VERDICT: Hani Khalifa's latest film 'Flight 404' is Egypt’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards.
Hani Khalifa is a renowned Egyptian filmmaker who has carved a unique niche for himself in the cinematic landscape. For his achievements, he has been awarded the Next Generation Award, jointly presented by the Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) and The Film Verdict.
Khalifa’s work is distinguished by its authentic portrayal of human emotions and relationships, combined with a subtle critique of societal norms. His films often focus on characters navigating personal and social challenges, making them relatable to a wide audience. His ability to craft multidimensional stories has earned him a devoted following and critical acclaim.
Born on July 15, 1972, he began his artistic career as an assistant director, contributing to significant Egyptian films like Sareq Al-Farah (The Joy Thief) and Qishr El-Bondoq (Nutshell) in 1995. These experiences allowed him to hone his skills in filmmaking, gaining valuable insights into storytelling and production. He rose to prominence with his debut feature film, Sahr El-Layali (Sleepless Nights, 2003). This ensemble drama, starring Mona Zaki, Sherif Mounir, Ahmed Helmy, Khaled Abou Al Naga and Hanan Turk, offered a profound exploration of relationships and the intricacies of modern Egyptian society. The film’s narrative weaves together the lives of four couples, delving into themes of love, betrayal, and personal growth. It was both a critical and commercial success, earning several awards and cementing Khalifa’s reputation as a director with a distinctive voice.
In 2015, Hani Khalifa returned to filmmaking with Sugar Rush(Sokkar Mor), a film that explored social and political themes in post-revolutionary Egypt, underscoring Khalifa’s ability to seamlessly blend social and political storytelling with humanity and finesse. Khalifa’s creativity has extended beyond cinema to television, where he directed acclaimed series such as Fouq Mostawa El Shobohat (Above Suspicion, 2016) and El Hesab Yegmaa (The Account is Settled, 2017). These works were praised for their intricate characters and compelling dramatic dynamics, earned him recognition as a versatile and impactful storyteller in both mediums.
In 2024, Khalifa made a much-celebrated return to cinema with Al-Rihla 404 (Flight 404), reuniting with actress Mona Zaki. The film tells the story of Ghada, a woman grappling with the weight of her past as she embarks on a mysterious journey that challenges her emotionally and psychologically. Khalifa’s signature style — balancing deep psychological insights with compelling visuals — shines in this film, marking a new chapter in his career. Co-starring are Mohamed Farag, Mohamed Mamdouh and Shereen Reda. The film is Egypt’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards.
