Marrakech Film Festival: Moroccan artists honored
3 min read
The Marrakech International Film Festival, currently underway in Morocco, is providing a prominent platform for filmmakers to showcase their work and gauge the reactions of industry professionals. This prestigious event, celebrated for its commitment to promoting both regional and international cinema, has become a significant occasion for the global film community.
One of the key highlights at this year’s festival is the presentation of The Blue Lake, a new film by renowned Moroccan director Daoud Aoulad-Syad. Known for his previous works such as Adieu Forain (1998) and En Attendant Pasolini (2007), Aoulad-Syad took a distinctive approach with this latest film, shot in the heart of the Moroccan desert. The Blue Lake follows the journey of Youssef, a 12-year-old blind orphan who is given a camera. This gift sparks his curiosity about his surroundings, leading him on a quest to find and photograph a mythical blue lake hidden deep in the desert.
In a recent interview, Aoulad-Syad shared the inspiration behind the film, explaining how he encountered blind Swiss trekkers during a visit to the Moroccan desert, specifically near Lake Iriqui. Among the trekkers was a photographer, and Aoulad-Syad found himself intrigued by how blind individuals could navigate such a vast landscape. This encounter ignited the idea for The Blue Lake. He went on to describe how the casting process was smooth, thanks to his collaboration with experienced theater professionals, but selecting the right child actor proved to be a significant challenge. Aoulad-Syad was determined not to cast a sighted child to portray a blind character. After much deliberation, he found a suitable child actor who, though initially uncertain, blended well with the rest of the cast. According to Aoulad-Syad, the final result was a success, with the young actor bringing an authentic portrayal of blindness to the film.
The 21st edition of the festival also serves as a tribute to those who have shaped Morocco’s cultural landscape. Artistic director of the festival, Rémi Bonhomme, paid special homage to the late Naïma Elmcherqui, a legendary Moroccan actress, theater artist, and television figure who passed away on October 5, 2024, at the age of 81. Elmcherqui was a towering figure in Moroccan cinema and played a vital role in the country’s artistic development, particularly in the realms of theater and film.
Elmcherqui’s daughter, journalist Yasmine Khayat, accepted the award on behalf of her mother with both pride and deep emotion. In her speech, Khayat expressed her gratitude for the recognition of her mother’s immense contribution to Moroccan arts, saying, “Grieving takes time, such is life, but at the same time, we feel a sense of communion from the film community to honor her memory. Her commitment to theater, cinema, and Moroccan arts will live on, as will her social engagement.” Khayat also highlighted her mother’s dedication to empowering Moroccan women, youth, and children, noting that Elmcherqui worked tirelessly for the betterment of these groups and was a strong advocate for their rights. Elmcherqui was also an ambassador for UNICEF and played a pivotal role in advocating for children’s welfare.
This year’s festival highlights the richness of Moroccan cinema and the lasting impact of its artists. It serves as a celebration not only of films but also of the individuals who have contributed to the cultural fabric of the country. Elmcherqui’s legacy is a testament to the significant role that artists can play in shaping social and political discourse through their craft.
The Marrakech International Film Festival continues to run until December 7, 2024, offering a vibrant space for film enthusiasts, creators, and industry professionals to celebrate cinema’s power to inspire, challenge, and unite people across borders. With its focus on both emerging talent and established icons, the festival reinforces Morocco’s growing status as a cultural hub in the global film scene. The ongoing celebration is not just an opportunity for filmmakers to showcase their work but also a poignant reminder of the vital role that cinema plays in preserving and celebrating cultural legacies.
About The Author
