Atlas Workshops to showcase 30 film projects

The ninth edition of the Atlas Workshops, part of the Marrakech International Film Festival, will present 30 film projects and films from 14 countries. These were selected from 410 submissions, highlighting a wide range of international participation in the event.

Event highlights development and production stages

The workshops will feature ten productions or co-productions with European partners at the development stage, and ten at the shooting or post-production stage. This mix aims to support both early and later stages of film creation.

Established and emerging filmmakers represented

Hedi Zardi, head of the Atlas Workshops, emphasized the event’s goal to balance established and emerging filmmakers. Selected projects include A Beautiful Land to Die by Amjad Abu Alala and The Sleepers by Sophia Alaoui, alongside newcomers like Sarra Ryma with Algiers Haze and Gael Camilandi with The Zebra's Shadow.

Post-production projects supported earlier

Four projects currently in post-production were supported by the Atlas Workshops at the development stage. These include Wolfmother by Ismael El Iraki and Season of the Weary King by Samuel Ishimwe, showing the program’s long-term commitment to film development.

Brazilian director to lead event

The Atlas Workshops will be under the patronage of Brazilian director Kleber Mendonça Filho, who will engage with filmmakers. Additional programs include Atlas Close-Ups, focusing on Moroccan filmmakers, and Atlas Station, showcasing Moroccan producers and short films in post-production.

Atlas Programs support regional cinema

The Atlas Programs, initiated in 2018, support Moroccan, Arab, and African cinema. Selected projects in development and production include America Is Behind the Door by Laila Abbas and Eldorado by Alaa Eddine Aljem, reflecting the program’s ongoing role in regional film development.

Distribution meetings aim to expand reach

The Atlas Distribution Meetings aim to enhance film distribution among African, Arab, and European distributors, helping to connect creators with international audiences and markets.