Regarded as one of renowned Egyptian director Youssef Chahine’s masterpieces and set during one of the most turbulent decades in Egyptian history, Cairo Station (Bab el Hadid) (1958) is a unique exploration of sexuality, obsession and violence.

Unfolding within Cairo’s chaotic central station, the film’s narrative revolves around Qinawi, an impoverished newspaper vendor who develops an infatuation with the free-spirited Hannuma, who dodges the authorities to peddle soft drinks to passengers. While newspapers report on the gruesome murder of a local woman, Qinawi’s unreciprocated romantic interests grow into a dangerous obsession.

Although initially met with walkouts at its first screenings, Cairo Station achieved broader recognition and critical praise after screening at Cannes in 1998 on the occasion of Chahine’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

This screening is part of Film Feels: Obsession, a UK-wide cinema season supported by the National Lottery and BFI Film Audience Network.