'East of Noon' is one of eight films directed or co-directed by women among the 21 films selected this year.
The Cannes parallel section, Directors’ Fortnight, has announced the lineup for its 56th edition, scheduled to take place from May 15 to 23, 2024. Among the selection of films, Egyptian director Hala Elkoussy’s masterpiece, East of Noon, has earned a coveted spot at the Cannes Film Festival Directors’ Fortnight.
Artistic director Julien Rejl handpicked Elkoussy’s film as part of an international lineup of 21 films, shining a spotlight on global directors and their captivating narratives.
This marks the second lineup curated by Delegate General Julien Rejl, who assumed the role last year with a vision to celebrate diverse storytelling and cinematic excellence.
Established in 1969 and curated by the French Directors Guild, the Directors’ Fortnight will showcase 21 feature films and 10 short films, offering audiences a diverse array of cinematic experiences.
Among the 21 films selected for this year’s lineup, Elkoussy’s “East of Noon” is one of eight films directed or co-directed by women, underscoring the festival’s commitment to championing gender diversity in filmmaking.
East of Noon unfolds amidst the haunting ruins of an industrial complex suspended in time, serving as a poignant allegory of life in a dystopian enclave. Elkoussy’s film delves into the quest for freedom among women, weaving a narrative of hope amidst a seemingly hopeless reality. Collaborating with producer Abdelsalam Moussa, Elkoussy crafts a tale portrayed in striking black-and-white imagery, capturing the raw essence of the world it portrays.
The selected films will vie for the prestigious ‘People’s Choice’ award, with the winning film receiving a prize of EUR 7,500, further highlighting the celebration of cinematic excellence at Cannes.
