammoun as a member of the jury for the competition of short films, thus illustrating the diversity and quality of female talents in the Tunisian film industry.
The 8th edition of the Assouan Woman Film Festival will remain engraved in memories as a vibrant tribute to Tunisian cinema and its commitment to the cause of women. A deserved recognition for a constantly evolving cinematic universe, carrying hope and creativity.
Neïla Driss
