The FIFM 2024 promises to be an edition marked by the diversity and commitment of the works presented: 70 works and 32 countries represented. This 21st edition pays tribute to emblematic figures of the seventh art such as Naima Elmcherqui, Sean Penn and David Cronenberg.
The Marrakech International Film Festival (FIFM) returns in 2024 with a rich and ambitious program, bringing together 70 films from 32 countries. This edition promises to be an exceptional crossroads for world cinema, where the perspectives of established directors and emerging voices intersect. The FIFM Official Competition, dedicated to first and second feature films, explores various genres, from drama to documentary, including futuristic stories and romantic comedy, offering film lovers a mosaic of universal and contemporary themes.
Among the candidates for the Golden Star, the festival’s top distinction, are promising talents such as Moroccans Saïd Hamich Benlarbi and Hind Meddeb. Benlarbi presents “La Mer au Loin,” a poignant work that addresses the issue of exile, while Meddeb presents “Soudan, souviens-toi,” a vibrant tribute to Sudanese youth fighting
for freedom. These filmmakers, like their international counterparts, demonstrate a desire for engagement by addressing universal themes that are rooted in local realities.
Global issues are at the heart of many works in competition: from “Under the Volcano” by Ukrainian Damian Kocur, to “The Village Next to Paradise” by Mo Harawe from Somalia, to “The Wolves Always Come at
Night” by Gabrielle Brady, which explores the effects of climate change in Mongolia. These films, with their burning themes, offer striking perspectives on the crises shaking the world.
In Asia, directors such as Huo Xin and The Maw Naing delve into complex realities such as domestic violence in China and the struggles of Burmese workers, painting portraits of courageous women in the face
of adversity. In Egypt, Muhammed Hamdy and Turkey’s Murat Fıratoğlu also tackle national realities with artistic and visual audacity, revealing the social specificities of their respective countries.
“Les Nuits et Non-Dits des Familles” as a revealer of social tensions
The FIFM 2024 also highlights works that question family intimacy and the social tensions reflected therein. For example, “Happy Holidays” by Scandar Copti and “The Cottage” by Silvina Schnicer examine the internal dynamics of Palestinian and Argentinian families, questioning the place of the family in constantly changing societies.
The festival also gives a place to dramatic comedy with films such as “Happy End” by Neo Sora, which explores the political awakening of Japanese teenagers, or “Jane Austen a gâche ma vie” by Laura Piani, a tender and funny satire on romantic disillusionment.
The opening of the FIFM 2024 will be marked by the screening of “The Order” by Justin Kurzel, a captivating thriller, as well as six Gala Screenings that will welcome world-renowned directors such as David Cronenberg, Nabil Ayouch and Walter Salles. Among the highlights, “Les Shrouds de Cronenberg”, an introspective work by the master of fantasy, should captivate festival-goers.
Among these screenings, films such as “The Seeds of the Wild Fig Tree” by Mohammad Rasoulof, a plea for freedom in Iran, and “The Fourth Wall” by David Oelhoffen, questioning the role of art in times of war, will undoubtedly resonate deeply with the public.
Focus on Moroccan cinema and a tribute to cinema without borders
The Panorama of Moroccan cinema highlights a dozen local films, including “The Thousand and One Days of Hajj by Hajj Edmond” by Simone Bitton and “Sonate Nocturne” by Abdeslam Kelai, testifying to the richness and diversity of national cinema. The “11th Continent” section also highlights the festival’s spirit of openness by bringing together 13 works by filmmakers who push the boundaries of cinematic representation, a bold program revealing often unknown territories and cultures.
These screenings will take place in emblematic locations in Marrakech, including the Palais des Congrès and the Yves Saint-Laurent Museum.
For young audiences, a specially designed selection offers films suitable for children and adolescents, thus providing an enriching introduction to cinema for all generations.
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