The Luxor African Film Festival (LAFF) has announced that its upcoming 15th edition, scheduled to run from March 30 to April 6, 2026, will be dedicated to celebrating the centenary of the legendary Egyptian filmmaker Youssef Chahine.
Under the evocative theme “Youssef Chahine: An Egyptian Story,” the festival aims to pay tribute to one of world cinema’s most rebellious and influential figures. The 15th edition will not only honor Chahine’s artistic genius but also his role as a bridge between Egyptian identity and the broader African cinematic landscape.
A Centenary Celebration
Youssef Chahine, born in January 1926, remains a towering figure in the industry, known for his dynamic storytelling and uncompromising vision. To mark the 100th anniversary of his birth, LAFF has curated several special tributes:
• Official Poster: Designed by artist Mahmoud Ismail, the festival’s official poster features Chahine moving through a visual space that blends iconic landmarks from across Africa, symbolizing the unity of the continent through his lens.
• Special Publication: In partnership with Dar Al-Shorouk, the festival will release a new edition of the book “Youssef Chahine: The Child’s Gaze… and the Rebel’s Grip” by the distinguished Lebanese critic Ibrahim Al-Aris.
• Retrospective Screenings: A selection of Chahine’s restored masterpieces is expected to be screened, offering a new generation of African filmmakers the chance to experience his work on the big screen.
Expanding the African Narrative
Beyond the Chahine tribute, the 15th edition continues its mission to de-centralize Egyptian culture and champion African voices. Led by festival president Sayed Fouad and director Azza El-Hosseiny, with acclaimed actor Mahmoud Hemida serving as Honorary President, the festival will feature its signature competitions for long narratives, documentaries, and short films.
This year also introduces a unique partnership titled “Films and Water,” which will showcase stories exploring the relationship between communities and their environments, particularly focusing on ancient hydro-technologies in arid regions.
A Hub for Continental Cinema
Organized by the Independent Shabab Foundation (ISF), LAFF has grown into one of the most vital specialized festivals in the region. By hosting the 15th edition in the historic city of Luxor, the festival provides a breathtaking backdrop for cinematic exchange between directors, critics, and enthusiasts from across the 54 nations of Africa.
As the countdown to March 30th begins, the Luxor African Film Festival stands ready to prove that while Chahine’s story began in Egypt, his legacy belongs to the entire world—and especially to the continent he so passionately represented.
