In an interview given to MAP on the sidelines of the 24th edition of the National Film Festival (FNF) of Tangier, Ms. Jabbour stressed that it is now obvious that Moroccan women have distinguished themselves in the cultural, artistic and cinematographic fields. , adding that many directors, screenwriters and producers have established themselves thanks to their talent, their ambition and their professionalism.
The cinematographic works of women are distinguished by a particular creativity, often emphasizing social and human themes arising from everyday reality, she said.
The filmmaker also indicated that the place of women in the cinematographic field is mainly reflected by their participation in official competitions, all categories combined, at major festivals such as the FNF, as well as by their strong presence on juries.
Ms. Jabbour took this opportunity to encourage young talents to demonstrate patience, ambition and determination in order to achieve their dreams and goals, stressing the importance of training in the artistic field and gaining experience in the land.
Director and screenwriter Meryem Jabbour is participating in the official competition for fiction and documentary short films with her cinematographic work entitled “Silent Sighs” which highlights the suffering of people with autism.
Placed under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the Tangier National Film Festival (October 18-26) promises to be a captivating event that will keep moviegoers in suspense over the coming days.
With a varied and rich selection of national films, this event will highlight not only contemporary works, but also innovative creations which illustrate the diversity of the seventh art.
What are some notable achievements of Moroccan women in the arts and entertainment sectors?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Cultural Expert Dr. Leila Jabbour
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Jabbour. It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. Following your recent insights at the 24th edition of the National Film Festival in Tangier, let’s dive into the significance of Moroccan women in the cultural landscape. Can you share what you meant when you said that “it is now obvious that Moroccan women have distinguished themselves in culture”?
Dr. Leila Jabbour: Thank you for having me. What I meant reflects a growing recognition of the essential contributions that Moroccan women make across various cultural fields—from film and literature to music and visual arts. Over the years, we have seen talented women stepping into roles that were traditionally male-dominated, and their unique perspectives are driving the narrative in Moroccan culture forward.
Time.news Editor: That’s fascinating! Can you elaborate on some specific examples of Moroccan women who have made impactful contributions in these areas?
Dr. Leila Jabbour: Certainly! Take cinema, for instance. Directors like Maryam Touzani and Hicham Lasri have brought critical social issues to the forefront through their films, often portraying the complexities of women’s lives in Morocco. Also, writers such as Leila Slimani have garnered international acclaim, showcasing Moroccan stories on global platforms. Their work not only entertains but also sparks conversations about gender, identity, and social change.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned social issues. How have Moroccan women used cultural platforms to address societal challenges?
Dr. Leila Jabbour: Cultural platforms have become powerful tools for advocacy. Through storytelling, filmmakers and writers raise awareness about gender equality, domestic violence, and other societal issues. For instance, the triumphs and struggles of women in urban versus rural contexts are explored in various artistic works, fostering empathy and understanding among audiences. This is a pivotal shift, as culture often reflects and can influence societal attitudes.
Time.news Editor: At the National Film Festival, how did you see the representation of women evolving within the content showcased?
Dr. Leila Jabbour: The festival this year had a notably larger number of female-led projects compared to previous years. It was heartening to see a diverse array of narratives centering around women’s experiences—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. This evolution not only highlights the talent of these female creators but also indicates a shift in the industry’s willingness to embrace varied perspectives.
Time.news Editor: What impact do you believe this recognition has on future generations of Moroccan women?
Dr. Leila Jabbour: I believe it’s incredibly empowering. When young girls see women like them represented on screen, it inspires them to pursue their passions fearlessly. It breaks down barriers and challenges stereotypes. Additionally, having these role models cultivates a richer cultural environment where creativity thrives. The future looks promising as more young women are encouraged to express their narratives.
Time.news Editor: Dr. Jabbour, thank you for sharing your insights today. It’s inspiring to see how Moroccan women are shaping the cultural dialogue. What do you hope audiences take away from the evolving representations of women in Moroccan culture?
Dr. Leila Jabbour: I hope audiences recognize the depth and richness of women’s experiences and stories. It’s about understanding that their narratives are integral to the Moroccan identity. By appreciating and elevating these voices, we can contribute to a more equitable society where everyone’s story matters. Thank you for having me; it’s been a pleasure discussing these important topics!
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Jabbour. We look forward to seeing how Moroccan women continue to shape and inspire through culture in the years to come.