The vibrant city of Marrakech, Morocco, is gearing up for a stellar cinematic showcase as the Marrakech International Film Festival proudly unveils the exceptional group of global film luminaries who will comprise its 2026 jury. Joining previously announced jury president and Oscar-winning French icon Marion Cotillard, this elite assembly brings together diverse cultural perspectives, artistic excellence, and boundary-pushing storytelling to the heart of North Africa.
An International Lineup of Cinematic Excellence in Morocco
For its 23rd edition, the prestigious Moroccan festival has curated an eclectic and powerful jury. The panel features Danish actor Claes Bang, Luxembourgish powerhouse Vicky Krieps, Franco-British star Emma Mackey, celebrated French actor and director Gilles Lellouche, Oscar-nominated Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania, acclaimed British director Andrew Haigh, Franco-Senegalese visionary Ramata-Toulaye Sy, and accomplished Moroccan writer, director, and producer Saïd Hamich Benlarbi.
Together, this prestigious collective will shoulder the responsibility of evaluating the festival's official competition entries. Dedicated exclusively to first and second feature films, the competition serves as a vital global platform for emerging cinematic voices, granting them international exposure and connecting them with passionate audiences in Morocco and beyond. Past editions have celebrated critical masterpieces such as Erige Sehiri’s Promised Sky, Scandar Copti’s Happy Holidays, and Asmae El Moudir’s groundbreaking documentary The Mother of all Lies.
Celebrating Diverse Voices and Global Perspectives
The 2026 jury reflects the festival's ongoing commitment to artistic pluralism. From Claes Bang’s intense dramatic performances in European cinema to Vicky Krieps’ mesmerizing portrayals in acclaimed international features, the panel boasts unmatched acting pedigree. They are joined by Emma Mackey, whose breakout roles in television and blockbuster cinema have captured global attention, and Gilles Lellouche, a powerhouse of French acting and directing.
Crucially, the jury features visionary directors whose work redefines contemporary storytelling. Kaouther Ben Hania continues to blur the lines between documentary and fiction with profound emotional resonance, while Andrew Haigh explores intimacy with rare sensitivity. Ramata-Toulaye Sy brings a touch of magical realism, and local Moroccan talent Saïd Hamich Benlarbi offers invaluable insight, having competed in the festival's previous iterations with his second feature film, Across the Sea.
Running from November 20 to 28, the festival will culminate in a glamorous closing ceremony where the winners of the coveted Étoile d’Or will be revealed, cementing Morocco's status as a premier global hub for cinematic arts and international cultural exchange.
As reported by deadline.com.
