Morocco Continues Movie Odyssey: ‘We Are a Country of Stories’

Variety

by Leo Barraclough

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Morocco’s film industry is experiencing a significant transformation, solidifying its position as a rising hub for global cinema. Over the past few years, the country has seen a surge in both local and international productions, driven by tax incentives, strategic infrastructure, and a renewed focus on fostering talent. In 2018, Morocco introduced a 30% tax credit, which has attracted major filmmakers like Christopher Nolan (whose *The Odyssey* was shot in the country) and Oliver Laxe (*Sirāt*). This shift has not only boosted foreign productions but also revitalized domestic filmmaking, with local output increasing from just four films per year at the turn of the millennium to 54 in 2023. The Marrakech Film Festival played a pivotal role in this growth by launching the Atlas Workshops in 2018. These workshops have since supported over 150 projects and helped launch the careers of emerging filmmakers, such as Asmae El Moudir, whose *The Mother of All Lies* became a critically acclaimed hit. Additionally, Morocco’s natural landscapes and production facilities have made it an attractive destination for international shoots, generating significant local investment—over $165 million in 2025 alone. Morocco is now looking outward, with initiatives like the Venice Production Bridge and this year’s EFM (European Film Market) showcasing its filmmakers on the global stage. The Moroccan Cinematographic Center (CCM) is leading this push, bringing 10 producers to Berlin to connect with international markets. This focus on scaling up production is essential, as Morocco aims to move beyond isolated successes and establish itself as a consistent player in the global film industry. The country’s ambitions also extend to training and collaboration. Film schools and professional programs are expanding, while efforts to engage the Moroccan diaspora aim to inject fresh perspectives into local storytelling. As CCM director Mohammed Reda Benjelloun notes, Morocco’s goal is to “internationalize the production process, but not

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Originally published on Variety on 2/14/2026