Key Takeaways
- Zurich Film Festival and El Gouna Film Festival have partnered.
- The collaboration will begin with the premiere of “Dolphins: My Close Encounters”.
- This partnership aims to connect filmmakers from the Middle East and Europe.
- Both festivals seek to enhance their programming and industry connections.
New Partnership Announcement
The Zurich Film Festival (ZFF) in Switzerland and the El Gouna Film Festival (GFF) in Egypt have announced a strategic partnership aimed at collaborating on programming and various initiatives. This partnership is set to launch during the upcoming 22nd edition of ZFF, scheduled from September 24 to October 4.
Upcoming Premieres
The partnership will kick off with the world premiere of the documentary “Dolphins: My Close Encounters,” which follows Swiss marine biologist Angela Ziltener and her extensive research on dolphins in the Red Sea. Following its debut in Zurich, the film will have its MENA premiere at GFF, taking place from October 15 to 26, near the location where Ziltener began her research.
Festival Backgrounds
ZFF has gained prominence in recent years, becoming a key venue for fall film releases in Switzerland and a notable stop on the international awards circuit. In 2025, it attracted 135,000 visitors, making it the second-largest film festival in the German-speaking world. The festival has also established strong connections with other film festivals, including San Sebastian.
GFF, launched in 2017 by Egyptian entrepreneurs Naguib and Samih Sawiris, has quickly become a significant event on the MENA film calendar, focusing on connecting regional and international film industries.
Statements from Festival Leaders
Christian Jungen, CEO of ZFF, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating that it would provide GFF access to films and talent while offering ZFF logistical support and insights into the film industries of Africa and the Middle East. Samih Sawiris highlighted the partnership’s potential to enhance GFF’s mission of fostering dialogue and social impact through cinema.
Andrew Mohsen, GFF’s Artistic Director, emphasized the festival’s commitment to providing a platform for filmmakers in the region, noting that this partnership would create opportunities for collaboration and skill development.
Focus on Environmental Themes
The documentary “Dolphins: My Close Encounters” serves as a symbolic connection between Zurich and El Gouna, centering on the study of dolphin behavior in the Red Sea. Directed by Barny Revill and produced by Silverback Films, the film chronicles Ziltener’s journey over 15 years, exploring the intricate relationship between humans and dolphins.
