The city of Rabat, Morocco, is set to host the Boujloud Film Fest, a cinematic event dedicated to horror and fantasy films, from October 30 to November 1. The festival, organized in collaboration with actors from Morocco and Belgium, aims to provide a platform for showcasing cinematic works that combine horror, fantasy, and documentary elements. The event features a diverse range of films, including long and short films, as well as discussions and meetings with filmmakers, researchers, and artists.
The festival's program includes films from various countries and cinematic experiences, such as "Reflet dans un diamant mort" directed by Hélène Cattet and Bruno Forzani, "Black Zombie" by Maya Anik BeDoard, and "Mārama" by Taratau Stabbard. The event also features short films, including "Qu'importe si les bêtes meurent" by Moroccan director Sofia Aloui, and works by Hana Kazem, Karim El Swaiss, and others. The films will be screened at the Higher Institute of Audiovisual Professions and Cinema (ISMAC), Cinema "7ème Art", and the "Tatmin" space.
The festival's opening ceremony takes place on October 30 at ISMAC, featuring a screening of short films and a meeting with director Karim El Swaiss and artist Nangi Motteri, moderated by Mustafa Abtan, also known as "Bandini". The festival's program continues on Saturday with a documentary screening of "Black Zombie", followed by a discussion on the representation of monsters in culture and society. On Sunday, the program focuses on short films and a discussion with the audience at the "Tatmin" space.
The Boujloud Film Fest is part of a cultural project launched by Mustafa Abtan, Kristel Schoulvaere, and Sami El Ghaidi, aiming to create a platform for showcasing horror, fantasy, and documentary films, and fostering dialogue and exchange between artists, students, and the public. The festival's name is inspired by the character of "Boujloud", a figure from Moroccan folklore associated with wearing animal hides and masks.
The event is free and open to the public, offering an opportunity for audiences to discover cinematic works that are not often screened in Moroccan theaters. The festival's program reflects the diversity of horror and fantasy cinema, showcasing works from different countries and filmmakers. The event also aims to promote cultural exchange and cooperation between Rabat and Brussels.
The Boujloud Film Fest is seen as a first step towards organizing a larger festival in 2027, focusing on training, cultural mediation, and expanding the reach of cinematic events to young audiences. The festival's organizers aim to create a sustainable platform for horror and fantasy cinema in Morocco, promoting the development of these genres in the country.
The festival's program concludes with a screening of the film "Sicko" at Cinema "7ème Art". The event offers a unique opportunity for audiences to engage with filmmakers, researchers, and artists, and to explore the diversity of horror and fantasy cinema. The Boujloud Film Fest is a significant cultural event in Rabat, showcasing the city's commitment to promoting artistic expression and cultural exchange.
Key points
- The Boujloud Film Fest features a diverse range of horror and fantasy films from Morocco and abroad.
- The festival includes discussions and meetings with filmmakers, researchers, and artists.
- The event aims to promote cultural exchange and cooperation between Rabat and Brussels.
