Initiated by the “Al Moubadara Attakafiya” Association, this cinematographic event, which continues until November 16 in the pearl of Souss, highlights Moroccan cinema, while promoting the various national expressions.
With the world premiere screening of films produced during this year, this edition provides a rich and diverse program, including screenings of films out of competition, artistic and cultural meetings, workshops and conferences on various themes.
Thus, the official competition includes eight feature films and ten short films on the theme of the phenomenon of migration. The evaluation of the competing feature films is entrusted to an international jury chaired by the Franco-Moroccan director, producer and writer Moumen Smihi.
The jury also includes Moroccan-Canadian Houda Rihani, Moroccan director, screenwriter and writer Saad Chraibi, Tunisian producer and film industry expert Taoufiq Guiga, Moroccan-Dutch director Chaouki El Oufir and Moroccan director, professor and writer Abdellah Abou Aouad.
As for the short films, they will be evaluated by a jury chaired by the Moroccan director, producer and screenwriter Adil El Fadili, the Moroccan actress Khadija Sakarine, the Franco-Moroccan actress Mounia Magueri, the author, composer, director French artist and musician Joël Pellegrini, and film researcher Mohammed Belghouate.
In a statement to MAP, Mr. Smihi said he was very honored by his participation in this internationally renowned festival. The objective of this major event, according to him, is to contribute to the continued development of the film industry.
Describing the theme of migration as “capital”, given that this issue arises in a context marked by an international economic situation where inequalities prevail in their different forms, he noted that the organizers of this event are at the at the forefront of this subject, with the ambition to fight for better living and well-being for all.
For his part, the secretary general of the “Al Moubadara Attakafiya” Association, Mohamed Irgui, noted that the particularity of this edition lies in the world premiere screening of no less than four films produced during this year.
Through culture and art touching on the theme of migration, he said, this Festival has marked several generations over these twenty years, emphasizing the diversity of both the programming and the spaces dedicated to large cinema-loving public.
During the opening ceremony, a vibrant posthumous tribute was paid to the great actress and Moroccan audiovisual icon, the late Naima El Mechrqui.
This 20th edition is organized in partnership with the Wilaya of Souss-Massa, the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication, the Souss-Massa region, the Prefectural Council of Agadir, the commune of Agadir, the Council of the Moroccan community abroad, the Moroccan Cinematographic Center, as well as other public and private institutional partners.
Interview: The Evolution of Moroccan Cinema and the 2023 Souss Film Festival
[Setting: A cozy office with film posters adorning the walls. The Time.news editor, Anna, sits across from Moumen Smihi, the celebrated Franco-Moroccan director and chair of the jury for this year’s Souss Film Festival.]
Anna: Thank you for joining us today, Moumen! The Souss Film Festival is generating a lot of buzz. Could you share with us what makes this year’s edition particularly special?
Moumen Smihi: Thank you, Anna! This year is significant because it highlights not only the emerging talents of Moroccan cinema but also engages deeply with the theme of migration—a topic that resonates universally. The festival celebrates the diversity of our national expressions and provides a platform for meaningful discussions on migration’s impact.
Anna: That’s an intriguing theme. Why did the jury decide to focus specifically on migration for both feature and short films?
Moumen Smihi: Migration is an ongoing global phenomenon and affects many lives. By centering our competition around this theme, we encourage filmmakers to explore various narratives—whether it’s the struggles, triumphs, or the everyday experiences of migrants. It’s a chance for these stories to reach a wider audience and inspire empathy and understanding.
Anna: The lineup includes an impressive array of films. Can you tell us a bit about the selection process for the feature films?
Moumen Smihi: Absolutely. We had a diverse range of submissions, but the eight feature films chosen for the official competition truly reflect the richness of contemporary Moroccan cinema. Our international jury, composed of established filmmakers and industry experts from various backgrounds, brought their diverse perspectives to the evaluation process. It was a collaborative effort to ensure we acknowledge innovative narratives and artistic excellence.
Anna: Speaking of the jury, how does the diversity of its members enhance the evaluation process?
Moumen Smihi: Diversity is vital in any creative endeavor, especially in film. Each jury member brings unique insights from their cultural backgrounds and experiences within the industry, enriching the discussion and decision-making process. It enables us to appreciate films from multiple angles, ensuring a more comprehensive evaluation of the works presented.
Anna: Moving on to the workshops and conferences, what can participants expect from these events?
Moumen Smihi: Participants can look forward to engaging with experienced filmmakers and industry professionals during the workshops. They’ll cover various aspects, from storytelling techniques to practical filmmaking skills. The conferences will delve deeper into the social themes explored in the films, including migration, cultural identity, and the evolution of Moroccan cinema, sparking lively discussions and debates.
Anna: It sounds like attendees will have plenty of opportunities to engage and learn! What do you hope audiences take away from this festival?
Moumen Smihi: I hope audiences leave with a stronger appreciation for the artistry and depth of Moroccan cinema. More importantly, I wish for them to understand the stories behind the filmmakers’ creations. The themes explored are not just Moroccan but reflect shared human experiences. This festival is about connection—between artists, audiences, and cultures.
Anna: That’s beautifully said. One last question, Moumen: how do you see the future of Moroccan cinema evolving in the coming years?
Moumen Smihi: I believe Moroccan cinema is on the brink of a significant transformation. With the increasing support for filmmakers and more platforms emerging to showcase our stories, we are poised to reach wider audiences both locally and internationally. As we continue to explore relevant themes and innovate our storytelling techniques, I am optimistic about the future of our cinematic landscape.
Anna: Thank you so much for your insights, Moumen. It’s been a pleasure chatting with you, and I can’t wait to see how this year’s festival unfolds!
Moumen Smihi: Thank you, Anna! It’s my pleasure. I encourage everyone to join us at the festival, and let’s celebrate the power of storytelling together.