An in-depth analysis of the documentary “The King’s Journey: Morocco of Mohammed VI”: A reading of 25 years of reign by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God protect and preserve him.
On the evening of Saturday, October 12, the French Senate’s public news channel aired a documentary titled “The King’s Journey: Morocco of Mohammed VI”, lasting 52 minutes.
This film, directed by journalists Yves Derai and Michaël Darmon, offers viewers a rare and profound glimpse into King Mohammed VI and his 25 years of reign, drawing on archival footage and testimonies from Moroccan and French political figures who have worked with the king.
The King of Youth and the New Approach
The first chapter of the documentary focuses on Mohammed VI’s ascension to the throne in 1999, following the death of his father, King Hassan II, at the age of 36. The young king, dubbed “The King of Youth,” chose a different approach from his father, showing more humility compared to Hassan II, who was known for his firmness and authority.
This shift raised many questions: How much has Mohammed VI truly been able to transform the monarchy?
The documentary attempts to explore this aspect, offering a portrait of the king away from the public eye, given his frequent absence from the media, where he manages national affairs primarily through royal speeches without media interviews.
Morocco’s Soft Power: The Role of Sports and Culture
Mohammed VI is portrayed as “the modernizing king” who has elevated Morocco on the African and international stage. The documentary highlights major projects such as the Tangier Med port and high-speed rail lines. Yet, it also emphasizes the social gaps that persist despite economic successes, such as the earthquake’s impact on the Atlas region in September 2023.
From “Fi Bladi Dhlamouni” to “Diro l’niya”: The Transformations of Moroccan Society through Music
The film also highlights the role of football in Morocco’s soft power, particularly with the national team’s success in the 2022 World Cup.
Can Morocco continue this trajectory of progress despite the internal and external challenges it faces?
