Filmmaker Marouan Amara moderated the session.

"The day I decided to become a director, I was afraid of bombs. When I entered one of my friends' underground studios, I met a friend who was creating sculptures during the war in Bosnia. This is what I presented through a film that tells the stories of four artists during the war, which was watched by many people around the world due to its screening in several countries," the Bosnian filmmaker and screenwriter said, opening the masterclass held Tuesday within the CIFF activities.

Best known for his Academy Award-winning film No Man's Land (2001) in the Best Foreign Film category, Tanović's works often explore the complexities of war, identity, and human resilience.

He gained international recognition for portraying the Bosnian War's devastating impact, combining dark humour with powerful storytelling.

Tanović has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including recognition at the Cannes Film Festival.

His other notable works include An Episode in the Life of an Iron Picker (2013) and Triage (2009). Tanović is celebrated for his impactful, socially conscious films.

The director was honoured during the CIFF's opening ceremony and currently chairs the festival's Official Competition Jury.

Speaking about the creative approach in his works, Tanović said: "The most important part of working on any film is the story – what you want to tell, and what you want the audience to see. When I was working on a film in Croatia, I chose to work with a cinematographer who had never really worked on films before. When I saw his first shots, I decided to continue working with him. It’s important for a director to be knowledgeable about every aspect of filmmaking, not just directing. That’s why I learned cinematography, production, and even acting.”

Tanović also recalled a poignant memory about working with Walther van den Ende, one of the world’s most renowned cinematographers.

"Working with Walther, who was 15 years older than me, was a unique experience. I would explain to him how the scene would unfold, and I would tell him that it might be boring. I changed the way I shot the scene and went back to him several times to try to find the best way to shoot it. It was important for me to listen to him so that we could reach the best result," he said.

Moreover, Tanović spoke about his experiences growing up during the Bosnian war, sharing how that time remains close to his heart.

"I began my career during the war in Bosnia, and that’s one of the things that is closest to my heart. I also believe that today’s younger generation is more privileged than we were. During the war, we didn’t have access to electricity much of the time. In comparison, what is happening in Gaza is far worse than what we experienced. I hope that one day the children who witness such tragedies will be able to tell their stories in films. I believe that we haven’t seen much of what’s really going on,” he expressed.

This masterclass gave the audience a unique opportunity to dive deeper into the world of Tanović, whose works have influenced both audiences and filmmakers. 

The masterclass was part of Cairo Industry Days (CID), a segment of the Cairo International Film Festival that serves as a vital platform to support and promote cinema projects.

The event offers rare opportunities for filmmakers from around the world to engage with one another.

It features a distinguished participation of directors, producers, and experts in various aspects of the film industry, all coming together to explore the latest trends and exchange ideas and experiences.