Rabat Welcomes the Boujloud Film Fest: A Celebration of Horror and Folklore
This Halloween weekend, the vibrant city of Rabat, Morocco, is set to offer an extraordinary experience that departs from the conventional horror movie marathons commonly associated with the holiday. Instead, the capital is proud to host the Boujloud Film Fest, which officially launches its Prologue 2026 today, October 30. This festival promises an intriguing blend of horror and fantasy films, along with enlightening discussions focusing on the strange and supernatural elements deeply rooted in Moroccan folklore.
The festival takes its name from the celebrated folkloric figure Boujloud, also known as Bilmawen in various regions of Morocco. Traditionally depicted wearing animal skins and masks, Boujloud is integral to cultural celebrations, particularly during Eid al-Adha. The festival seeks to connect this iconic character with the broader themes of monsters, mythology, and the narratives that both fascinate and frighten audiences. By doing so, it paves the way for a unique conversation between Moroccan traditions and the international realm of fantasy cinema.
A Three-Day Exploration of Film and Folklore
Running from October 30 to November 1, the Boujloud Film Fest will be hosted at multiple venues, including ISMAC, Cinéma 7ème Art, and the Tatmin cultural space. The festival showcases an eclectic mix of films, including international features, short films, and documentaries, all designed to provoke thought and spark discussions among filmmakers and audiences alike. Notable screenings include titles such as Reflet dans un diamant mort, Black Zombie, Mārama, and Sicko.
The opening night features Reflet dans un diamant mort, set to begin at 7 PM at ISMAC, and the best part? Admission is free, provided there is available seating, allowing more individuals to partake in this cultural experience without barriers.
This year's event is being introduced as a prologue, laying the foundation for a much larger festival anticipated for 2027. The aim is ambitious: to enhance the visibility of horror and fantasy genres within Morocco, particularly focusing on films that often go unseen in commercial cinemas. With a rich tapestry of myths and supernatural tales embedded in Moroccan culture, the Boujloud Film Fest is a timely initiative that aims to bring these captivating stories to the forefront of cinematic expression.
As reported by lnt.ma.
