Ahmed Helmy and Hend Sabri Share the Screen at Marrakech
The Marrakech International Film Festival has unveiled its exciting program for the 23rd edition, scheduled to take place from November 20 to 28, 2026. This year’s festival will feature an impressive lineup of 76 films from 39 different countries, including ten works that will have their global premiere at the event. The official competition will present 14 films, representing the debut or second works of their directors, all vying for the coveted Golden Star. The jury will be chaired by renowned French actress Marion Cotillard.
Among the notable entries from the Arab world are "Time of Siege" by Abdullah Al-Khatib, "Rage" by Rami Qadi, and "In the Shadows of Cairo" by Rani and Salem Musallaha. The festival will also host the world premiere of the Egyptian film "The Weakest of Creation" directed by Omar Hilal, marking the first cinematic collaboration between Ahmed Helmy and Hend Sabri. Other anticipated films include "Leila and the Night" by Felipe Barbosa, "Paper Tiger" by James Gray, and "Artificial" by Luca Guadagnino.
Exploring New Horizons in Cinema
The festival will spotlight influential directors in its “Horizons” section, featuring works by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, Cristian Mungiu, and Hirokazu Kore-eda, alongside the Egyptian film "Safe Exit" by Mohamed Hamad, the Yemeni film "The Station" by Sarah Ishaq, and the Palestinian documentary "Citizen Osama" by Ahmed Hassouna. Additionally, the program includes the “Eleventh Continent” section, a panorama of Moroccan cinema, as well as family and children’s films, with a total of 11 Moroccan films being showcased.
Screenings will take place at the Conference Palace, Colisée Cinema, and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, promising a vibrant celebration of cinematic art in the beautiful city of Marrakech.
As reported by elaph.com.
