Minister of Culture Farouk Hosny, presented with a prestigious tribute silver medal for his life time achievement, by Mr. Pier Paolo Saporito –Vice- President of the CICT (International Council of Cinema & TV) for the UNESCO. He also thanked H.E Ambassador Omar Massahla Secretary General /Forum Del Mediterraneo & Director of the Foreign Affairs UNESCO.

Opening Ceremony of the 31st Cairo International Film Festival was an unforgettable night for all the stars & guests who attended.

Comedian Ahmed Helmi, gave an auto-sarcastic joyful one man show before introducing Honorary President Omar Sharif, who welcomed all the guests & foreign guests to Egypt and wished them a splendid stay in Egypt and asked them to convey their pleasant experience to their friends & family back home. He said Egyptians are a friendly warm nation, they "hug" everyone with their warmth & love.

President Ezzat Abou Ouf also delivered a short speech welcoming the guests & different jury members. Young stars Boushra & Tamer Hagras hosted the opening ceremony.

Actors Hugh Hudson, Harvey Keitel, Matt Dillon & actress Aimee Mullins were all paid tributes for lifetime achievements.

"Rendition" to be screened today on it's Arab world premiere today, presented by its star Omar Metwally.

Gina El Rihany enriched the ceremony as she came on stage for her father the late Naguib El Rihany's tribute, her sincere emotions were very touching as most of the audience including Omar Sharif had tears in their eyes.

Ahmed Ramzy's tribute was handed over to Omar Sharif his best child hood friend. Nabila Ebeid was stunning with her charisma, class, and glamour on stage as she was presented with her award.

Critic Ahmed Saleh, Screenwriter Mostafa Moharam and great actor of all times Nour El Sharif was cheered for by the audiences as he was presented with his award.

The British Comedy "Death at a Funeral" was the Opening Film.