EL GOUNA FILM FESTIVAL HONORS THE ICONIC  AND CHERISHED ACTRESS
AND SINGER JANE BIRKIN IN ITS 6TH EDITION

Cairo, Egypt – September 10, 2023 – El Gouna Film Festival announces an homage to the legendary actress and singer, Jane Birkin (December 1946-July 2023), at the upcoming 6th edition to take place October 27 to November 2, 2023. The festival's decision to celebrate her illustrious career comes in the wake of her recent passing in France at the age of 76. This tribute aligns with the festival's philosophy of celebrating  iconic talents of the past and the present.

While discussing the significance of honoring distinguished figures from the field  of cinema during a festival, Marianne Khoury, the Artistic Director of the Festival,emphasized, “In the ever-evolving landscape of cinema, it is essential to pay tribute to the trailblazers who have shaped the industry into what it is today. Jane Birkin was not only an iconic actress and singer but also a symbol of freedom and artistic innovation. Her work transcended borders and generations, making her a timeless figure in the world of art. It is our privilege to celebrate her legacy and share a part of her remarkable journey with our audience at the El Gouna Film Festival.” 

Beyond her cinematic achievements, Birkin's contribution to music was equally extraordinary. Her collaboration with the legendary Serge Gainsbourg resulted in timeless classics like Je t'aime... moi non plus, a song that challenged societal norms and became an anthem of liberation. Her distinctive voice and poetic lyrics inspired countless musicians and listeners alike, solidifying her place in music history.

The El Gouna Film Festival is honored to present a selection of films that showcase Jane Birkin's remarkable life and career. The lineup includes:

BOXES 

Jane Birkin | France | 2007 | French, English | 95 min.

In the picturesque Brittany seaside, Anna, aged 45-50, unpacks her boxes in a grand old house, seemingly alone. However, as the boxes reveal their contents, a whirlwind of ex-husbands, lovers, children, parents, and even ghosts emerge. Director Jane Birkin invites us into a captivating journey of memories and emotions. 

JANE B. FOR AGNÈS V. 

Agnès Varda | France | 1988 | French | 99 min.

Agnès Varda's moving portrait of Jane Birkin takes viewers on a multifaceted journey through various fictions and personas. Jane Birkin, known as Jane B., embraces roles such as Jane... d'Arc, Calamity Jane, Jane from Tarzan, and Jane from Gainsbourg. This captivating exploration of identity and creativity brings Birkin's artistry to the forefront.

KUNG-FU MASTER! (LE PETIT AMOUR) 

Agnès Varda | France | 1988 | French, English | 80 min.

Made concurrently with Jane B. for Agnès V (1988), this daring film by Agnès Varda and Jane Birkin (who wrote the story that provided the inspiration for the film) explores the unconventional love between a middle-aged woman, portrayed by Birkin, and a 14-year-old video game enthusiast, played by Varda's son, Mathieu Demy. 

JANE BY CHARLOTTE 

Charlotte Gainsbourg | France | 2021 | French | 90 min.

As time passes, Charlotte Gainsbourg examines her mother, Jane Birkin, in a way she never has before. Through the lens of a camera, they open up to each other, revealing their inner selves and nurturing a mother-daughter relationship that transcends the years. This heartfelt documentary is a testament to the enduring bond between two remarkable women.

As we remember Jane Birkin, we celebrate her legacy as a symbol of artistic freedom and innovation. We invite film enthusiasts and music lovers alike to join us in honoring this iconic figure at the 6th edition of the El Gouna Film Festival.

About El Gouna Film Festival

One of the leading festivals in the MENA region, GFF aims to showcase a wide variety of films for a passionate and knowledgeable audience, while fostering better communication between cultures through the art of filmmaking. Its goal is to connect filmmakers from the region with their international counterparts in the spirit of cooperation and cultural exchange. El Gouna Film Festival has gained a reputation for showcasing a diverse lineup of films from around the  world, including a strong emphasis on Arab cinema. The festival aims to promote and support the industry's growth in the region and provide a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work. The festival is also committed to the discovery of new voices and strives to be a catalyst for the development of cinema in the Arab world, especially through CineGouna Platform, an industry-oriented event created to empower Egyptian and Arab filmmakers and help them find artistic and financial support. CineGouna Platform presents the CineGouna SpringBoard and the CineGouna Bridge programs that provide opportunities for sharing and learning.