Doha: As part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, the 2024 Ajyal Film Festival, presented by Doha Film Institute, will screen a specially curated showcase of contemporary Moroccan short films that capture the essence of the country’s rich cultural landscape and evolving social fabric. The Made in Morocco programme at Ajyal, presented in partnership with the Marrakech Short Film Festival and Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, will offer audiences a unique glimpse into the creative vibrancy of Morocco’s emerging cinema scene. Following the earlier Made in Qatar screenings at the Marrakech Short Film Festival, Ajyal’s showcase pays tribute to the strong cultural ties between the two nations.
According to Qatar News Agency, Fatma Hassan Al Remaihi, Chief Executive Officer of DFI and Festival Director, emphasized the showcase’s role in bridging worlds and bringing people closer together through cinema. She highlighted how film can share stories, dreams, and challenges that resonate universally, celebratin
g Morocco’s rich cinematic storytelling in Qatar to honor the deep cultural ties and reaffirm a shared commitment to understanding, unity, and friendship through the arts.
The lineup includes several compelling films such as “The Scarecrow” by Anas Zemati, which follows Said and Zineb as they attempt to escape their oppressive reality, and “Why Did You Leave The Horse Alone?” by Faouzi Bensaïdi, a contemplative exploration of decision making in the creative process. “Moon” by Zineb Wakrim tells the story of Hasna and Samad seeking solace in painting, while “What Else Grows on the Palm of Your Hand?” by Dhiaa Biya explores the bond between Hayat and her late grandmother. “Bye Bye Benz Benz” by Mamoun Rtal Bennani and Jules Rouffio captures the legacy of Morocco’s iconic Mercedes taxis, and “Bottles” by Yassine El Idrissi follows a young boy’s journey of compassion and personal conviction.
The Made in Morocco programme will be screened at various festival venues from November 16-23, 2024. Each screening will
be followed by live discussions with the filmmakers in attendance, providing audiences with deeper insights into Morocco’s contemporary cinema landscape and the creative processes behind these compelling works.