In response to the rapidly deteriorating situation in the region, the highly anticipated sixth edition of Egypt's El Gouna Film Festival, originally slated to commence this Friday, has been rescheduled by two weeks. The decision comes as a result of the alarming surge in violence between Israel and Hamas, resulting in a significant civilian death toll.
In an official statement, festival organizers expressed their deep concern for the loss of innocent lives and announced the new dates for the event - October 27th to November 2nd, 2023. The festival management affirmed their unwavering dedication to the central theme of 'Cinema for Humanity,' a message that promotes unity and empathy.
This decision follows recent hostilities, initiated by the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which prompted a retaliatory response from Israel. The conflict has tragically claimed the lives of over 1,800 individuals on both sides, as of Tuesday, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
"We firmly believe in the profound power of cinema to unite people, as we also understand the weight of the current situation and the importance of collective reflection. It is crucial that we provide space for healing, understanding, and solidarity to prevail," stated the El Gouna Film Festival team, which had taken a hiatus in 2022.
The festival's commitment to spotlighting the impactful work of young talents and emphasizing the transformative nature of cinema remains resolute. Organizers expressed gratitude for the understanding of their audience during these challenging times.
