The eighth edition of the Aswan International Women Film Festival (AIWFF) opens Saturday night in Egypt's city of Aswan by the Nile River with a red-carpet ceremony.
The annual event, attended by dozens of Egyptian and foreign artists, filmmakers and critics, sheds light on women's causes and rights in Egypt and the Middle East region through filmmaking.
This year's festival runs until Thursday, attracting 76 selections of feature films and short films from 35 countries to rival in various competition sections.
"The AIWFF is the first festival with a specialized program of filmmaking workshops for the youth in the region, led by industry professionals, bringing the educational opportunities and skills needed to Aswan," AIWFF director Hassan Abu-Ela told Xinhua.
This year's edition has special programs for Sudanese and Palestinian films with a focus on women.
Palestinian film director Rashid Masharawi said it is important for the Arab world's patriarchal society to shed light on the issues and problems facing women through cinema and film festivals.
"The AIWFF is developing rapidly and the participation of movies, filmmakers and workers in the field is increasing notably every year, which means the festival is a real success," Egyptian film director Hala Khalil told Xinhua.
Petco, Nextracker rise; Dlocal, AMC Entertainment fall, Wednesday, 5/15/2024
Family of heiress who drowned are to sue her husband who was accused of killing her
Xi Meets National Assembly of Vietnam Chairman
Locals slam 'Britain's worst cycle lane' claiming it is still dangerous
Meghan Markle touches down in LAX in £990 sweater, a £2,900 blazer and £815 shoes after marathon 18
Regional Canine Training Center of World Customs Organization opens in Hong Kong
Royal Marines preparing to lead 'Dunkirk
What Yellen discusses in China will be a weather vane
China Focus: Record Qingming holiday box office heats up for May Day moviegoing frenzy