The 7th Mediterranean Short Film Festival, 12-17 October in Tangier

Tangier has hosted this event for the last 7 years. It highlights, promotes, and rewards the most talented film makers. Among the Moroccan films taking part in the competition this year are are: "Laughing in Tears" by Mohamed Labdaoui, "Poupiya" by Samia Cherkoui, "Hello Pizza" by Mourad El Khaoudi, "Last Chapter" by Jihane El Bahhar and "The Assignment" by Radouane and Khalid Fadel.

All these films, along with many others from different countries are trying to win one of three prizes of the festival, namely the Grand Prix of Tangier, the Jury Prize and Best Screenplay. Last year's Grand Prize was awarded to the Portuguese film ''Before Tomorrow" by Galavo Goncalo Teles.

Generally much less expensive than the movie, the short film is a very good school for young filmmakers. This exercise, considered essential by some, uses the same qualities as those required to make a film of normal length.