Front Row Filmed Entertainment and Cairo International Film Festival are proud to announce the premiere of the newly restored 4K version of the classic film Lion of the Desert (1981), directed by Moustapha Akkad, on November 15 and 17. This screening spotlights a film that has stood the test of time and remains profoundly relevant in today’s global context.

Cairo International Film Festival, known for showcasing socially relevant films, is the perfect venue for the revival of Lion of the Desert. The stunning 4K restoration, done by Trancas International Films at Deluxe in London and Private Island Sound in Hollywood, brings the film’s epic cinematography to life, with meticulous care taken to preserve the grandeur of its sweeping desert landscapes, the intensity of its battle scenes, and the raw emotion of its characters.

Moustapha Akkad, a Syrian-American filmmaker, was dedicated to creating cinema that bridged East and West, and his legacy continues through this restoration. His work is a powerful example of how film can both educate and inspire, serving as a cultural bridge and a call for understanding in an increasingly divided world. Malek Akkad, Moustapha Akkad’s son, spoke about the restoration: “It was a labour of love for me. The process actually involved three of my father’s films – The Message, Ar-Risalah, and Lion of the Desert – and each of these films is over three hours in length. It was a very long process that ultimately took over three years to fully complete. We had to scan every frame, and correct for any scratches or issues, then enhance the colour grading, and finally, a remixing of the sound. It was a lot of work but the final result made it all worth it.”

Gianluca Chakra, CEO of Front Row Filmed Entertainment, shared his thoughts on the significance of bringing back cinematic treasures: “Restoring films like Lion of the Desert is about preserving a part of our global cultural heritage. These films tell timeless stories about human resilience and the fight for justice. By giving them new life through restoration, we make sure that they continue to inspire future generations and remind them of the historical events that have shaped our world.”

Lion of the Desert features a star-studded cast including Anthony Quinn as Omar Mukhtar, Oliver Reed as General Graziani, and Rod Steiger as Benito Mussolini. The film’s powerful script, written by H.A.L. Craig, coupled with Akkad’s visionary direction, creates a poignant narrative that is as much about character as it is about historical events.

Lion of the Desert will have a limited release across cinemas in the Middle East and North Africa in November and December 2024