Moroccan short film the MOON :
The short film "The Moon," produced by Moroccan Amazigh filmmakers, secured the prestigious third prize in the Cinéville Film Schools Short Film Competition at the renowned Cannes Film Festival. This esteemed accolade was fiercely contested by nearly two thousand artistic projects from various corners of the globe.
Zineb Wakreim, the talented Moroccan director, joyfully announced her film's triumph through her official Facebook account, expressing immense pride in Morocco's exceptional achievement.
Renowned Moroccan critic and journalist, Bilal Mermid, highlighted that Zainab Wakreim's victory came amidst tough competition that involved prominent international film schools. Mermid further praised her outstanding representation of the esteemed Higher School of Visual Arts in Marrakech.
Emphasizing the significance of this achievement, Mermid stated:
"This triumph affirms that Morocco possesses an abundance of talent in this domain, underscoring the importance of believing in the capabilities of young individuals rather than relying solely on those who may be incapable of fostering creativity."
The suffering of the children of the moon:
The film portrays the journey of Samad and Hasnaa, belonging to two Amazigh families, who share a common health condition known as "Children of the Moon," which manifests as a severe sensitivity to sunlight. Wakrim masterfully captures the protagonists' plight in a deeply human manner.
In statements to the local press, Wakreem expressed her satisfaction with her film being selected for the competition, considering it as a validation of her artistic path, particularly as a recent graduate of the Higher School of Visual Arts. Attending the festival was a crowning achievement for her, and she hoped that the film would elicit a positive response regarding the issue it addresses.
She highlighted that the film's title, "Moon," was chosen to reflect her Amazigh culture, as she herself hails from the Tafroat region in southern Morocco, which serves as a common thread connecting the two children depicted in the film. Wakreem explained that the choice of "moon" in the title would draw more attention compared to "children of the moon."
The young director shared her excitement about the film's concept, which was sparked by her viewing of "The Black House," a film by Iranian poet Forough Farrokhzad that delves into the lives of leprosy patients in 1960s Iran. This experience inspired Wakreem to explore the journey of the "Children of the Moon," who exhibit resilience and hold onto hope in the face of adversity.
The Moon: Dreams Unveiled.
The film "Moon" follows the intertwined lives of Samad and Hasnaa, two young individuals hailing from separate Amazigh families but bound together by a shared condition known as "Children of the Moon." This condition causes severe sensitivity to sunlight, presenting them with numerous challenges and limitations in their daily lives.
As the story unfolds, we witness the struggles and triumphs of Samad and Hasnaa as they navigate a world that seems to be designed against them. The film delves into their personal journeys, exploring their dreams, aspirations, and the profound resilience they possess in the face of adversity.
Samad, a talented musician, dreams of sharing his melodies with the world but finds himself confined to the shadows, unable to embrace the spotlight he so passionately craves. Hasnaa, an aspiring artist, yearns to express herself through vibrant colors and forms but is restricted to the safety of dimly lit spaces.
Despite the challenges they face, Samad and Hasnaa find solace in their shared experiences, forging a deep bond of understanding and companionship. Together, they embark on a quest to challenge societal norms, break free from the constraints of their condition, and reclaim their rightful place in a world that often fails to recognize their worth.
The film beautifully captures the unique cultural landscape of the Amazigh community, infusing the narrative with elements of their rich traditions, vibrant folklore, and a profound connection to nature. Through poetic visuals and evocative storytelling, "Ayur" transports viewers to the enchanting landscapes of the Tafroat region, immersing them in the beauty and resilience of the Amazigh culture.
As the story reaches its climax, Samad and Hasnaa find themselves standing at a crossroads, confronted with a choice that will shape their destinies. Will they succumb to the limitations imposed by their condition, or will they summon the strength to defy expectations and carve out their own paths?
"Moon" ultimately serves as a poignant exploration of the human spirit, highlighting the universal themes of perseverance, identity, and the power of dreams. Through the lens of Samad and Hasnaa's journey, the film invites viewers to reflect on their own lives, questioning the barriers they face and the possibilities that lie beyond them.
With its heartfelt storytelling, captivating performances, and an emotionally resonant narrative, "Moon" touches the hearts of audiences, leaving them inspired to embrace their own uniqueness and find hope in even the most challenging circumstances.
