Press release

Casablanca, Morocco — May 2026 — Casablanca will host the 5th edition of the International Independent Film Festival from May 1 to 6, 2026, reaffirming its position as a growing hub for cinematic innovation and cultural exchange in the region.
The festival will take place across several key cultural venues, including the Mohammed Zefzaf Cultural Complex in Maârif, the American Arts Center, and the Faculty of Letters and Human Sciences in Mohammedia, part of Hassan II University of Casablanca.
Now in its fifth edition, the festival continues to promote cinema as a space for critical inquiry and artistic expression, while encouraging audiences to engage with diverse and thought-provoking perspectives.
A Diverse and International Program
The official program will feature a rich selection of screenings, discussions, and professional development initiatives. The international feature film competition will present works from 14 countries, offering a compelling overview of contemporary filmmaking practices from around the world.
The international short film competition, with entries from 20 countries, will highlight the creative vitality of short-form storytelling and its role as a laboratory for new cinematic languages.
A dedicated documentary section will showcase films addressing pressing social, cultural, and human issues. Special emphasis will be placed on youth productions and school films, supporting the next generation of filmmakers and encouraging early engagement with the cinematic arts.
Moroccan cinema will also be prominently featured through a “Panorama of Moroccan Cinema,” presenting a curated selection of recent national productions.
Intellectual Engagement and Artistic Dialogue
Beyond screenings, the festival will host an international symposium dedicated to Jean-Luc Godard, a seminal figure in modern cinema, exploring his contributions to film language and his lasting global influence.
A masterclass on anthropological documentary filmmaking will be organized as part of the “Casa Lab” program, providing a platform for knowledge exchange and professional development.
The program will also include a photography exhibition titled “Weaving Existence”, as well as a special evening dedicated to the poetic image in cinema, bringing together poets and filmmakers in a cross-disciplinary dialogue.
Tributes and Recognition
The festival will pay tribute to prominent figures who have shaped the Moroccan cinematic landscape. A dedicated “Presence” section will further highlight influential personalities from the academic and artistic communities.
Institutional Support
The 5th International Independent Film Festival is organized with the support of key institutional partners, including the Moroccan Cinematographic Center, the Maârif District Council, and the Faculty of Letters and Human Sciences in Mohammedia (Hassan II University of Casablanca).