Italian
Luca Guadagnino takes the helm at the Marrakech International Film Festival
In an exciting turn of events, acclaimed filmmaker Luca Guadagnino is set to preside over the jury at the Marrakech International Film Festival, stepping in for Thomas Vinterberg, who had to step back due to personal reasons.
A prestigious panel of jurors
Guadagnino won’t be alone; he will be accompanied by a stellar lineup of jurors that reads like a who’s who of international cinema. This impressive assembly includes:
- Ali Abbasi, the visionary Iranian director.
- Renowned Indian filmmaker Zoya Akhtar.
- Oscar-winning American actor Patricia Arquette.
- Celebrated Belgian actor Virginie Efira.
- Rising Australian star Jacob Elordi.
- The dynamic British-American actor Andrew Garfield.
- Talented Moroccan actor Nadia Kounda.
- Acclaimed Argentine director Santiago Mitre.
This diverse and distinguished group promises to bring a wealth of experience and unique perspectives to the judging process.
Guadagnino’s personal connection to Marrakech
For Guadagnino, the festival is more than just a professional engagement; it’s a personal journey. Reflecting on his first encounter with the city, he shared, “I will never forget the first time I arrived in Marrakech: it must’ve been more than 20 years ago when I was a guest of my friend Valentina Cervi, who was on the jury for the short film competition.”
His connection to Morocco runs deep, as his Algerian mother grew up in Casablanca. “The first time I landed in the great city of Marrakech it was because of this amazing festival, and since then, for me, the City and Cinema are indissolubly connected,” he reminisced.
The significance of the festival
The Marrakech International Film Festival holds a unique position in the world of cinema, serving as a bridge between Eastern and Western filmmakers. It offers a platform for showcasing diverse films from around the globe, celebrating both established auteurs and emerging talents.
Guadagnino expressed his excitement, stating, “My Arab DNA is really, really engraved in the amazing powers of the festival of Marrakech. It is a tremendous honor to lead a wonderful jury for the 21st edition—I am thrilled to see all the great movies and meet all the great filmmakers participating this year.”
Guadagnino’s current work
Adding to the buzz, Guadagnino’s latest film “Queer“, featuring Daniel Craig and Drew Starkey, is set to be released in the U.S. on November 27. The film has already garnered significant attention, promising to be another feather in the director’s cap.
The festival’s anticipated highlights
With the festival scheduled to run from November 29 to December 7 in the historic city of Marrakech, anticipation is building. Attendees can look forward to a rich program that includes screenings, panel discussions, and master classes, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and cinematic art.
The presence of such a prestigious jury adds to the allure, as their diverse backgrounds and expertise are sure to create thoughtful and dynamic discussions around the films presented. This year’s festival continues to enhance its reputation as a hub for cinematic excellence and cultural exchange.
A celebration of cinema and culture
The Marrakech International Film Festival is more than an event; it’s a celebration of the magic of movies and their power to transcend cultural barriers. This year’s edition promises to be particularly special, with Guadagnino at the helm, guiding the evaluations with his keen eye for artistry and storytelling.
As the festival draws closer, the excitement is palpable. Film enthusiasts and industry professionals alike are eager to see what this year’s event has in store. From groundbreaking films to insightful conversations, the festival stands as a testament to the enduring power of cinema.
Stay connected with us for more updates on the festival’s lineup, highlights, and behind-the-scenes action. Follow our coverage to experience the magic of Marrakech and the world of films through the eyes of seasoned storytellers and passionate filmmakers.
