Rabat – In a landmark event held on Thursday evening, the Marriott Rabat hotel played host to luminaries of the Moroccan film industry, offering a platform to discuss the challenges, opportunities, and unique aspects of the country’s cinematic landscape.
Youssef Soussi, the artistic director of Marriott Rabat and Fes
The event, aptly named “Rencontre,” – meaning “to meet” in French – marked the beginning of a series that aims to foster dialogue and connection between the public and prominent personalities from diverse fields.
“Rencontre,” according to Youssef Soussi, the artistic director of Marriott Rabat and Fes, is an “opportunity to come and meet public personalities from various fields.”
Anas El Baz, Moroccan movie start
Leader of the initiative, Soussi told Morocco World News (MWN) that he envisions the Marriott Rabat as a vibrant cultural hub, encapsulated in the guiding principle of “wonder in essence.”
For its inaugural edition, the spotlight was on the Moroccan film industry, with esteemed figures gracing the occasion including director Jérôme Cohen, actor Anas Elbaz, and Bahaa Trabelsi, Chair of the Moroccan Film Center Commission.
Marriott Rabat’s “Rencontre” was guided by Soussi’s vision of “wonder in essence,” transforming the hotel into a vibrant space for various art forms.
Soussi told MWN that this vision of wonder is evident at the dining table at Marriott’s restaurants, but is not limited to culinary experiences. The event showcased the hotel’s commitment to engaging all the senses through painting workshops, art exhibitions, and musical events.
Jérôme Cohen, film director
Barbara Opsomer, a multi-talented French actress, singer, and content creator, also spoke with MWN during the event, in which she shared her passion for cinema. Living in Morocco for two years, she expressed a desire to explore Moroccan cinema and contribute her “French touch” to the industry.
Opsomer’s journey reflects the diverse and international nature of Morocco’s burgeoning film scene, attracting talent from around the world.
Throughout the conversation, Opsomer noted challenges she faced entering the Moroccan film industry, emphasizing the need to prove herself in an unfamiliar landscape. Despite being a newcomer, her enthusiasm and determination to contribute to Moroccan cinema were palpable.
“Tonight is an opportunity because there are prominent people. And once again, it’s an industry that I don’t know here in Morocco, so I can’t claim to talk about Moroccan cinema. But, in any case, I am very eager,” she added.
Gaetano Petruzzella, director of Mariott Rabat
At the networking event, MWN also gathered illuminating insights from Zhor Fassi Fihri, a prominent film director and producer. Fihri highlighted the remarkable growth and development of Morocco’s film industry, citing improved production quality and increased international recognition.
Fihri expressed gratitude to Marriott for providing a platform to share her experiences and inspire hope in aspiring filmmakers. Her emphasis on the significance of the film industry in her life resonates with the broader narrative of Morocco’s cinematic journey.
“For me, it’s very important to talk and to give hope to people that we can do movies in 2024,” Fihri told MWN. “I also want to thank Marriott Rabat for believing in me and for calling me to be the voice of hope.”
As Moroccocontinues to make strides in the global film landscape, events like Rencontre at Marriott Rabat contribute to the industry’s visibility and offer a space for professionals and enthusiasts to connect.
Barbara Opsomer, French actress, singer, and content creator
Looking ahead, Marriott Rabat plans to continue hosting Rencontres events, with future editions exploring new themes such as a Valentine’s Day celebration and discussions on personal development during Ramadan.
The hotel’s dedication to providing a platform for diverse voices aligns with Morocco’s evolving identity as a hub for creativity and innovation in the film industry.
As the cultural landscape of Morocco continues to flourish, events like these contribute to the nation’s narrative, laying groundwork to shape it into a beacon for cinematic excellence and cultural exchange.
