The 20th International Festival of Cinema and Migration kicked off on Monday in Agadir, bringing together a vibrant mix of industry figures, artists, and film lovers to honor Moroccan cinema and explore migration through film.
Sponsored by the “Al Moubadara Attakafiya” Association, this year’s festival features a number of films whose primary theme is migration.
French-Moroccan filmmaker and writer Moumen Smihi is heading up the impressive international jury that will judge the eight feature films and ten short films in the main competition. Other jurors include Moroccan-Canadian actress Houda Rihani, Moroccan filmmaker Saad Chraibi, Tunisian producer Taoufiq Guiga, Moroccan-Dutch director Chaouki El Oufir, and Moroccan academic Abdellah Abou Aouad.
The short film jury, led by Moroccan director Adil El Fadili, includes actress Khadija Sakarine, Franco-Moroccan performer Mounia Magueri, French composer Joël Pellegrini, and cinema researcher Mohammed Belghouate.
Smihi applauded the festival, saying it ‘lifts Moroccan cinema to new heights’ and ‘boldly tackles the complex issue of migration,’ which he described as a ‘crucial issue’ in a world deeply affected by economic inequality.
Association Secretary-General Mohamed Irgui highlighted this year’s unique appeal, noting the premiere of four Moroccan films and the festival’s lasting influence on multiple generations of film enthusiasts.
Opening night honored the late Naima El Mechrqui, a beloved figure in Moroccan television and film, celebrating her contribution to Moroccan culture.
This year’s festival is held in partnership with numerous public and private institutions, including the Wilaya of Souss-Massa, Morocco’s Ministry of Youth, and the Moroccan Cinematographic Center, reflecting a collective commitment to celebrating cinema and dialogue on migration.
The festival runs until November 16.