Previously, the film was chosen to take part in the Cairo Film Connection during the 45th edition of the Cairo International Film Festival.
The Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) has selected Ayin Hara, a project by Iraqi director Yasir Kareem, to represent the festival at the Fantastic 7 initiative during the Cannes Film Festival. Organised annually by the Cannes Marché du Film in partnership with the Sitges Film Festival, Fantastic 7 celebrates genre cinema by spotlighting seven standout fantasy, horror and science fiction projects nominated by major international festivals.
Ayin Hara had already garnered attention during the 45th edition of CIFF in 2024, where it participated in the festival’s Cairo Film Connection. The film is set against the backdrop of the marshes in southern Iraq and weaves together elements of myth and realism. It tells the story of a young woman’s defiance of deeply rooted traditions within a conservative society, exploring themes of fear, resistance and identity.
Actor Hussein Fahmy, President of the Cairo International Film Festival, expressed his pride in the festival’s participation in such a significant global initiative. He said: “We are proud to be among the select festivals given the opportunity to nominate a project for Fantastic 7. We believe Ayin Hara brings a unique cinematic voice and a distinct Arab vision that deserves international recognition and support.”
This nomination underscores CIFF’s commitment to nurturing bold and emerging filmmakers, particularly those reshaping the Arab cinematic landscape and pushing creative boundaries. The Cairo Film Connection, held as part of Cairo Industry Days, serves as a vital bridge between Arab and African filmmakers and the global industry, offering a platform for projects in development or post-production to engage with top-tier producers, distributors, and funding bodies.
CIFF will return for its 46th edition from November 12 to 21, 2025, welcoming film professionals and cinema lovers from around the world to celebrate the power and diversity of global storytelling.
