FIFM 2025: Marrakech Becomes the Global Capital of Cinema and a Stage for International Glamour
Marrakech lights up once again to host the 22nd edition of the Marrakech International Film Festival (FIFM), held from November 28 to December 6. True to its prestige, the ochre city transforms into an open stage for world cinema, blending elegance, cultural diversity and artistic excitement.
A festival that confirms Morocco as a major player in the 7th art
For more than twenty years, the FIFM has established itself as an essential event where the biggest names in cinema meet emerging talents. Under the presidency of HRH Prince Moulay Rachid, the festival continues to promote Morocco on the international cinematographic scene, while offering a unique platform to new voices from the Arab world and Africa.
Atlas Programs: a strategic springboard for young talent
This edition marks the launch of the Atlas Programs, bringing together workshops, a creative incubator, a press area and professional meetings. The objective is clear: to support creators from the continent and the region, from writing to distribution, including criticism and production. The Atlas Distribution Meetings, which bring together 60 professionals from three continents, further strengthen the structuring role of the festival in the circulation of works.
Four prestigious tributes
The FIFM 2025 will honor four major figures of world cinema:
- Raouya, an icon of Moroccan cinema
- Jodie Foster, the twice Oscar-winning American actress
- Guillermo del Toro, master of fantasy
- Hussein Fahmy, legend of Egyptian cinema
Their words reflect sincere emotion and strong affection for Marrakech, a city of inspiration and encounters.
An elite jury chaired by Bong Joon Ho
South Korean filmmaker Bong Joon Ho, director of the cult film Parasite, chairs a jury composed of artists with diverse backgrounds: Karim Aïnouz, Hakim Belabbes, Julia Ducournau, Payman Maadi, Jenna Ortega, Céline Song and Anya Taylor-Joy. A prestigious ensemble that reflects the international scope of the festival.
82 films, 31 countries and a bold competition
The 2025 selection will present 82 films from 31 countries. The official competition includes 14 first and second feature films, reflecting a young, committed and creative cinema. Several world premieres and films in the running for the 2026 Oscars will be screened in Marrakech.
The “Conversations with…” program, a signature element of the FIFM, will allow audiences to engage directly with outstanding figures including Bong Joon Ho, Guillermo del Toro, Laurence Fishburne, Jodie Foster, Nadine Labaki, Tahar Rahim and others.
A festival confirming Marrakech as a global cultural hub
With its brilliance, ambition and openness to world cinema, the FIFM 2025 is set to be one of the most remarkable editions in recent years. Marrakech, balancing tradition and modernity, continues to shine as an international capital of the 7th art.
Translated from Abderrazzak Boussaid’s French article – le7tv
