All You Need to Know About the 2024 Marrakech International Film Festival
November 10, 2024
A Celebration of Cinematic Diversity with 70 Films Competing for the Étoile d’Or
The 2024 Marrakech International Film Festival kicks off on November 29, bringing together a dynamic selection of 70 films from 32 countries. Celebrating its 21st edition, this Festival will showcase a cinematic journey grounded in cultural exchange, diversity, and creativity. Founded by King Mohammed VI, it has become a landmark event in the Arab world and Africa, drawing talent and film lovers to the bustling heart of Marrakech.
THE JURY LED BY LUCA GUADAGNINO
Italian filmmaker Luca Guadagnino leads this year’s jury with his unmistakable passion and creative spirit. Known for films like Call Me by Your Name and Challengers, Guadagnino brings a personal connection to Marrakech, describing the city as inseparable from his love for cinema. Joining him is a diverse lineup of jurors—global talents from actors like Andrew Garfield and Patricia Arquette to directors such as Zoya Akhtar and Santiago Mitre. Together, they’ll navigate the festival’s official competition, where 14 films vie for the prestigious Étoile d’Or.
STORIES WITHOUT BORDERS
This year’s competition is rich in cultural narratives and global concerns. Opening with The Order, a thriller by Justin Kurzel, the selection brings fresh voices and urgent stories. Highlights include Soudan, Souviens-Toi by Hind Meddeb, a poetic glimpse into Sudanese youth, and One of Those Days When Hemme Dies by Murat Firatoglu, a Turkish tale of resilience. The Festival also presents Under the Volcano by Damian Kocur, tackling the Ukraine conflict, and The Wolves Always Come at Night by Gabrielle Brady, a haunting look at climate change in Mongolia.
From Algeria’s Les Tempêtes by Dania Reymond-Boughenou to China’s Bound in Heaven by Huo Xin, the official selection showcases powerful narratives that capture the essence of world cinema.
GALA SCREENINGS, MOROCCAN CINEMA, AND HONORS
The Gala Screenings and Special Presentations feature some of the year’s most anticipated international films. The Festival-goers will be pleased with a curated selection of high-profile global cinema. The Moroccan Cinema Panorama section brings national talent to the forefront, celebrating Morocco’s unique voice in film and allowing local filmmakers to share their stories. The 21st Edition will honor the contributions of acclaimed filmmakers Naïma Elmcherqui, Sean Penn, and David Cronenberg with dedicated screenings at the prestigious Palais des Congrès and the Musée Yves Saint Laurent, giving audiences a rare opportunity to experience the iconic works of these cinematic visionaries.”
WHERE TO CATCH THE FESTIVAL
Festival Dates: November 29 – December 7, 2024
Venues: Palais des Congrès – Primary screenings and special tributes
Musée Yves Saint Laurent – Dedicated screenings for honored filmmakers
Tickets: Available on the official festival website
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