Rani Massalha launched his cinematic career by directing and co-producing the short film ELVIS OF NAZARETH, which earned the Unifrance Jury Prize at the 2012 Cannes Film Festival. He followed this success with his debut narrative feature, GIRAFFADA. Starring Saleh Bakri and Roschdy Zem, the film made its world premiere at the 38th Toronto International Film Festival, enjoyed a wide international festival run, and received a French theatrical release via Pyramide in April 2014. 

CAIRO SHADOWS marks the directorial debut of Salem Massalha, a prominent social entrepreneur, environmental innovator, and international development consultant. Born and raised in Paris to a Palestinian father and an Egyptian mother, both brothers eventually made Cairo their home. While Rani produced high-end festival hits (ONCE UPON A TIME IN GAZA, OUR LADY OF THE NILE, SIBEL) with his production company Les Films du Tambour, Salem dedicated his career to high-impact climate and development initiatives before bringing his distinct lens on community and sustainability to the screen.