Cairo Film Festival Unveils Restored Egyptian Classics in Stunning Before-and-After Reveal

The Cairo International Film Festival opened its 2025 edition by highlighting the restoration of Egyptian classics, showcasing striking before-and-after footage of films such as Hossam El Din Mostafa's "A Crime in a Quiet Neighborhood" and Kamal Al-Sheikh's "Sunset and Sunrise." The restored films drew audible reactions from audiences as decades-old images re-emerged with new clarity and texture. For CIFF president Hussein Fahmi, the moment marked a renewed commitment to safeguarding and reinvigorating Egypt's cinematic heritage. During the ceremony, Fahmi expressed his vision for the archival future, stating, "We're not just restoring films, we're giving them a new life. We're giving the audience a chance to experience the magic of Egyptian cinema all over again." Fahmi's goal is to make the restored films accessible to a wider audience, both domestically and internationally. He believes that by doing so, the films will not only be preserved but also appreciated by new generations of viewers. The restoration project is a significant undertaking, with over 100 Egyptian classics being restored and digitized. The process involves meticulous work, from cleaning and repairing the original prints to adding new soundtracks and subtitles. The restored films are then made available to audiences through various platforms, including film festivals, online streaming, and theatrical releases. Egypt's cinematic heritage is rich and diverse, with a history spanning over a century. The country has produced some of the most influential filmmakers in the Arab world, including Youssef Chahine and Tawfiq Saleh. However, many of these films have been lost or damaged over time, making the restoration project a crucial effort to preserve Egypt's cinematic identity. Industry experts praise the restoration project for its ambition and scope. "This is a game-changer for Egyptian cinema," said film critic and historian, Amr El-Shobaki. "By restoring these classic films, we're not only preserving our cultural heritage but also giving audiences a chance to experience the evolution of Egyptian cinema." The restoration project is ongoing, with new films being added to the collection every year. The CIFF has also established partnerships with international film archives and institutions to ensure the long-term preservation and accessibility of the restored films. As Fahmi puts it, "We're not just preserving films; we're preserving a piece of our history and culture."