The inaugural edition of the Marrakech International Film Festival took place in winter 2001, just several months after the terrifying events of September 11 in New York. Despite the grim international context, the brand new festival was a really inclusive event that united people and cultures from across the globe.
During the first years of the festival’s existence, outstanding French film producer and film critic Daniel Toscan du Plantier played a very important role in organizing and promoting the event. He led the team consisting of his Moroccan colleagues with his signature enthusiasm, professionalism and passion, striving to transform the Marrakech International Film Festival into a crossroads of culture and a platform for finding and supporting young and talented filmmakers.
The main goals of Morocco’s main film festival are to introduce the Moroccan audience to the best national and international films, to contribute to the development of the Moroccan film industry, and to promote arts and cinema in the country. The festival encourages diversity and helps to build bridges between different countries and cultures.
The program of the Marrakech International Film Festival includes competitive and non-competitive film screenings, tributes, workshops and other events for the public and film industry professionals. The winners of the festival’s competition are chosen by the international jury made up of prominent filmmakers and actors from different countries. The winners are announced during the closing ceremony.
The Gran Prix of the film festival in Marrakesh is the Golden Star (Étoile d’or). It is awarded to the best film in the international competition. Special Jury Prizes are awarded to the best film, best director, best actress, best actor, best screenplay, best short film, etc. The categories might change from year to year.
Photo: festivalmarrakech.info
