
        "We want to support Arab filmmakers in the best way we can"
- From a squash tournament to a film festival: how the founding idea took shape.
- Supporting Arab filmmakers through screenings, learning opportunities and connections with producers.
- Why sustainable funding matters to the festival’s international ambitions.
- Building an audience and attracting international talent without paying stars to attend.
- Balancing red carpets and parties with a stronger cultural and industry focus.
- Keeping tickets affordable and preserving El Gouna’s welcoming atmosphere.
      

When El Gouna Film Festival launched in 2017, the idea of a film festival in a purpose-built Red Sea resort town was still unproven. Nine editions later, co-founder Amr Mansi proudly looks at the festival’s growing industry section, an unprecedented number of Arab films, and a growing number of prominent guests. In between appointments, the former top athlete, entrepreneur and CEO found some time to talk with Lidanoir about what inspired the festival, the Egyptian audience’s unique connection to cinema, and what international stars he would most love to see at El Gouna.

Interview with GFF co-founder Amr Mansi

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