The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

The Cairo International Film Festival features competitions showcasing the best and brightest entries from around the world. This year is no different; here are synopses for a few entries in the short film competition. Screenings will take place at the Opera House, Zamalek Cinema, and the Tahrir Cultural Centre at AUC.

Perishable Idol

As the blue horizon blends with the vast sea, local archaeologist Hassan Al Failakawy returns to the deserted island of Failaka, off Kuwait’s coast. Amid the silence and the remnants left behind by the Gulf War, Hassan faces deep questions about returning home, recovery, and belonging. Created by Majid El Rimaihi.

Death of the Fish

A film by Eva Lusbaronian revolving around grief. Trauma often resurfaces in the most ordinary moments. The simple death of a fish stirs a lifetime of buried grief. The mother’s immense sorrow takes on mirrored forms, pulling her toward the depths of a pond where her despair solidifies.

Meanwhile, the daughter turns to dance as her only language, since words no longer suffice. A heron, both a real and symbolic presence, guides her toward acceptance of her helplessness and understanding of her place in the world.

WassupKaylee

A French-American film by Pepi Ginsberg follows Seventeen-year-old Kaylee Hord, a social media prankster, who joins a trending TikTok content house, hoping to carve out her space while struggling to cover rent and keep up with the others.

When an intense new friendship opens the door to potential viral fame, Kaylee soon discovers just how far she’s willing to go for recognition.

Blue Heart

Made by Haitian filmmaker Samuel Suffren, COEUR tells the story of Marianne and Pétion, a Haitian couple waiting anxiously for a phone call from their son in the United States.

Filmed in Kreyól with English subtitles, the 15-minute short captures the fading hopes of parents as the American dream drifts further away. The film concludes a trilogy that includes Agwe (2022) and Dreams Like Paper Boats (2024).

The Bird’s Placebo

After losing his legs while attempting to cross the Mediterranean, Yahya, a young man from a struggling Tunisian neighbourhood, experiences a surreal encounter with a mysterious bearded stranger and is reborn as a bird. It’s directed by Rami Jarboui.