Egyptian director Morad Mostafa is set to make a significant impact at the 78th Cannes film festival with his debut feature-length film, ‘Aisha Can’t fly Away’, a gripping social thriller that premiered in the Un Certain Regard section. This milestone marks the first time in nearly a decade that an Egyptian film has been featured in this competitive sidebar, a testament to Mostafa’s dedication to showcasing the untold stories of Egypt’s overlooked communities.
Unveiling the Story of Aisha
- Set against the backdrop of economic hardship and systemic marginalisation, the film follows Aisha, a Sudanese refugee navigating a precarious life in Cairo’s Ain Shams district.
- Aisha’s search for agency and safety becomes entangled in a labyrinth of threats, mistrust, and survival, as she faces numerous challenges in her quest for a better life.
A Talent Showcase
- ’Aisha Can’t fly away’ marks Ziad Zaza’s third acting project following ‘60 Egyptian Pounds’ and the crime-comedy series ‘Prestige’, both directed by Amr Salama.
- The film features Emad Ghoniem and was shot by award-winning cinematographer Mostafa El Kashef, known for his work on ‘Feathers’ and ‘Soula’.
A Director’s Vision
| Director Morad Mostafa’s filmmaking style is known for its emotionally grounded and socially conscious approach. |
| His previous short films, such as ‘Henet Ward’ and ‘I Promise You Paradise’, have screened at prestigious festivals like Clermont-Ferrand, Palm Springs, and the Cannes Semaine de la Critique. |
| Mostafa’s latest feature is a significant step forward in his career, showcasing his ability to balance emotional depth with social commentary. |
A Milestone in Egyptian Cinema
- ‘Aisha Can’t Fly Away’ is the first Egyptian film since ‘Ali, the Goat and Ibrahim’ (2016) to be included in the Un Certain Regard programme.
- This achievement marks a significant milestone in Egyptian cinema, highlighting the growing talent and diversity of Egyptian filmmakers.
Preparing for the Festival
“’Aisha Can’t Fly Away’ is a film about the struggle for survival and the resilience of the human spirit. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to share it with the world at the cannes film Festival.”
— Morad Mostafa, Director of ‘Aisha Can’t Fly Away’
Key Takeaways
- **Emotional Depth**:
- Aisha’s journey is a powerful exploration of the human condition, tackling themes of marginalisation, survival, and the quest for agency.
- **Social Commentary**:
- Mostafa’s filmmaking style offers a thought-provoking critique of the systemic issues affecting Egypt’s overlooked communities.
- **Talent Showcase**:
- ‘Aisha Can’t Fly Away’ boasts an impressive cast, including Ziad Zaza, Emad Ghoniem, and award-winning cinematographer Mostafa El Kashef.
Conclusion
The 78th Cannes Film Festival is shaping up to be an exciting event, with ‘Aisha Can’t Fly Away’ poised to make a significant impact. With its powerful storytelling, socially conscious themes, and talented cast, this film is sure to resonate with audiences and leave a lasting impression on the film festival circuit. As Morad Mostafa continues to push the boundaries of Egyptian cinema, we can expect more exciting projects to emerge from this talented director in the future.