Ciné Plage: A Unique Outdoor Cinema Experience
On August 22nd, the third edition of Ciné Plage kicked off in Agadir, specifically at the vibrant Place Shems along the picturesque corniche. This annual event, organized by the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, offers free screenings of Moroccan films, aiming to create an inviting atmosphere for families and visitors alike, far removed from the traditional film festival norms. For the past three years, Ciné Plage has successfully attracted a diverse audience, making cinema accessible to all.
Expanding Horizons: From One City to Many
The second edition of Ciné Plage, held from August 15 to 30, 2025, expanded its reach significantly, showcasing films in six cities: Saïdia, Tangier, Rabat, Agadir, Essaouira, and Dakhla. This expansion demonstrated the initiative's commitment to promoting Moroccan cinema across the country, particularly during the summer months when these cities are bustling with activity. Each location was carefully chosen to ensure accessibility, making it convenient for locals and tourists to enjoy outdoor film screenings. In Essaouira, for instance, the films were screened against the backdrop of the city's unique coastal charm.
However, Ciné Plage is more than just film screenings; it also features musical performances, cultural activities, and artisan showcases, enriching the experience and transforming each evening into a lively summer outing that celebrates cinema, music, and heritage.
Returning for the second consecutive year in Agadir, the third edition of Ciné Plage attracted a large crowd on August 22nd, showcasing three Moroccan productions: El Khattaba, L’Batal, and Jouj. The emphasis on free and open-air screenings remains central to the initiative, particularly in a tourist-friendly city where residents and visitors can gather for a shared cinematic experience.
This third edition continues to expand its reach to include cities such as Tangier, Saïdia, Rabat, Essaouira, Agadir, Laâyoune, and Dakhla. The dual aims behind this initiative are to circulate more Moroccan films and to provide visibility to emerging filmmakers, thereby supporting national creative talent.
Ciné Plage does not aim to compete with traditional theaters or auteur film festivals; rather, it carves out its niche in public spaces like beaches, promenades, and parks during summer evenings. By offering free, popular, and accessible cinema, it transforms transient locations into vibrant venues for film projection. The most effective and straightforward idea behind Ciné Plage is its proactive approach: instead of waiting for audiences to come to them, they go out to find the audience where they are.
As reported by lecourrierdelatlas.com.
