Montreal Marks Youssef Chahine Centenary at African Film Festival

By Tahani Elghazaly
Published April 15, 2026

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Montreal hosted a special cultural event marking the centenary of internationally acclaimed Egyptian filmmaker Youssef Chahine, following an assignment by the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Canada to the Egyptian Cultural and Educational Relations Office in Montreal to organize the celebration as part of “Egyptian Day” activities.

The event was the result of sustained coordination between the cultural office and the organizers of the African Film Festival in Montreal, one of the most established and respected film festivals in Canada and North America. The aim was to secure the inclusion of the tribute in the festival’s 42nd edition and to shape an evening that reflected Chahine’s artistic legacy and Egypt’s cinematic standing.

Preparations also included coordination with Youssef Chahine’s company to obtain screening rights and select the most suitable film for the occasion, as well as collaboration with Melody Association in Montreal as a supporting partner to help ensure the event’s smooth organization.

The cultural office selected Cairo Station (Bab El Hadid), one of Chahine’s most iconic films, as the centerpiece of the evening. It also developed a broader visual and cultural concept for the event, including an honorary walkway highlighting major moments from the late director’s career through a curated photo display, in addition to Pharaonic-themed panels and replicas showcasing the depth and diversity of Egyptian civilization.

To encourage broader public participation, the office purchased and offered 30 complimentary tickets for the screening, allowing a wider audience to attend and strengthening Egypt’s cultural presence on the Canadian cultural scene.

The evening drew high-level attendance, led by Ambassador Nabil Mekky, Consul General of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Montreal, accompanied by his spouse, along with several Arab consuls, members of the Egyptian and Arab communities, and representatives of Canadian society. The turnout underscored the enduring appeal of Egyptian culture and its role in fostering dialogue and cultural exchange.