The 23rd Marrakech International Film Festival, scheduled from November 20 to 28, will showcase a strong presence of Moroccan cinema. The festival will feature various sections with films reflecting diverse artistic experiences, highlighting the dynamism of the Moroccan film industry. A selection of foreign films shot in Morocco will also be presented. This year's edition promises to be an exciting event for film enthusiasts.
The film "Alkebulan" by Yassine Marco Marroccu is among the 14 long films competing for the festival's top prize, the Étoile d’or. This Moroccan-Hungarian-Qatari coproduction features a talented cast, including Mohamed Zouaoui and Sonia Okacha. The film received support from the Ateliers de l’Atlas, a program dedicated to nurturing talent. It will be presented in its world premiere at the festival.
The festival's competition will be judged by a panel led by French actress Marion Cotillard. The jury will evaluate the competing films and select the winner of the Étoile d’or. The festival also includes a Gala section featuring the film "La más dulce" by Laïla Marrakchi. This film has been chosen to represent Morocco in the Oscars 2027.
The Panorama section of Moroccan cinema will showcase six long films, including three world premieres. The films include "Banou !" by Mouhssine El Badaoui, "Bardi" by Tala Hadid, and "Cagoules" by Mohamed Mouftakir. These films demonstrate the diversity and richness of Moroccan cinema.
The festival also features a section dedicated to young audiences and families, with the film "Toutes sauf ma mère" by Mohcine Besri. A total of 11 Moroccan films will be presented across different sections of the festival. Additionally, three foreign films shot in Morocco will be showcased.
The presence of Moroccan cinema at the festival is a testament to the country's thriving film industry. The Ateliers de l’Atlas program has played a significant role in supporting emerging talent, with several films receiving support from the initiative. The festival provides a platform for Moroccan filmmakers to showcase their work to a global audience.
The 23rd Marrakech International Film Festival promises to be an exciting event, celebrating the best of Moroccan and international cinema. With a diverse lineup of films, the festival will offer something for everyone. The event will bring together film enthusiasts, industry professionals, and emerging talent from around the world.
Key points
- 11 Moroccan films to be featured at the 23rd Marrakech International Film Festival
- The festival to include a selection of foreign films shot in Morocco
- "Alkebulan" and "La más dulce" among the notable Moroccan films presented at the festival