Celebrating Bond Between FIPRESCI & Egyptian Film Critics Association

In 2025, the International Federation of Film Critics — FIPRESCI — marks 100 years since its founding, a century that has seen cinema evolve into a global language of culture, identity, and change. As part of this global celebration, the Egyptian Film Critics Association (EFCA) proudly reflects on its longstanding and active relationship with FIPRESCI, a bond that underscores Egypt’s deep commitment to the art of film criticism.

FIPRESCI was established in 1925 by critics from France and Germany to promote and safeguard the role of criticism in the development of film culture. Over the decades, the federation has become a vital voice in world cinema, best known for its juries and awards at more than 90 international festivals each year — from Cannes and Venice to Busan and Karlovy Vary.

The relationship between Egyptian critics and FIPRESCI began to take shape in the mid-20th century, as Egypt’s film culture matured and a new generation of critics emerged. EFCA, founded in 1972, played a key role in formalizing Egypt’s place within the global network of film critics. Through its affiliation with FIPRESCI, EFCA became not just a national body representing local critics, but a bridge between Egyptian cinema and the international film world until EFCA Board Director Ahmed Shawky mounted to FIPRESCI President.

Egyptian critics have been active members of FIPRESCI juries for decades, contributing to the international dialogue around cinema and amplifying the voice of Arab and African filmmakers on the global stage. Legendary critics such as Samir Farid, Youssef Cherif Rizkallah, and Magda Wassef have represented Egypt at festivals worldwide, serving on FIPRESCI juries and influencing generations of young critics through their writing, teaching, and mentorship.

EFCA and FIPRESCI have also collaborated in workshops, seminars, and joint initiatives aimed at supporting film criticism as a profession and a cultural necessity. This collaboration has helped nurture emerging critical voices in Egypt and reinforced the importance of criticism in fostering a vibrant, accountable, and diverse cinematic landscape.

As FIPRESCI enters its second century, EFCA reaffirms its dedication to continuing this legacy — championing the role of the critic, defending the freedom of artistic expression, and deepening the dialogue between Egyptian critics and their peers around the world.

Celebrating 100 years of FIPRESCI is not just a tribute to the past — it is an invitation to imagine the future of cinema through the lens of thoughtful, committed, and independent criticism.

Writer: Film Critic, Egypt