Egyptian Cinema: Theorizing, Curating & Making Films | Viola Shafik

In this episode of the Kawalis podcast, esteemed film theorist and filmmaker Viola Shafik delves into the intricacies of Arab cinema, discussing its unique characteristics, historical milestones, and the role of film in navigating themes of displacement and colonialism. Through a rich conversation, Shafik shares insights from her illustrious career, offering perspectives on film archives, the pioneering era of Arab film from 1896 to the 1930s, and the impact of Studio Misr on Egyptian cinema.

0:00 Introduction: An Overview of Viola Shafik's Contributions to Filmmaking and Film Theory
01:33 Displacement: Shafik Reflects on the Theme of Displacement in Arab Cinema
04:53 Cinema's Specialness: What Distinguishes Cinema from Other Art Forms According to Shafik
07:43 Film Archives: The Importance of Preserving Film Archives in Understanding Cinema's History
10:58 Early Arab Films: An Exploration of Arab Cinema Between 1896 and the 1930s
14:46 Studio Misr: The Role of Egypt's Studio Misr in Shaping Modern Arab Cinema
22:43 Colonialism and Film: How Colonialism Has Influenced Arab Cinema
26:56 Arab Cinema’s Identity: Shafik Discusses Her Book on Arab Cinema's History and Cultural Identity
28:46 Inspirations: Influential Figures and Movements in Arab Cinema According to Shafik
31:11 Most Watched Films: Shafik Shares the Films That Have Impacted Her the Most
34:42 Appreciating Films: How to Develop a Deeper Appreciation for Films
36:50 Documentary as a Medium: The Significance of Documentary Filmmaking in Arab Cinema
40:06 "Arij: Scent of Revolution": Shafik Talks About One of Her Documentary Projects
42:19 Quick Q&A: Rapid-Fire Questions Shedding More Light on Shafik's Viewpoints
47:00 Audience Q&A on Censorship: Discussing the Impact of Censorship on Arab Cinema
50:08 Gulf Filmmakers: The Rising Influence of Filmmakers from the Gulf Region
52:44 Next 10 Years: Predictions for the Future of Arab Cinema

Viola Shafik is a renowned film theorist, filmmaker, and a pivotal figure in the study of Arab cinema. With a career spanning several decades, Shafik has deeply influenced the discourse around Arab film through her scholarly work, including her seminal book "Arab Cinema: History and Cultural Identity." As a filmmaker, she has directed notable documentaries that explore themes of identity, politics, and history, contributing to a richer understanding of the Arab world's cinematic landscape.

Theme music: Peninsular, Tarek Yamani 🔊 https://spoti.fi/47I59ns

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Mikey Muhanna 👉 https://www.instagram.com/mikey_mu/

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