In an open dialogue with cinema enthusiasts and Moroccan audiences, acclaimed filmmaker Khammari spoke about his latest film, Casablanca Negra, firmly rejecting the notion that the film carries any kind of “curse.” For him, the work is a reflection of his artistic vision and an invitation for Moroccan viewers to engage with cinema freely, without preconceptions, constraints, or inherited cultural barriers that limit artistic dialogue.
Khammari began by emphasizing the role of national and international festivals—such as the Marrakech and Tangier film festivals—as essential platforms for artistic and cultural exchange. These festivals, he noted, contribute not only to the film industry but also present an opportunity to showcase the real Morocco, far from repetitive clichés or superficial folkloric representations.
“These events allow us to present our stories, our history, and our rich identity, while opening a human conversation about freedom, dreams, and the human condition,” he explained.
The director also discussed the human and creative journey behind the film, which was shot in the forests of the Azrou Mountains. The crew faced challenging natural conditions—from thunderstorms and heavy rains to encounters with wildlife. Yet, Khammari viewed these obstacles as part of the film’s essence, enabling the team to capture nature in a raw, authentic form and present a narrative deeply rooted in personal struggle and inner reconciliation.
In Casablanca Negra, Khammari tackles a major social issue: coexistence with “the other,” particularly African migrants who pass through Morocco in search of a better life. He stressed:
“The film is not only about Morocco or Africa; it is about humanity and the universal problems people face everywhere.”
On casting, Khammari highlighted the importance of balancing emerging talent with seasoned actors. Art, he explained, is a continuous exchange in which each individual gives and receives, allowing shared experience to shape a compelling cinematic dialogue with the audience.
“Cinema is a conversation with viewers. We give, we learn, and together we create an experience that speaks to both emotion and reflection.”
He also addressed the ongoing challenges of Moroccan film production, particularly an overreliance on international partnerships that sometimes attempt to impose their own creative direction:
“Moroccan producers and directors must keep control of the script and the story’s essence. Foreign partners should not reshape our narrative or distort its identity.”
Regarding criticism of the film, Khammari expressed confidence in the Moroccan audience’s intelligence and their ability to grasp deeper messages—even when scenes appear intense or unconventional:
“My mission as a filmmaker is to tell an honest story that reflects society and provokes thought. Cinema is not just entertainment; it documents and questions society.”
In his closing remarks, Khammari urged audiences and artists to immerse themselves in Moroccan creativity—its films, literature, and artistic heritage—free from restrictive stereotypes. For him, authenticity is the foundation of meaningful art, and true success lies not in awards or international recognition but in a film’s ability to spark dialogue and touch viewers on a human level.
“Casablanca Negra is no curse. It is a film that opens a conversation about freedom of expression, dreams, and humanity. The director, the producer, and the audience are all partners in shaping this dialogue.”
