A Celebration of Arab Cinema in Casablanca
The cultural landscape of Morocco has been invigorated this summer with a series of events spanning from Casablanca to Agadir, including Harhoura, Larache, and Ifrane. The 7th edition of the Arab Film Festival in Casablanca concluded with a remarkable recognition of cinematic talent, where Egyptian director Yasser Shafiei's film, Complaint No. 713317, took home the Grand Prize. Additionally, Mahmoud Hemida was honored as Best Actor for his compelling performance.
Among the notable awards, the Special Jury Prize was awarded to Iraqi film Flana, directed by Zahrae Ghandour. Moroccan filmmaker Yassine Fenane received accolades for Best Screenplay for his work, The Ants, while Tunisian actress Zineb El Malki was celebrated as Best Actress for her role in I Am Looking for Ayda. The Saudi film Anti-Cinema, directed by Ali Saeed, also received a special mention. Furthermore, the documentary The Orphans' Lake by Moroccan director Salem Ballal was recognized as the Best Documentary.
The festival showcased a total of 29 works, including 12 feature films and 17 short films, underscoring the richness and diversity of Arab cinema. The closing ceremony also paid tribute to Moroccan director Nabil Ayouch, highlighting the festival's commitment to celebrating cinematic arts.
Harhoura Brings Cinema Closer to the Audience
On the coast of Harhoura, the seventh edition of the Ciné-Plage Festival concluded with the award for Wa Lana Fel Khayal Hob, directed by Sarah Rozik. The festival celebrated local talent, with Tunisian actress Najlae Ben Abdellah winning the Best Female Performance award for her role in Donya, while Mohamed Bouchait earned the Best Male Performance award for his role in A Love in Dakhla. The Directing Award went to Bribes, directed by Abdilah Zirat and Fatine Janane Mohammadi. In the Ciné-école competition, Inès Lehaire's film, Au gré du vent, was distinguished as well.
Beyond film screenings, Ciné-Plage offered workshops, master classes, and round tables focusing on contemporary issues such as artificial intelligence, the future of cinema, and human rights. Set in a beachside venue, the festival aims to bridge the gap between filmmakers and audiences, fostering community engagement and dialogue.
In Larache, the fifth edition of the Festival of the Sea, FESTIMAR, put maritime heritage at the forefront of its celebrations. Organized in conjunction with Throne Day festivities, the event kicked off with a vibrant musical and folkloric carnival, parading from Avenue Mohammed V to Place de la Libération. Traditional costumes, including women's haïks and mendils, complemented maritime attire, showcasing the cultural richness of the region.
The program included water sports, fishing, gastronomy, and various performances. Surf demonstrations, kayaking competitions, and fishing contests were held along the city's beaches, while the evening event, Fusion of the Two Shores, celebrated the cultural ties between northern Morocco and Spain.
As the festival wrapped up, local maritime cuisine was highlighted at Bab Al Bahr square, featuring traditional fish dishes, thus commemorating Larache’s connection to the sea and its urban memory.
In Ifrane, the International Festival opened its eighth edition, drawing a large crowd to Place Taj. Families, young people, Moroccan expatriates, and tourists enjoyed a night rich in popular culture, with performances by Abidat Rma transforming the space into a lively dance floor. The festival also featured artists like Nadia Laaroussi, Abdellah Daoudi, Ahouzar, Hatim Idar, Muslim, Asma Lmnawar, and Badr Ouabi, showcasing the region's musical heritage.
The festival combined entertainment with environmental consciousness under the theme of Ifrane National Park and sustainable development, hosting scientific discussions, environmental workshops, sports activities, and children’s animations, ultimately aiming to raise awareness about preserving mountainous areas.
In Agadir, the 21st edition of the Timitar Festival – Signs and Cultures concluded with a showcase of Amazigh expressions alongside Arab, African, and international music. The festival began with a performance from the Ahwach troupe from the Grand South, followed by DJ H-Brown's fusion of traditional sounds and electronic music.
Highlight performances included Hamid El Kasri and his collaborators, who introduced contemporary elements into the gnaoua repertoire. The event also featured Fatima Tachtoukt, Fatima Tabaamrant, and Lebanese singer Abeer Nehme, blending Amazigh poetry, heritage, and contemporary Arabic song, reaffirming Timitar's commitment to cultural diversity.
As reported by quid.ma.
