IFFM:A round table with Moroccan actors

The first point discussed was this eighth edition of the international film festival of Marrakech.  It was said that this festival is very unique and it is good to have a different edition each year. “We always wait for a new edition it is always a unique one each time” said one of the actors present at the meeting.

Besides, the idea of paying tribute to the Moroccan cinema was welcomed by the participants and the Moroccan actors were curious about the love of the Moroccan audience for the British cinema which according to one of the participants is a good sign of the importance of  honouring of 40 years of British cinema which was a special tribute at this edition. Moreover, one of the Moroccan actors added that this tribute will be an opportunity for new cooperation between Moroccans and British in cinema and with more British movies with Moroccan actors.

“This tribute is a great occasion for us to meet the famous British actors we used to watch when we were young and we are still fans of them and of their movies” added one of the actors. Besides, the IFFM was also compared to other international film festivals that are older, but it was said that the IFFM has its own place  now within the international agenda and it is competing at high levels. The audio description technique in movies screened at the IFFM was also mentioned during the discussion aware  that it is a first in Morocco and both Africa and the Arab world.

“As Moroccan actors we are very happy to have a recognized status as actors and stars, which  we have obtained thanks to His Majesty and His Royal Highness through this festival”. “ Now we can also walk on the red carpet and feel appreciated for our talent” said two actors.

Concerning the question about cinema and theatre in Morocco, one of the actors mentioned that the cinema field has developed tremendously in the last 10 years in Morocco. According to him there are new talented actors and actresses who work hard with the “new generation” of directors to develop the Moroccan cinema more and more. However, it was mentioned that there is a real need for more financial aid to develop both fields of cinema and theatre in Morocco, knowing that we have a very highly skilled staff in the field especially the technical teams that are 100% Moroccan.

Concerning theatre, as it was mentioned during the discussion, there is a real danger that threatens this art. The lack of funds is considered as the direct cause behind the decrease of the number of Moroccan plays but also the hesitation of the public toward going to the  theatre to see plays. The public that is “used to the free shows and festivals all over the year, do not feel the need to go and buy a ticket to attend a Moroccan play at the theatre” said one of the actors. All the participants expressed their disappointment and sadness regarding the closing of cinemas and movie theatres and believe that it is time to ring the warning bell!  

One of the participants also mentioned  the importance of honouring the technical teams and staff who work “behind the scene” since these play a great role in the success of any movie. There was also a suggestion of a special award for technicians or movie staff to be included in the next edition of the IFFM. The foundation of the IFFM was also mentioned during the discussion and its numerous actions during the whole year were very welcomed by the participants.