The 8th edition of Egypt’s El Gouna Film Festival (GFF) wrapped up in Hurghada on Friday, reaffirming its global humanitarian mission through the emotionally charged “Window on Palestine” program.
Running since October 16, this year’s GFF showcased around 70 films from across the globe—spanning feature narratives, documentaries, and shorts. But it was the “Window on Palestine” that resonated most deeply, offering a cinematic lifeline to voices from Gaza.
Now in its third year, the program featured seven short documentaries that delivered raw, intimate portrayals of life under siege—stories of fear, hope, and resilience crafted by young Palestinian filmmakers working in extreme conditions.
“These films are more than stories—they’re bridges,” said Rashid Masharawi, the Palestinian filmmaker behind the initiative. “They capture humanity, pain, and dreams. And by screening them, GFF proves that nobody can occupy cinema.”
The festival’s closing spotlight on Gaza underscored its founding ethos: “Cinema for Humanity.” Since its launch in 2017, GFF has championed causes including refugee rights, women’s empowerment, and sustainability. This year’s finale was a bold reminder that cinema remains a vital tool for empathy and global dialogue.
