El Gouna Film Festival Honors Egyptian Cinema Icon Mahmoud Hemida With Career Achievement Award In Its Upcoming 7th Edition
As part of its highly anticipated 7th edition, scheduled to run from October 24th to November 1st, 2024, El Gouna Film Festival (GFF) is thrilled to announce that the prestigious Career Achievement Award will be presented to Egyptian cinema icon Mahmoud Hemida.
Renowned for his versatility, innovation, and a storied career that spans decades, Mahmoud Hemida is celebrated for his profound contributions to Egyptian cinema. Both in front of and behind the camera, he has left an indelible mark on the industry, not only through his unforgettable performances but also through his work as a producer and supporter of film culture.
Hemida has been instrumental in shaping Egyptian cinema, whether through his production company Al-Batrik, founded in the 1990s, or by backing the cinema-focused magazine The Seventh Art, which ran for seven consecutive years, offering critical insights into the world of film.
His extensive body of work includes collaborations with some of Egypt’s most esteemed directors. Memorable films such as “Fares Al-Madina/City Knight” (1993) by Mohamed Khan, “Harb El Farawla /Strawberry Wars“ (1994) with Khairy Beshara, and “Afareet El Asfalt/Asphalt Ghosts“ (1996) by Ossama Fawzy…, have cemented his legacy as a beloved and highly respected figure both within the industry and among audiences.
Hemida’s powerful supporting roles in films such as “Al Imbrator” (1990) alongside Ahmed Zaki and “Shams El Zanaty” (1991) with Adel Emam showcased his extraordinary range and acting prowess.
Hemida continues to be among the finest artists of his generation, alternating smoothly between a wide variety of roles and leaving his unmatched artistic touch on every project he participates in. His collaborations with director Kamla Abu Zekry in Malek Wa Ketaba /Two Sides of the Coin (2005) and with director Tamer Ashry in Photocopy (2017), which had its world premiere at the inaugural edition of the El Gouna Film Festival, are prime examples of his adaptability and influence.
Celebrating this announcement, Marianne Khoury, Artistic Director, El Gouna Film Festival, remarked: “Mahmoud Hemida’s illustrious career is a cornerstone of Egyptian cultural life. His contributions go far beyond acting; they extend into the very fabric of our cinematic heritage. This award is not just a recognition of his personal achievements but a tribute to the role of art in confronting social and cultural challenges.” She added “It is our way of expressing our deep appreciation for Hemida’s artistic innovation and timeless contributions. His career serves as an inspiration for all artists, showing how one can continuously evolve while staying true to their craft.”