Film Production students from the Coventry University Design & Media School at The Knowledge Hub Universities recently attended the 7th edition of the Gouna Film Festival in El Gouna, Egypt. Representing Coventry University, they not only networked with prominent figures in the film industry but also promoted their programme and university’s impact on the creative arts. With a dedicated booth at the festival, they engaged with filmmakers, actors, and directors, gaining insights into both the artistic and professional facets of the industry.
Film Screenings and Hands-On Learning Experiences
One of the key highlights for the students was experiencing the Short Film Program, which featured multiple films across four showcases, presenting a range of stories from various cultural backgrounds. This was more than just a viewing opportunity; it allowed students to attend Q&A sessions with filmmakers, deepening their understanding of storytelling techniques, cinematography, and film production processes. During discussions, filmmakers shared firsthand insights into the challenges and inspirations behind their work, giving students a unique educational perspective.
The students were also excited to meet the team behind The Brink of Dreams, a notable Egyptian documentary. This encounter included discussions with the film’s Director of Photography, Dina El Zeneiny, who shared her experience in crafting the visual narrative of the film. Such interactions gave the students an inside look at documentary filmmaking in Egypt, including the technical and creative processes involved.
On the second day of the festival, the students had the opportunity to interact with influential figures in the Egyptian media and film industries. They connected with Andrew Mohsen, Head Film Programmer of the Gouna Film Festival, who discussed his role in curating a selection that bridges international and local cinema. Additionally, they engaged with social media influencer Hadi Bassiony, who offered perspectives on the growing role of digital media in the film industry. This day was filled with opportunities to exchange ideas and explore career paths within the industry, adding depth to their festival experience.
Key Discussions and Masterclasses
Students attended several impactful discussions that provided valuable insights into the industry’s evolving landscape. A notable session included a talk with prominent Egyptian actors Nelly Karim and Youssef El-Sherif, and director Karim El-Shenawy, on how TV series and dramas can be powerful tools for social change. This conversation allowed students to see how media, beyond entertainment, can reflect and influence societal issues, encouraging them to think about the potential impact of their own future work.
A particularly valuable masterclass on book-to-screen adaptations featured screenwriter Ahmed Morad, who discussed his process of transforming novels into films and television series. This session shed light on the storytelling techniques required to adapt literature for the screen, including the challenges of preserving narrative integrity while making content visually engaging. The session served as a practical guide for students interested in exploring screenwriting and adaptation in their careers.
The students also attended a talk by filmmaker Mohamed Diab, who shared his experiences directing Moon Knight, a major Marvel series. Diab’s session explored how Egyptian talent is making its mark in international cinema, and he discussed the creative and logistical aspects of working with a global studio. For students aiming to work in the industry, Diab’s insights into the collaborative processes behind such high-profile productions were particularly inspiring.
Building Industry Connections at the Festival
The TKH Coventry booth, where students spent time interacting with festival attendees, became a networking hub for engaging with professionals and spreading awareness about their program’s offerings. Esteemed visitors to the booth included actor Ahmed Magdy and director Sherif Bindary, both of whom offered encouragement and advice. These encounters allowed students to discuss their ambitions and learn directly from those with established careers in the field.
Additionally, students watched the acclaimed Egyptian documentary In the Blink of a Dream, which won an award at the Cannes Film Festival. This experience exposed them to the type of high-caliber work that is receiving international recognition and allowed them to reflect on the distinct narrative style of Egyptian cinema within a global context.
Networking and Expanding Perspectives
Participating in the Gouna Film Festival opened doors for Coventry University students to immerse themselves in a diverse selection of films, connect with industry professionals, and gain a clearer understanding of careers in film production. The festival atmosphere was notably enhanced by the esteemed presence of Eng. Ahmed El Sewedy, Chancellor of Coventry University, who was joined by Ebtissam Farid, Head of the School of Design and Media, and Marouan Omara, Film Production Course Director, in representing the university. Their leadership exemplified the university’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in the arts.
A highlight of the event was when Mr. Hussein Fahmy, President of the Cairo International Film Festival, alongside Eng. Ahmed El Sewedy, visited the university’s booth, creating a significant moment for our students. This visit not only underscored the university’s stature in the film community but also inspired students to envision their own impactful contributions to the cinematic world, knowing they are supported by such influential figures in the industry.
Through their exposure to different cinematic styles, networking with established names, and learning from insightful discussions and masterclasses, the students’ experience at the Gouna Film Festival provided them with a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities and challenges within the film industry. This experience served as both an educational journey and an inspiring introduction to the world of professional filmmaking.
Celebrating Our Talented Faculty and Alumni
Finally, we’re thrilled to congratulate Noura A. Rahman, our talented Assistant Lecturer from the Design and Media Foundation Year, for her remarkable achievement at CineGouna! Noura successfully pitched her short film project at the festival and won an esteemed prize of 750,000 EGP as a producer—a tremendous recognition of her creativity and dedication. Additionally, congratulations go to Samir T. Radwan for winning the award for Best Arab Short Film as the editor of A Promise to the Sea. These accomplishments reflect the dedication, hard work, and artistic vision that our community embodies, inspiring both current students and alumni to reach new heights in the world of film.
