The 31st Rabat International Author's Cinema Festival began on Saturday evening in Rabat, Morocco, with a rich program featuring over 120 films, including world premieres and exclusive screenings. The festival, which runs until November 14, is held under the theme "Creativity and Recognition." The opening ceremony honored several notable figures in cinema and music, including the late Moroccan director Mohammed Ahd Bensouda, Jordanian actress Abeer Issa, Moroccan director Saad Chraibi, and Moroccan artist Latifa Raafat.
The festival's opening ceremony also featured a preview screening of the Moroccan-Beninian film "Beyond Freedom," directed by the late Mohammed Ahd Bensouda. The event was attended by artists, filmmakers, and cinema enthusiasts. The festival's program includes specialized workshops, roundtable discussions, and tributes to exceptional careers of Moroccan and international filmmakers. According to festival head Abd al-Haqq Mantarsh, the event promotes author cinema as a means of understanding the world, embracing diversity, and fostering dialogue between cultures.
Mantarsh emphasized that defending author cinema is a defense of diverse perspectives and the right of independent films to reach audiences. He noted that cultural actors have a responsibility to expand access to author cinema, discover new voices, and promote Moroccan creativity in international cinema. The festival features a range of competitive sections, including a main competition, a short film competition, and a documentary competition.
The festival's artistic director, Malak Dahmouni, stated that this edition offers a rich selection of exclusive screenings and opportunities for audiences to engage with artists. She highlighted that the festival prioritizes cinema that resonates with audiences, sparks questions, and explores human experiences. The 31st edition pays special attention to Moroccan cinema, showcasing local talent and encouraging innovation.
The festival has assembled a high-level jury, supported by the International Federation of Film Critics, to evaluate the competing films. The jury includes notable figures such as Italian director and producer Memo Calobristi, German director Vincent Forster, Japanese producer Ken Takashi, and Moroccan filmmaker Leila Cheradi. The festival also features screenings and storytelling sessions in Arabic and French for young audiences.
The event includes a tribute to the late Mohammed Ahd Bensouda, featuring testimonials from artists and technicians who worked with him. The festival provides a platform for Moroccan and international filmmakers to showcase their work, engage with audiences, and promote creative exchange.
The festival continues until November 14, offering a diverse range of cinematic experiences and fostering a deeper understanding of author cinema.
Key points
- The festival features over 120 films, including world premieres and exclusive screenings.
- The event honors notable figures in cinema and music, including Mohammed Ahd Bensouda and Abeer Issa.
- The festival promotes Moroccan cinema and provides a platform for local talent to showcase their work.
