Notes on the SOAS Middle East Institute Event: Moroccan Cinema Uncut

Introduction

• Event hosted by the SOAS Middle East Institute.
• Co-chairs: Dina Matar (Center for Palestine Studies) and Nargis Farzad (Chair of the Center for Iranian Studies).
• Panelists include:
  • Florian Lawrence Martin (Goucher University, French transnational studies)
  • Professor William Hughes (Exeter University, Film Studies)
  • Jamal Bahmad (Muhammad V University, Rabat, Morocco).
• Discussion focused on Moroccan cinema and the collaborative project "Moroccan Cinema Uncut."

Overview of Moroccan Cinema

• Moroccan cinema has seen significant growth since the mid-1990s.
• Increase in production from 2-3 films/year in late 1980s to about 25-30 films/year in mid-2010s.
• Morocco is now one of the largest film producers in Africa.
• Challenges include a crisis in distribution and exhibition; limited international visibility despite increased production.

Research Project Objectives

• Aim to analyze the Moroccan film industry as a case study for small nation cinemas.
• Utilized a transnational approach to explore:
  • The dynamic between national and transnational cinema.
  • The relationship between local filmmakers and diasporic filmmakers.
  • Opportunities for film distribution through international film festivals and digital means.

Structure of the Book "Moroccan Cinema Uncut"

• The book is divided into three parts:
  1. Production from Above: Established production hubs and models of international co-production.
  2. Cinema from Below: Filmmakers working outside traditional systems and emerging film education opportunities.
  3. Distribution Networks: Examines audience reach, festivals, and challenges posed by digital disruption.

Theoretical Framework

• Transition from post-colonial to transnational cinema.
• Current filmmakers born after colonial rule focus on neoliberal globalization's impact.
• Shift from reliance on French funding to a wider network of international funding sources.

Key Themes Discussed by Panelists

William Hughes: Transnational Reach

• Importance of international co-production for Moroccan filmmakers.
• Challenges in reaching both domestic and international audiences.
• Growing significance of digital distribution networks.
• Need for filmmakers to navigate international film festivals for outreach.

Florian Lawrence Martin: Diverse Voices in Cinema

• Focus on marginalized groups: Jewish, Amazigh, and women filmmakers.
• Notable works include those of Yasmin Kassari and Tala Hadid.
• Emergence of women filmmakers negotiating within and circumventing traditional systems.

Jamal Bahmad: Audience and Visibility

• Decline in cinema theaters from 300 in the 80s to fewer than 30 today.
• Shift of audience to online platforms due to piracy and convenience.
• Digital disruptions impacting film consumption patterns.

Challenges and Opportunities in Moroccan Cinema

• Political censorship and its implications.
• The role of government funding in shaping the filmmaking landscape.
• Emergence of a divided cinematic landscape: filmmakers striving for both local and international recognition.

Conclusion

• Moroccan cinema is evolving, reflecting complex dynamics between national identity, transnational influences, and the interplay of local and global narratives.
• The future of Moroccan cinema may depend on addressing distribution challenges and fostering connections between diverse filmmakers.