Marrakech – Maryam Touzani’s latest film, “Calle Málaga,” has been selected as Morocco’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2026 Academy Awards.
The decision was made by a commission from the Moroccan Cinematographic Centre (CCM). It was led by Tariq Khalami and comprised notable filmmakers and producers, including Zakia Tahiri, Selma Bargach, Mariem Lee Abounoum, Mohamed Alaoui, Adil Fadili, and festival director Ahmed Housni.
The unanimous choice was based on the film’s compelling themes, technical excellence, and strong distribution prospects.
“Calle Málaga” tells the poignant story of Maria Angeles, a 79-year-old Spanish woman living alone in Tangier. Her life is upended when her daughter arrives from Madrid with plans to sell the apartment that has been her home for decades.
Determined to stay, Maria Angeles fights to preserve her home and the memories it holds.
The film had its world premiere in the Venice Spotlight section at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on August 29, where it won the Audience Award. It is set to be released in France on March 16 of next year.
Born in Tangier, Morocco, in 1980, Maryam Touzani began her career as a film critic before transitioning to filmmaking. She studied journalism in London and returned to Morocco to work in cultural journalism.
Touzani made her directorial debut with the short film “Quand ils dorment” in 2011, which won 17 awards, including the Special Jury Prize at the Huesca International Film Festival.
Her first feature film, Adam (2019), was selected for the Cannes Film Festival’s Un Certain Regard section and was Morocco’s entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 92nd Academy Awards.
Her subsequent film, “The Blue Caftan” (2022) also garnered international acclaim and was Morocco’s submission for the 95th Academy Awards.
With “Calle Málaga,” she continues to captivate audiences with her storytelling prowess and commitment to addressing poignant social issues.
