Tima Khalil: Youth with artistic background away from terrorism

CAIRO – 8 November 2017: Anyone brought up with an artistic and cultural background will automatically stray away from extremism and intolerance, Jordanian film producer and executive producer Tima Khalil stated on Wednesday during “Role of Cinema to Combat Extremism” session at the World Youth Forum.

People have advocated that cinema’s content must have a background on art and culture that promotes values and morale, since cinema and acting is one of way to educate children about terrorism and how to avoid it, Khalil added.

On the other hand, cinema is the shortest way to audiences, said the producer and writer Medhat El Adl, relaying that he supports President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi’s proposals on how the state should support filmmaking.

He further explained that media plays an important role in combating violence and extremism in any society, but he thought that cinema is more transparent than media.

Actress Bushra noted that some films facing terrorism are attacked and criticized by the media. “We need to work with clear consciences so we can produce positive results in our society.”

The session also tackled the issues pertinent to monitoring the cinema and social media. El Adl pointed out that he is against any kind of social media monitoring, since he believes that one’s conscience is enough of a monitor when it comes to social media.

In addition, Khalil expressed that she is against social media monitoring because social media enables youth to express their opinions, discover their talents and find job opportunities.
Filmmakers are trying to change the themes of cinema to address audiences through sentimentalities, since terrorism can be combated in cinema with feelings, Egyptian actor Ahmed Helmy.

“We need to address human beings’ sentiments and feelings because they are the drivers of human behavior,” noted Helmy.

He further explained that cinema helps in lifting spirit more than addressing the mind as there is a huge difference between the naturally developed mindset of the child and the mindset that later develops into extremism.

Regarding the content provided to children, Helmy said that it is very dangerous; those who decide on it should be aware of what they include and should consult others. “We aim to fix negatives and seek to find solutions.”

He added that cinema needs to highlight Egyptian and Arab characters that have made great sacrifices in fighting terrorism, referring to “Terrorist,” the film starring Adel Emam, who also contributes to fighting terrorism.

The seminar is organized as part of the culture activities of the World Youth Forum (WYF) that kicked off Sunday evening in the Red Sea resort of Sharm el Sheikh with the participation of about 3,200 youth from 110 countries.

The participants called on the State to back artistic works that discard violence, advocate tolerance and focus on the importance of work.

Cinema is one of soft powers that contributes to facing violence and harassment, they said.