Red Sea Film Festival Honors Cinematic Legends with Timeless Classics

The Red Sea International Film Festival (RSIFF) has unveiled its Treasures strand for this year, highlighting four iconic films. Among them is Michael Mann's acclaimed crime thriller "Heat," alongside three meticulously restored Egyptian classics: "Bread and Salt," "Smile the Photo Comes Out Better," and "Shafika and Metwali."

This selection underscores RSIFF's commitment to celebrating cinematic heritage. "Heat" stands as a timeless masterpiece, while the Egyptian films showcase the rich history of Egyptian cinema and the significant contributions of female filmmakers and actors.

Antoine Khalife, Director of Arab Programme and Film Classics, expressed pride in showcasing these Egyptian masterpieces, emphasizing the pivotal role of female figures in the country's film industry. The restored films highlight the talents of iconic actresses like Naema Akef, Souad Hosny, Mona Zaki, and Leila Eloui, directed by renowned filmmakers.

The Treasures strand offers a diverse range of cinematic experiences. "Bread and Salt" delves into the lives of individuals in a traditional neighborhood, while "Heat" explores the intense rivalry between a detective and a thief. "Smile the Photo Comes Out Better" is a romantic drama set against the backdrop of Cairo, and "Shafika and Metwali" is a tragic tale of societal pressures and moral dilemmas.

The fourth edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival will take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from December 5th to 14th, 2024. The festival is supported by various sponsors, including Visit Saudi, MBC, Genesis Mohamad Yusuf AlNaghi, Film AlUla, SRMG, Chopard, SAUDIA, TikTok, NEOM, Cultural Development Fund, Nova, Mermaid, and Telfaz.