Accompanied by Oscar-winning actress Charlize Theron and executive producers Thomas Hayslip and Zakaria Alaoui, Nolan chose Morocco as the backdrop for his cinematic vision, with key scenes being filmed in Ouarzazate and the majestic region of Dakhla. This collaboration reflects ongoing efforts by the Ministry to position the Kingdom as a premier destination for global cinema.
During the meeting, Minister Bensaïd praised Nolan’s decision to shoot in Morocco, describing it as a tribute to local expertise, the country’s rich and varied landscapes, its stability, and Morocco’s commitment to supporting major international productions. He also emphasized the importance of such collaborations in generating jobs, developing national skills, and showcasing the Kingdom’s extraordinary cultural and natural heritage.
The Minister recalled that this momentum is part of a national strategy to establish Morocco as a cinematic hub for Africa and the Mediterranean. The initiative builds on the successes of Ouarzazate — fittingly nicknamed the “Hollywood of Africa” — and now extends to Dakhla, an emerging star on the international film scene.
For his part, Christopher Nolan said he was impressed by the quality of Moroccan infrastructure, the responsiveness of local crews, and the striking beauty of the natural landscapes. He expressed gratitude to the Moroccan authorities for their unwavering support, stating that Morocco is not just a setting, but a character in its own right within his film.
The meeting between Mehdi Bensaïd and Christopher Nolan marks a significant milestone in Morocco’s cultural outreach on the global stage. It also reaffirms the relevance of the Royal Vision that considers culture and artistic creation as key drivers of sustainable development and of the Kingdom’s global influence.
Editorial team/le7tv