Khoury directed her first documentary film, 'The Times of Laura', in 1999 followed by 'Women Who Loved Cinema' in 2002, both of which won critical recognition
El Gouna Film Festival has appointed Egyptian director and producer Marianne Khoury as its new Artistic Director to strengthen its commitment to supporting Egyptian and Arab filmmakers.
Speaking about her new role, Khoury said: “Since its inception, El Gouna Film Festival has been instrumental in bringing significant projects to fruition by providing invaluable support. With my appointment as Artistic Director, I aim to expand the reach of sponsorship, support, and training workshops to discover and nurture young talents across all facets of filmmaking.”
Amr Mansi, Executive director of El Gouna Festival, added: “The appointment of Khoury as artistic director of El Gouna Film Festival is one of the most important decisions taken by the festival management, stressing that I am sure that she will represent a strong addition to the festival by being in this position, being one of the most important filmmakers in the region, and has a lot of experience in the field”.
Festival director Intishal Al Timimi stated: “The bond between the festival and the esteemed producer Marianne Khoury is not a fleeting one; it is a robust relationship that has flourished over the past five editions of the festival in various capacities. From serving as a member of the documentary film jury to her role as a producer and frequent contributions to the CineGouna platform, Khoury’s involvement has been instrumental.
“We are truly privileged to welcome Marianne Khoury as our new Artistic Director. Her remarkable contributions to the film industry and her dedication to showcasing diverse voices make her an ideal leader for the El Gouna Film Festival. With her vision and expertise, we are confident that the festival will continue to flourish as a hub for artistic innovation and cinematic brilliance.”
Taking on themes of identity, memory, and marginalization, Khoury produces and directs films that engage the audience on a personal level. She produced and co-produced around 30 feature films and documentaries that won awards in regional and international festivals. In 2004 and 2014, she introduced the first Panorama of the European Film in Cairo and Zawya. Her latest initiative, The Dahshur Workshops, is dedicated to the mentoring and development of films made by emerging Egyptian and Arab talent. Marianne’s latest film Let’s Talk was selected to take part in the 32nd edition of the IDFA International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam, and also won the Audience Award at the 2019 Cairo International film festival.
