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Investigative laboratories in North Macedonia partnered with the OCCRP network to adapt long-form journalism into dramatic feature films. "The Bench," a dark comedy rooted in 2017 corruption investigations, won a major prize by shifting focus from dry reporting to family drama and personal fracture between two brothers divided by political polarization.
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VS Film Festival, Suez — The third edition of the short film festival opened in Suez with 180 films representing 29 countries. Governor Hani Rashad, Suez University President Ashraf Hanigel, and Egyptian and Arab cinema figures attended the opening ceremony, presented by Merna Walid, which honored veteran actors Hani Ramzi, Ahmad Badeer, and Wafaa Amer.Shimaya Sief Clarifies Fertility Remark — Actress Shimaya Sief stated in televised remarks that actress Aiten Amer made the disputed statement linking weight to motherhood, clearing actresses Badria Talba and Intesar of involvement. Sief added that her relationship with Amer is now normal and they greet each other without ongoing conflict.Ilham Shaheen Remembers Mustafa Fahmi — On the second anniversary of actor Mustafa Fahmi's death, actress Ilham Shaheen posted tribute images and memories on social media, recalling their professional collaboration including the film "Yesterday's Story" and praising his character and legacy.Ahmed Helmy in Dark Drama "Hadouta" — Actor Ahmed Helmy departs from his comedy persona in the trailer for new film "Hadouta," appearing as a bearded criminal with tattered clothes and suspicious expressions. The plot involves a fugitive with memory loss who was hiding stolen goods from pursuing gangs and seeking treatment in psychiatric sessions.Naguwa Ibrahim vs. Ashraf Zaki on Fashion Criticism — Media personality Naguwa Ibrahim critiqued actresses' outfits at film festivals, drawing a formal response from Egyptian actors' union head Ashraf Zaki, who defended the artists, stating that disagreement over clothing is legitimate provided it remains objective and respectful, without transgressing into personal interference.Jeddah Visual Artists Hold Weekly Creative Workshops — Visual artists from Jeddah's Education Department and experienced practitioners began weekly workshops to exchange expertise and produce artwork. The initiative aims to develop tools, share perspectives, and create works varying in themes, techniques, and artistic schools.Coming Up:
Actress Farida Saif Al-Nasr filed a security complaint with Giza police after persistent youth gatherings outside her residence in Al-Agouza caused ongoing disturbance and alarm.