Rabat – For the first time in its history, the prestigious Venice Production Bridge is honoring Morocco during the 82nd Venice International Film Festival, which runs from August 27 to September 6 in the iconic Italian city.
Leading this milestone participation, an official Moroccan delegation headed by Mohamed Reda Benjelloun, Director of the Moroccan Cinematographic Center (CCM), is showcasing the country’s growing influence in global cinema. The delegation includes key institutional representatives and film professionals working to strengthen Morocco’s presence in international markets.
This recognition places Morocco alongside the United Kingdom and Chile as this year’s honored countries, reflecting the nation’s expanding footprint in co-production, distribution, and the promotion of emerging talent. It also aligns with the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication’s international strategy under the vision of King Mohammed VI.
Moroccan Cinema in the Spotlight
Throughout the event, Moroccan cinema will be prominently featured in major segments of the Venice Production Bridge. The Venice Gap-Financing Market, dedicated to projects seeking funding, has selected three Moroccan feature films: “Tarfaya” by Sofia Alaoui, “The Black Pearl” by Ayoub Qanir, and “The Missing Camel” by Cheikh N’Diaye.
In the Final Cut in Venice section, which supports African and Middle Eastern films in post-production, Hind Bensari’s project “Out of School” (La Cour des Grands) will also be presented.
Adding to the momentum, Maryam Touzani’s “Calle Málaga” will have its world premiere in the Spotlight Section, further cementing Morocco’s presence at this year’s festival.
The CCM has set up a dedicated Moroccan pavilion within the film market and will host three panels exploring strategic themes covering cash rebates and incentives, the co-production process, and Moroccan animation’s impact on global imagination.
The 82nd edition of the Venice Film Festival opened Wednesday evening, welcoming global cinema icons including George Clooney, Julia Roberts, Werner Herzog, Paolo Sorrentino, and the legendary Francis Ford Coppola.
