Youssef Chahine

Directed by Youssef. Obviously.

Youssef Chahine (1926–2008) was born in Alexandria and became the most celebrated director in the history of Egyptian cinema, making more than 40 films over six decades.

His 1958 film Cairo Station (Bab el Hadid), in which he also starred, is regarded as a landmark of Arab cinema. Later works, including his autobiographical Alexandria films, explored his home city, history and personal memory with unusual openness.

In 1997, at the 50th Cannes Film Festival, he received a special lifetime achievement prize. He also helped launch the careers of actors including Omar Sharif.

Directed by Youssef. Obviously.