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Marrakech – An old folk legend continues to strike fear into even the bravest souls in the heart of 21st-century, hyper-modernizing Morocco.
Known as Aïcha Kandisha, this folk legend is described as a centuries-old demon—a stunning woman with a serpent’s lower body.
It is said that her power to ensnare and devour men is matched only by her flowing, dark hair that trails like tendrils of smoke.
Across generations, her tale has been woven deeply into Moroccan folklore, whispered from one storyteller to the next, captivating all who dare to listen.
However, the tale of Kandisha has transcended oral tradition, evolving into a chilling movie experience now readily available on screens worldwide.
Whether it’s Halloween or any other time, the eerie vibes are sure to haunt viewers.
Kandisha (2008)
In the wake of personal tragedy, Nyla Jayde, a gifted criminal defense attorney, finds herself immersed in a case tied to a 14th-century Moroccan myth: a malevolent entity known as “Kandisha.”
Directed by Jerome Cohen-Olivar, the film features a talented ensemble cast including Amira Casar, David Carradine, Michaël Cohen, Saïd Taghmaoui, Mourad Zaoui, Hiam Abbass, and Assaad Bouab.
For many Moroccan Gen Z and millennials, this movie is a chilling tale that haunts their memories, especially the eerie figure of the lady in the white dress.
The movie has sparked lively debates on platforms like X and Reddit, quickly becoming a top recommendation for anyone seeking Moroccan or Moroccan-inspired horror films.
For instance, the Global Islamic Studies Center at the University of Michigan tweeted on X a question it said was posed during one of their panels: “What counts as #MuslimHorror? Does #Kandisha (2008) count or is it simply a Moroccan culture film?”
This “Kandisha” made its debut at the Marrakech International Film Festival in 2008.
Kandisha (2020)
Another “Kandisha,” a French horror film by Alexandre Bustillo and Julien Maury, brings chills with its eerie plot and standout performances by Meriem Sarolie, Walid Afkir, Suzy Bemba, Bakary Diombera, Mathilde Lamusse, Félix Glaux-Delporto, and Sandor Funtek.
The story follows three teenage friends who summon Aïsha Kandisha, a vengeful spirit from Moroccan legend.
What begins as a harmless game spirals into terror when Kandisha’s wrath isn’t satisfied with just one victim.
As the spirit’s fury threatens their loved ones, the friends desperately seek help from an Islamic father-and-son team of spiritualists.
The stakes escalate as Kandisha targets Amelie’s younger brother, Antoine, pushing the friends into a race against time to stop the ancient evil from using one of them as a human host.
“Kandisha” made its world debut at the 2020 Sitges Film Festival on October 16, 2020, premiering in the “Oficial Fantàstic Competición” section.
Boo!
As a tale, a movie, or a perceived real story, the fearful Aïcha Kandisha continues to tighten its grip on the hearts of many people.
As her legend endures, her power continues to haunt the susceptible: a chilling reminder of the supernatural lurking just beyond the shadows.
Watch out, dear readers, for she might be right behind you.
