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Raba – The Marrakech International Film Festival will pay tribute to four major film figures during its 22nd edition, including American actress and director Jodie Foster, Mexican filmmaker Guillermo del Toro, Moroccan actress Raouya, and Egyptian actor Hussein Fahmi.
For over two decades, the festival has celebrated artists who embody the power of cinema to bring people together, move audiences, and inspire creativity, organizers said in a press release. This year’s honorees represent the richness and diversity of world cinema, from Hollywood to North Africa and the Arab world.
Jodie Foster began acting as a child and has built a remarkable career spanning more than 50 years. She has won two Academy Awards for her performances in “The Accused” as well as “The Silence of the Lambs”. Foster is also an acclaimed director, known for her thoughtful and powerful storytelling.
“What an honor to discover your beautiful city of Marrakech and to celebrate film at the same time,” Foster said. “I can’t wait to experience the historic sites, gardens, and markets, to walk alongside new friends, colleagues, and movie lovers.”
Meanwhile, Mexican director Guillermo del Toro is famous for creating poetic worlds where monsters and humans share the screen with equal beauty and sadness, says the statement. He is the winner of three Oscars, including for “The Shape of Water” and “Pinocchio”.
“Since my previous visit, both the festival and the city have always been so welcoming to me. I’m especially honored to receive a tribute, and to show the audience my most personal work, Frankenstein,” del Toro said.
Known by her fame name Raouya, Fatima Harandi is one of Morocco’s most beloved actresses. From theater to film, she has worked with leading Moroccan directors such as Narjiss Nejjar, Nour-Eddine Lakhmari, and Laïla Marrakchi. Her performances, including in “Les Yeux Secs” and “A Mile in My Shoes”, have earned her awards and national recognition.
“What an immense honor it is to receive this invitation to the Marrakech International Film Festival. What joy and emotion to be celebrated in my own country, in the ochre city, at one of its largest film events,” Raouya stated.
With a career spanning more than five decades, Hussein Fahmi is one of Egypt’s most respected actors. He has appeared in over 100 films and series and served as president of the Cairo International Film Festival. Fahmi is also known for his work promoting culture and dialogue across the Arab world.
“The city of Marrakech has a special place in my heart as one of my earliest films, “Damy wa dmoy wa ebtsamty” (My Blood, My Tears, My Smile) was shot there. Coming back to this joyful city to be honored is a very precious moment,” Fahmi said.
