The 15th edition of the El Jadida Film Festival, also known as the "Days of Cinema for Dekala," is set to kick off today under the theme "Cinema and Laughter." The festival will run until Sunday, November 1, 2026, and will feature a selection of recent national and international comedic films. The event aims to bring together film enthusiasts and industry professionals for a celebration of cinema and comedy.

The festival's program includes a thought-provoking symposium titled "Laughter in Cinema: Between Purpose and Means," which will bring together critics, directors, and writers from Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia. This session aims to explore the role of humor in cinema and its impact on audiences. The festival will also screen a montage film, "15 Years in Love and Service to El Jadida," created by the festival's director, Khalid Al Khudri.

The opening ceremony will pay tribute to musicians Abd al-Qader Marjani and Abd al-Fattah Wakli. The festival will also honor Omar Lutfy at the closing ceremony on November 1, 2026, with a screening of his feature film, "Al-Batal." The event will showcase a range of films, including "Al-Hansh" by Idris Al-Marini, "Dadush" by Abd al-Wahid Majahid, and "Nawd wa Nawd" by Jawad Al-Khudi.

The festival will feature films from various countries, including Morocco, Tunisia, and France. Some of the notable films include "Lqashah min al-Sama" by Sami Masoud from Tunisia, "Un monde Merveilleux" by Giulio Callegari from France, and "La Grande vadrouille" by Gérard Oury, also from France. The Burkinabé film "LE PPS DE SOUM LE SAPEUR" by Ousmane Bamogo will be screened as the opening film.

The festival's director, Khalid Al Khudri, has curated a diverse program that showcases a range of cinematic talents. The event aims to promote cultural exchange and celebrate the art of filmmaking. With a focus on comedy, the festival is expected to bring laughter and entertainment to audiences.

The El Jadida Film Festival has become a significant event in the Moroccan film calendar, attracting film enthusiasts and industry professionals from across the region. The festival's 15th edition promises to be an exciting celebration of cinema and comedy, with a diverse program of films and engaging discussions.

The festival's organizers have put together a rich program that includes films, discussions, and tributes. The event is expected to contribute to the promotion of Moroccan and international cinema, while also providing a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work.

Key points

  • The festival features a diverse program of national and international comedic films.
  • The event includes a symposium on the role of laughter in cinema.
  • The festival will pay tribute to several artists, including musicians and filmmakers.

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SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.