The Final Cut in Venice program, which supports post-production of films from Africa and the Arab world, recently concluded its 12th edition. Morad Mostafa’s feature film debut “Aisha Can’t Fly Away” earned the top prize. The movie tells the story of a Somali woman caring for her elderly parents in Cairo as she navigates the city’s social dynamics. Mostafa received the €5,000 La Biennale di Venezia Prize in recognition of his outstanding work.
The jury that selected the prize consisted of industry veterans Wayne Borg, Monica Ciarli, and Dennis Ruh. They praised Mostafa’s “powerful and authentic” storytelling and “distinct cinematic voice.” While a first feature film, the jury said the director showed “confident direction” and left “a strong impression” with the film’s “gritty realism and attention to detail.”
Mostafa’s film also obtained additional support from organizations like the Cinémathèque Afrique of the Institut Français, Rai Cinema, Festival International de Films de Fribourg, and Titra Films. The Final Cut in Venice program reviewed 52 submissions from 57 filmmakers and selected seven projects for recognition, including Mohamed Siam’s “My Father’s Scent” and Lemohang Jeremiah Mosese’s “Ancestral Visions of the Future.”
This year’s Venice Production Bridge (VPB) market saw growth with an 8% rise in industry delegates. They hosted 63 panels, a 15% increase from last year. The market screened 41 films and facilitated meetings between streaming platforms and producers. Meetings between book adaptation rights holders increased 14% to 640. Major companies like Amazon, Netflix, and A24 had representatives, showing the event’s success in bringing diverse industry professionals together.
As the curtains closed, VPB’s growth and programs like Final Cut in Venice reinforced the festival’s commitment to cultivating international cooperation and emerging talents worldwide.
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