The second edition of the National Festival of Cinema and History in Marrakech concluded successfully, taking place from May 20 to 24 under the theme "Cinema and the Old City." This year's program featured a rich blend of film screenings, intellectual seminars, training workshops, and open discussions with key figures in the cultural and cinematic fields. The festival was skillfully managed by writer and researcher Amal Abbassi, who ensured that the event was both engaging and educational.
During this edition, renowned Moroccan artist Mohamed Muftah was honored for his contributions to the industry. The festival showcased the film “Thread of the Soul,” directed by Hakim Belabbas, which delves into themes of self, memory, and identity through a visual and humanistic lens. In a tribute segment, film critic and journalist Hassan Nraiss reflected on pivotal moments from Muftah's artistic journey, highlighting his performances and significant roles within Arab cinema and drama.
The festival kicked off with a special tribute to artist Rabi' Al-Qati, who presented the film “Noubat Al-Ashaq” by director Kamal Kamal. This film evokes the rich tapestry of popular memory and social transformations within Moroccan society. Additionally, the program included artistic workshops held in educational institutions across Marrakech, facilitated by artist Habib Ahmadane and film critic Boubker Lhayhi, focusing on visual storytelling and performance techniques.
On the intellectual front, a master class entitled “Cinema and the Memory of the City” was hosted, featuring writer and president of the Cinema and Memory Festival in Nador, Abdel Salam Boutib, alongside Mustafa Ghalmane, the president of the Marrakech festival. The discussion centered around the intricate relationship between cinema and the collective memory of cities.
The festival also featured a national seminar on the representation of the old city in Moroccan cinema. Esteemed critics and researchers such as Ashraf Al-Hussaini, Abdel Samad Kabbas, and Rashid Naeem participated, with the meeting moderated by researcher Abdel Latif Lqaliida. The presentations emphasized the presence of the old city in Moroccan cinema as a space for memory and social changes.
Furthermore, the program included the presentation of the book “Bjaad... The Architectural and Urban Heritage of the Old City” by engineer Abdel Ghani Kheldoun, with contributions from Mohammed Ait Lamim and Mohammed Salah Bouchtala. The screening of the feature film “Small Joys” by director Mohammed Rashid Al-Tarbiq was also part of the agenda, with film critic Mohammed Ashouika leading the discussion. This enriching festival not only celebrated cinematic achievements but also fostered dialogue and reflection on the vital connections between cinema and cultural identity.
As reported by hespress.com.
