The 9th edition of the prestigious Aswan International Women’s Film Festival (AIWFF) is currently underway in the vibrant city of Aswan, southern Egypt, captivating audiences with a rich program that celebrates women in cinema. Running from May 2 to 7, the festival features a diverse lineup of screenings, workshops, and discussions. This year, Spain has a notable presence, including participation from acclaimed filmmaker and scholar Anna Petrus.
Spain is represented in the official short film competition by Red Snow, an evocative animated short co-directed by Aurelia Gil Junco and Susana Olmedo. The film tells a haunting yet tender story of a young girl and a vampire who live in a forest village. When a forgotten memory resurfaces, their bond is tested, changing the course of their lives. With its atmospheric visuals and emotional depth, Red Snow has already won Best Animated Short Film at the New Jersey Film Festival in October 2023, and its selection for AIWFF further confirms its growing international acclaim.
Adding to the Spanish contribution, renowned filmmaker, film critic, and cultural researcher Anna Petrus serves as a jury member for the Euro-Mediterranean Competition. Born in Menorca in 1978, Petrus has been based in Barcelona since 1996 and is known for her wide-ranging work across video art, experimental cinema, documentaries, and fiction. Her multifaceted approach to filmmaking blends visual innovation with sharp cultural commentary.
Over the years, Petrus’s films have been featured at leading international festivals including Cannes, Sitges, and Gijón. Her filmography includes critically praised titles such as Bohemia (2018), Anniversary (2013), Trumpet (2011), 345 Seconds of My Trip to New York (2010), and Oblivion in Oil (2009). Each work reflects her commitment to visual experimentation and storytelling that delves into both personal and collective experiences.
Launched in 2017, the Aswan International Women’s Film Festival is the first annual Egyptian festival dedicated to highlighting cinematic works about women and by female filmmakers. It has rapidly grown into a vital platform for showcasing women’s contributions to cinema, not only in Egypt but across the Middle East and North Africa.
Beyond the screen, AIWFF also invests in future generations through specialized workshops for young people in the region. These educational programs are designed to develop practical filmmaking skills and foster creative expression, guided by experienced professionals from the global film industry.
The participation of Anna Petrus and the screening of Red Snow underscore the festival’s commitment to embracing diverse and compelling stories from around the world. With a mission rooted in empowerment, education, and artistic excellence, AIWFF continues to build a vibrant, inclusive space for women in cinema—and for audiences eager to explore their stories.
