The Evolution of Morocco's Cinematic Landscape
For decades, Morocco has been etched in the minds of global cinema as a breathtaking natural backdrop, a role it has played as a silent protagonist in major Hollywood productions. From the expansive deserts of Ouarzazate to the ancient alleys of Tangier, the Kingdom has merely served as a captivating canvas for international films. However, this narrative is undergoing a significant transformation. Morocco is no longer content with being a mere logistical host; it is actively seeking to establish a comprehensive and independent cinematic industry. This ambition involves the integration of modern legislative frameworks and advanced infrastructure, while simultaneously balancing its achievements with the challenges faced by local cinema and audiences.
According to Hussein Hanine, the president of the Moroccan Film Producers Association, "There is no doubt that Morocco has successfully secured its position as an attractive international destination for foreign film productions over the past years. This success can be attributed to the diversity of its natural landscapes, the efficiency of its technicians, and its accumulated experience in production execution, along with the financial incentives and logistical services offered." However, he emphasizes that the shift from being a host country for foreign productions to possessing an independent national cinematic industry should not solely be measured by the number of films shot in Morocco. Instead, it hinges on the country’s ability to regularly produce Moroccan works, hold the rights to these works, market them both domestically and internationally, and ensure the sustainability of production companies beyond the confines of single-project ventures.
Legal Reforms and Infrastructure Development
The introduction of new legal frameworks has been pivotal in reshaping this vision, culminating in the enactment of Law No. 18.23 concerning the film industry and the reorganization of the Moroccan Cinematic Center. The Moroccan government views this legislation as a means to redefine the cinematic landscape by digitizing and simplifying administrative procedures for obtaining filming and distribution licenses, modernizing the organizational structures of production companies, and implementing mechanisms to protect human resources and Moroccan technicians. This aims to ensure the transfer and localization of international expertise.
Hanine notes that these legal reforms have established clearer and more professional foundations for organizing production activities, recognizing local and international accreditation, and structuring contracts and professions. Yet, he adds, "While this development represents the necessary legal framework and a fundamental building block, it does not constitute the industry itself. The gap between Morocco’s status as a host country and its ambition to build an independent industry has narrowed on legal and institutional levels, but economic, financial, and commercial challenges remain. An independent national cinematic industry requires, in addition to regulatory texts, strong companies, sustainable funding, a broad domestic market, and real capabilities for distribution and exportation."
This local legislative surge has swiftly extended its reach to promising international dimensions through cultural diplomacy. This was notably showcased during a high-level Moroccan-French meeting held last week in Rabat, where both nations signed a series of strategic agreements, including a joint declaration of intent regarding cooperation in the fields of cinema and visual industries across the African continent.
In an effort to diversify geographical centers and not confine the cinematic industry to a single area, Morocco is witnessing a boom in cinematic infrastructure, which is categorized between two strategic hubs. The launch of the massive "Arkan Studios" film city project in the Rabat-Casablanca axis aims to create an integrated system that includes specialized training centers and advanced post-production wings. This development positions Morocco to compete with global centers and attract the attention of major digital streaming platforms such as Netflix and Disney.
Alongside this urban hub, the depth of Morocco's cinematic landscape has been further enhanced with the official launch by the Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, of the construction works for the "International City of Cinema" in Ouarzazate, with an investment budget of 240 million dirhams (approximately 26 million US dollars).
As reported by alquds.co.uk.
