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Marrakech – This morning at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, the 22nd edition of the Marrakech International Film Festival (FIFM) opened with the presentation of this year’s jury, who gathered to share their thoughts on cinema and the festival’s program.
The session offered a first glimpse into the perspectives of the filmmakers, actors, and artists responsible for awarding the coveted Étoile d’Or.
The jury, chaired by Bong Joon Ho, Oscar-winning director of Parasite, was joined by a diverse ensemble of international talent, including Karim Aïnouz, Julia Ducournau, Hakim Belabbes, Payman Maadi, Jenna Ortega, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Celine Song.
Across generations and continents, the panel embodies the festival’s mission to bring together distinct cinematic voices and foster dialogue between local and global perspectives.
During the session, jury members shared their thoughts on contemporary cinema, the importance of storytelling, and their expectations for the festival.
Bong Joon Ho emphasized Marrakech as “a meeting point where filmmakers from around the world come together to exchange ideas and celebrate creativity.”
Julia Ducournau reflected on the festival’s role in spotlighting emerging voices, while Moroccan filmmaker Hakim Belabbes highlighted the festival’s unique platform for regional cinema to reach an international audience.
Jury members also commended the daring spirit of a new generation of filmmakers, noting how young directors are pushing boundaries and exploring narratives that have never been seen on screen before.
Bong Joon Ho commented on their boldness, saying these filmmakers are “redefining storytelling and taking risks that challenge both form and content.”
At one point, the conversation turned to the impact of AI on the film industry. Ducournau described AI as “controversial in the way it’s used,” stressing that it “will not replace human creativity and sensibility.”
Celine Song warned that AI is “colonizing our planet and minds.” Meanwhile, Ortega added that the developments around AI feel like “opening a Pandora’s box,” reflecting caution about the ethical and artistic challenges it presents for the future of cinema.
As the 22nd edition unfolds, Marrakech continues to position itself as a hub for global cinema, providing a space where stories from across the world intersect with Moroccan creativity, culture, and audience engagement.
