Hurghada Youth Film Festival Honors Esteemed Producer Hisham Abdel Khaleq

Hurghada Youth Film Festival is to honor the Cinema Industry Chamber head, esteemed producer Hisham Abdel Khaleq, during the opening ceremony of the second edition, scheduled to take place between (19-24) September, 2024.

Producer Abdel Khaleq expressed his gladness at being honored at the festival which promotes communication between young talents and past generations. 

Abdel Khaleq stated, “Being honored at festivals indicates that producers, actors and filmmakers are on the right track. This honor is so special, for it coincides with being nominated as the head of the Chamber. I hope it will be a fruitful beginning of beneficial efforts for Egyptian film industry”.

The festival’s chairman, screenwriter Mohamed El-Basousy, pointed out that the reason behind honoring producer Abdel Khaleq is recognizing his vital role in the film industry.  

El-Basousy noted, “Throughout a history of 130 years, several producers have played vital roles when it comes to the development of Egyptian cinema”.

He added, “Since its first edition, the festival has been keen on honoring the most prominent producers who presented unique works in cinema. Last year, we honored veteran producer Gaby Khoury. This year, we will honor a producer who played a vital role in teaching several generations of directors and actors in all film industry fields; esteemed producer Hisham Abdel Khaleq”.

It is worth mentioning that producer Hisham Abdel Khaleq is the founder of Al Massa Production Company in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Egypt. He held multiple positions in the Chamber until he became the head of the Cinema Industry Chamber.

Abdel Khaleq produced over 23 Egyptian films, including: “About Love and Passion”, “Tito”, “the Island (1 & 2)”, “the Passage”, “the Crime”, “Al Ins W Al Nems”, “Taymour and Shafika”, “Wilad El Am”, and “Fasel Wa Na’oud”. His latest productions were “Playing With Kids” and “Esabet El Max”. Currently, he is producing “Death Squad”, starring Ahmed Ezz. 

*Hurghada Youth Film Festival*

It is organised by Fonoon Institute for Media & Culture, under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Red Sea Governorate, Air Cairo, and Sunrise Garden Beach Resort. The second edition is scheduled to take place between (19-24) September, 2024. It includes competitions for first works of young directors and writers. It also includes works that tackle youth issues, when it comes to feature and short films. There is also a competition for student films. Additionally, the festival allocates an award, named the Green Award, which is granted to films that highlight the importance of preserving the environment and climate.