Melita Toscan du Plantier Discusses the Magic of the Marrakech Festival: 'Where Filmmakers Truly Connect'

At the opening of the 22nd Marrakech International Film Festival, Melita Toscan du Plantier experienced a moment straight out of a film. Walking through the elegant Mamounia Hotel lobby en route to the festivals opening cocktail, she spotted a familiar figure waiting quietly for a car. It really looked like Denis Villeneuve, she recalls. It was indeed the Canadian director, taking a rare break from filming Dune 3 in Morocco. Moments later, Villeneuve became an unexpected guest at the intimate celebration, delighting Bong Joon Ho and the jury, which included Anya Taylor-Joy, Jenna Ortega, Celine Song, Julia Ducournau, Karim Anouz, Hakim Belabbes, and Payman Maadi.

While Villeneuve wont be presiding over the jury next year due to his film schedule, Toscan du Plantier hopes 2027 might be the ideal time. Such surprising encounters have become a hallmark under her leadership, creating moments where filmmakers genuinely connect.

The festival began with Bong Joon Ho, who had committed to leading the jury 18 months in advance. Toscan du Plantier highlights his dedication: He blocked the dates a year and a half ahead and was serious from the start. Bongs presence reflects the longstanding encouragement from festival supporters, including Martin Scorsese, Tilda Swinton, and fellow Korean director Lee Su-jin.

Marrakech continues to serve as both a haven and a platform for filmmakers to watch films, exchange ideas, and learn from each other. This nurturing environment also drives the festivals mentorship programs, from the Atlas Workshops to the new initiative supporting emerging Moroccan producers, including seven women this year. The workshops have helped launch filmmakers such as Asmae El Moudir, whose 2023 documentary The Mother of All Lies premiered at Cannes, won Sydney Film Festivals top prize, and earned Marrakechs first Golden Star for a Moroccan film.

Mentorship extends to established filmmakers as well. Toscan du Plantier shares how, during a previous festival, David Cronenberg joined Alfonso Cuarn and Walter Salles for lunch, sparking spontaneous conversations. This year, Bong Joon Ho met Cristian Mungiu for the first time in Marrakech, highlighting the festivals intimate and collaborative atmosphere.

Among early highlights was a tribute to Jodie Foster, who presented Rebecca Zlotowskis Vie Prive and participated in a 90-minute discussion, sharing anecdotes about working with Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro, her mothers influence, and her evolving views on acting and directing.

Toscan du Plantier has also infused new energy into the jury by including younger voices like Jacob Elordi, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Jenna Ortega, who bring perspectives valuable to the festivals competition films, many created by directors their own age. Jenna writes down every film she hasnt seen, she notes, adding that these jurors help connect the festival to a younger audience while enriching discussions with seasoned directors and actors.

Marrakechs accessibility and supportive environment amplify its impact. The festival is free for the Moroccan public, allowing students and young cinephiles to engage deeply. Programs like the Atlas Workshops accompany Arab, African, and Moroccan filmmakers from development through post-production, offering both guidance and real collaboration.

The festivals international reach continues to grow. Toscan du Plantier highlights her work with Indian director Neeraj Ghaywan on Homebound, Indias Oscar entry, and her support of Ramata-Toulaye Sy on her second film. These projects, combined with her global advocacy for Marrakech, illustrate how the festival fosters cross-cultural exchange and new cinematic voices.

Serendipitous moments, like her chance encounter with Denis Villeneuve in the hotel lobby, showcase the festivals unique atmosphere where renowned filmmakers can interact freely. Although Villeneuve cannot preside next year, Toscan du Plantier hopes he might in 2027.

Through careful curation, mentorship, and creating space for genuine connections, Marrakech has become a vital meeting point for established and emerging filmmakers alike, cultivating creativity, dialogue, and the next generation of cinematic talent.

Author: Jackson Miller