The Marrakech International Film Festival, founded in 2001 by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, returns this year for a new edition, marking over two decades of contributions to the development of cinematic art and the film industry in Morocco. As a major cultural event, the festival has become a true meeting point for cultural exchange, expression, and discovery for filmmakers and film enthusiasts. It attracts a wide national and international audience and enjoys great renown, adding a prestigious spotlight to Morocco and Marrakech, a city rich in history and heritage.
A Rich and Diverse Program
Discovering New Talents and Celebrating Cinema Icons
Each edition of the Marrakech Festival stands out for the diversity of its programming, combining the discovery of emerging talents with tributes to global cinema legends. The festival is committed to showcasing a wide range of films and celebrating works from diverse cultural horizons. Every year, it welcomes prominent figures from international cinema, invited either to receive tributes or to participate in the “In Conversation With” program, where they share their experiences and visions of cinema with the audience.
International Competition: A Platform for Emerging Filmmakers
The festival’s official selection includes an international competition for first and second feature films, dedicated to discovering new talents. This section highlights filmmakers from around the globe, offering them a unique opportunity to present their work on an international stage and engage with a diverse audience. Through this competition, the festival showcases original perspectives and bold narratives.
Diverse Sections and Screenings
The festival’s program goes beyond the official competition. Several sections enrich the cinematic experience, each offering a different approach:
- Gala Screenings: Major films presented in an elegant setting.
- Special Screenings: Premieres or exclusive showings, often with the presence of directors and actors.
- The 11th Continent: A section dedicated to bold and innovative films that push the boundaries of traditional cinema.
- Panorama of Moroccan Cinema: A selection of Moroccan films aimed at showcasing national cinema and promoting local creativity.
- Young Audience Section: Screenings tailored to young viewers, introducing them to the art of cinema.
- Open-Air Screenings at Jemaa El Fna Square: Films are shown in the heart of Marrakech, offering an immersive and accessible experience for all.
The Atlas Workshops: Supporting Moroccan and African Talent
In 2018, the festival launched the Atlas Workshops, an industry program for the development and mentoring of young Moroccan, Arab, and African filmmakers. This professional space aims to encourage the emergence of new voices in regional cinema and foster enriching exchanges with international experts. Through these workshops, emerging talents receive support at every stage of creation, from writing to editing, benefiting from practical advice and networking opportunities with established professionals.
Dates and Services to Enjoy the Festival in Comfort
This year, the Marrakech International Film Festival will take place from Friday, November 29 to Saturday, December 7, 2024. To experience this event with elegance and ease, SAHN DRIVE offers a luxury private chauffeur service, perfect for airport transfers, event transportation, or simple rides. With this service, you can fully enjoy the festival without worrying about logistics.
