Rabat – Morocco’s Ifrane and Azrou near Fez are promising Cinema enthusiasts to experience a not-to-miss three-day journey as part of the 24th International Cedar Short Film Festival.

The festival, which will take place on August 10-13, is organized by the Screen Club Association for Children and Youth to celebrate the theme “Diversity and Difference in Cinema.”

“This significant artistic occasion aims to add fresh perspectives to the cinematic landscape in the areas of directing, producing, and scriptwriting, while simultaneously promoting cinematic culture,” the organizers said in a press release, stressing that Ifrane and Azrou are gearing up to turn into “creative hubs” attracting scriptwriters from across the world.

The event also seeks to serve as a “fertile training ground for young cinema professionals from all around the globe,” pledged the organizers in their statement.

“Residents of the region and lovers of mountain tourism are set to indulge in captivating entertainment, promising thrilling encounters with the silver screen,” the organizers added, promising attendees “riveting experiences throughout the festival days.”

The festival received over 124 short films from production institutions and directors from various countries around the world. 

However, only 30 films will participate in the coveted Cedar Gold competition. The official flyer of the festival

“The selection is based on a range of criteria, including genre approach, diversity in viewing, vision, artistic plot, aesthetic taste, and depth of meaning. This process aims to satisfy all tastes and respond to the festival’s guests and cinema lovers,” the organizers explained.

A collection of short films will enter the competition for the prize under a judging panel of the Golden Cedar for International Films competition. Cinema director Fouad Souiba will lead the panel along with Fatima Al-Ifriki, Sanaa Ghouati, as well journalist Nadia Abram, and Spanish director Jordi Calvet. 

“These films will contend in a vibrant showcase of talent, storytelling, and cinematic prowess,” the organizers said.

As for the scriptwriting competition, a specialized committee led by Abdelilah Hamdouchi will determine the winners alongside screenwriter Meryem Fergi and Iraqi writer and director Mohammed Tawfik. 

“This competition aims to recognize and celebrate the art of storytelling in its most raw and powerful form,” the organizers concluded.