The 22nd Marrakech International Film Festival will tribute U.S. actor-director Jodie Foster, Mexican director Guillermo del Toro, Moroccan actress Raouya, and Egyptian actor Hussein Fahmi during its run from November 28 to December 6. Foster will introduce Rebecca Zlotowski's 'Vie Privée' (A Private Life), while Del Toro presents his 'Frankenstein.' The honorees shared excitement about the event and the city's cultural allure.
Festival Overview
The Marrakech International Film Festival, a prominent event in the Arab world, returns for its 22nd edition from November 28 to December 6 in Marrakech, Morocco. This year's highlights include tributes to four industry figures: Jodie Foster, known for her acting and directing in films like 'Taxi Driver' and 'Little Man Tate'; Guillermo del Toro, acclaimed for fantasy works such as 'Pan's Labyrinth' and 'The Shape of Water'; Raouya, a celebrated Moroccan actress; and Hussein Fahmi, a veteran Egyptian actor, director, and producer.
Presentations and Tributes
Foster will introduce 'Vie Privée' (A Private Life), directed by Rebecca Zlotowski, offering festival attendees a first look at the new film. Del Toro, returning to the festival, will screen 'Frankenstein,' described by him as his most personal work. Raouya and Fahmi receive honors recognizing their contributions to regional cinema, with Fahmi noting his long history with the event since its inaugural edition.
Honorees' Statements
In a statement, Foster expressed, “What an honor to discover your beautiful city of Marrakech and to celebrate film at the same time. I can’t wait to experience the historic sites, gardens, and markets, to walk alongside new friends, colleagues, and movie lovers.”
Del Toro added, “I am thrilled to be invited to return to the wonderful Marrakech International Film Festival. Since my previous visit, both the festival and the city have always been so welcoming to me. I’m especially honored to receive a tribute, and to show the audience my most personal work, ‘Frankenstein.’”
Raouya shared, “What joy and emotion to be celebrated in my own country, in the ochre city, at one of its largest film events. Above all, my connection to the festival is a story of friendship and loyalty. Every encounter with Marrakech and its audience remains a precious moment for me—I have so many memories of exciting films and exchanges.”
Fahmi reflected, “Being one of those who attended the festival’s first edition, it gives me a great energy and enthusiasm to get together again with colleagues and friends from across the globe. The city of Marrakech has a special place in my heart as one of my earliest films, ‘Damy wadmoy waebtsamty’ (My Blood, My Tears, My Smile) was shot there. Coming back to this joyful city to be honored is a very precious moment.”
These tributes underscore the festival's role in bridging international and regional cinema, fostering cultural exchange in Marrakech's vibrant setting.