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 Naïma 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 views of established directors and emerging voices intersect. The official FIFM Competition, dedicated to first and second feature films, explores various genres, from drama to documentary, including science fiction and romantic comedy, offering film fans a mosaic of universal and contemporary themes.
Among the candidates for the Golden Star, the festival’s supreme distinction, are promising talents such as Moroccans Saïd Hamich Benlarbi and Hind Meddeb. Benlarbi suggests “ The Sea in the Distance », a poignant work which addresses the question of exile, while Meddeb presents “ Sudan, remember », a vibrant tribute to Sudanese youth fighting for freedom. These filmmakers, like their international colleagues, demonstrate a desire for commitment by dealing with universal themes, but rooted in local realities.
Global issues are at the heart of many works in competition: from “ Under the Volcano » by the Ukrainian Damian Kocur, to “ The Village Next to Paradise » from Mo Harawe of Somalia, via “ The Wolves Always Come at Night » by Gabrielle Brady, who explores the effects of climate change in Mongolia. These films, with burning themes, offer striking perspectives on the crises shaking the world.
On the Asian side, 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 the Turk Murat Fıratoğlu also tackle national realities with artistic and visual audacity, revealing the social specificities of their respective countries.
“The Nights and Unsaid of Families” revealing social tensions
FIFM 2024 also highlights works that question family intimacy and the social tensions reflected there. So, ” Happy Holidays » by Scandar Copti et « The Cottage » by Silvina Schnicer examine the internal dynamics of Palestinian and Argentine families, questioning the place of the family in constantly changing societies.
The festival also gives a place to dramatic comedy with films like “ Happy end »’ by Neo Sora, which explores the political awakening of Japanese adolescents, or even « Jane Austen ruined my life » by Laura Piani, a tender and amusing satire on romantic disillusionment.
The opening of FIFM 2024 will be marked by the screening of “ The Order » by Justin Kurzel, a captivating thriller, as well as six Gala Screenings which will welcome world-renowned directors such as David Cronenberg, Nabil Ayouch and Walter Salles. Among the highlights, “ Cronenberg’s Shrouds », an introspective work by the master of fantasy, should captivate festival-goers.
Among these screenings, films like “ Seeds of the wild fig tree » by Mohammad Rasoulof, 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 tribute to cinema without borders
The Panorama of Moroccan Cinema highlights a dozen local films, including “ The Thousand and One Days of the Hajj by Hajj Edmond » by Simone Bitton and « Nocturnal Sonata » by Abdeslam Kelai, testifying to the richness and diversity of national cinema. The section « 11e Continent » also underlines the spirit of openness of the festival by bringing together 13 works by filmmakers who push the boundaries of cinematic representation, a daring program revealing territories and cultures that are often little-known.
These screenings will take place in emblematic places in Marrakech, notably 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 offering an enriching introduction to cinema for all generations.
RT/SF/ac/APA
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