Eiad Saleh’s love for filmmaking started in the most natural way through a childhood passion for writing and stories. “I can’t really tell when exactly my passion for filmmaking began, but I remember loving writing since I was six,” he says. A turning point came at age twelve when he watched Forrest Gump for the first time. The film’s deep emotional impact made Eiad Saleh realize he wanted to be part of the film world, though he was not yet sure in what role. “I did not know whether it would be directing, writing, or cinematography I just knew I wanted to make films.”
This early spark set Eiad Saleh on a path that would lead him to become a key figure in the Egyptian film industry.
Theater The Foundation of a Creative Career
Eiad Saleh’s time at university was crucial in shaping his future. He joined the university theater group where he immersed himself in many different roles. “The theater was a big source of inspiration,” he shares. He worked as an assistant director, writer, director, and even lighting designer. Over time, he took on leadership as the team leader.
The experience gave Eiad Saleh a deep understanding of the creative process. He learned how each element from writing to lighting plays an important part in telling a story well. This foundation was invaluable when he moved on to professional work.
Before finishing university, Eiad Saleh landed his first professional role as an assistant director on an Egyptian TV series. “From my very first day on set, I knew this was exactly where I belonged,” he recalls.
A Versatile Career Across Egyptian Entertainment
Eiad Saleh’s professional journey began in 2005. Starting as an assistant director on a TV series, he soon expanded his skill set by directing documentaries and writing for TV shows. He also worked as a creative producer for documentaries and TV programs. This variety of roles gave him broad experience across the industry.
Eventually, Eiad Saleh focused more on screenwriting for films and series. Despite his many talents, he faced serious challenges. “Freelance work is unstable and the industry relies heavily on connections,” he explains. Coming from a family with no ties to entertainment made things harder. But instead of giving up, Eiad Saleh used these challenges to fuel his determination and work even harder.
Breakthrough with the Film El Harifa
One of Eiad Saleh’s proudest moments came with the success of El Harifa. This film was the first he wrote after years of dedication starting in 2008. “The story was fresh and different from typical Egyptian cinema,” he says, “and its huge box-office success surprised everyone.”
The popularity of El Harifa quickly led to a sequel less than a year later which became an even bigger hit. This success helped boost the careers of many involved including Eiad Saleh himself. It also showed how important it is for storytellers to bring original and relatable stories to audiences hungry for new content.
Passion for Romantic Comedies
Today, Eiad Saleh is working on writing a new romantic comedy. This will be his third film in the genre after Honeymoonish and Groom with Two Brides. “I love romantic comedies because they allow me to tell stories that are both fun and heartfelt,” he explains.
Eiad Saleh writes films that he enjoys watching himself. His passion for the genre shines through in his work and he aims to create stories that bring joy and laughter to viewers.
A Lesson from a Legendary Actor
A defining moment in Eiad Saleh’s career came in 2007 when he worked with one of Egypt’s greatest actors. The actor shared some advice that stayed with Eiad Saleh: “This industry requires persistence, hard work, and a lot of patience.”
He also shared a saying that resonated deeply: “Even the smallest hammer, when used repeatedly, can fell the tallest tree.” Eiad Saleh believes this sums up the secret to success persistence through steady effort.
This lesson helped Eiad Saleh face the uncertainties and challenges of the entertainment world. It reminds him that every small step is important on the way to achieving big goals.
Making Audiences Happy Is His True Goal
When asked what he hopes people remember about his work, Eiad Saleh shares a simple but powerful wish. “I always joke that I want people to say they watched one of my films or series while having lunch or dinner.”
For him, this means his work has entertained and brought joy to people’s everyday lives. “Life is so tough, and there is nothing more meaningful to me than helping make it a little lighter,” he says.
This shows how much Eiad Saleh values the emotional connection storytelling can create. For him, making people smile and feel good is the heart of filmmaking.
Advice to Young Creatives
Looking back, Eiad Saleh has advice for young people dreaming of a career in film: “Don’t rush things. Everything will come at the right time just work hard and always give your best.”
His journey proves that patience, passion, and persistence are key ingredients for success. Even with obstacles like lack of connections and unstable work, Eiad Saleh’s story shows that dedication pays off.
The Road Ahead
As Eiad Saleh continues to develop new films and projects, he remains focused on telling stories that entertain and inspire. Whether through romantic comedies or fresh original ideas, his goal is to keep bringing joy to audiences.
His journey from a young boy inspired by Forrest Gump to a successful filmmaker in Egypt is a testament to the power of following your passion and working hard, no matter where you come from.
Do follow him on Instagram
Read Next – Wedyan: Kengo Kuma’s First UAE Project Launches in Dubai
