The Alexandria Mediterranean Film Festival, led by film critic Amir Abaza, has announced that its 41st edition will honor the memory of the late screen legend Fayrouz. The festival runs from October 2 to 6, 2025.
This tribute reflects the festival’s ongoing commitment to celebrating pioneering artists and filmmakers whose work has left an indelible mark on cinema. This year’s edition is held under the patronage of Minister of Culture Dr. Ahmed Fouad Hano and Alexandria Governor Lieutenant General Ahmed Khaled Hassan Said.
Born Perouz Artin Kalfayan (1942–2016), Fayrouz became one of the most beloved child stars in Egyptian and Arab film history. She was first spotted by musician Elias Moadab during a performance attended by King Farouk. Soon after, actor-director Anwar Wagdi introduced her to the big screen, giving her the stage name “Fayrouz.” At just seven years old, she made her debut in Yasmin (1950), beginning a remarkable journey in cinema.
Fayrouz dazzled audiences with unforgettable performances in films such as Fayrouz Hanem (1951) and Dahab (1953). She also starred alongside comedy giant Ismail Yassin in titles like Ismail Yassin Tarzan. Later, together with her father, she founded a production company that brought out films including Al-Herman and Asafeer Al-Gannah.
Although she retired from the screen at an early age, her charm and talent continued to resonate with generations of viewers. Critics and fans alike hailed her as “Egypt’s Shirley Temple,” a title that captured both her innocence and charisma. Fayrouz received several honors during her lifetime, among them a tribute at the Cairo International Film Festival in 2001.
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