Marrakech – At the 22nd edition of the Marrakech International Film Festival (FIFM), Moroccan filmmaker Meryam Touzani presented her latest feature, “Calle Málaga.”
The presentation was followed by a highly anticipated screening of the movie that captivated audiences and critics alike.
The event drew a full house eager to watch Touzani’s newest cinematic exploration.
The film centers on Maria Ángeles, a 79-year-old Spanish woman living alone in Tangier, whose life has been quietly shaped by decades spent in her beloved apartment.
The narrative is set into motion when Maria’s daughter, Clara, arrives from Madrid with plans to sell the apartment, forcing Maria to confront the possibility of losing not just her home, but a lifetime of memories.
Against the tumultuous backdrop of Tangier, the film captures the emotional weight of attachment to place, weaving nostalgia and cultural hybridity into a story that reflects on the invisible threads connecting personal history and identity.
Accompanied by her husband, celebrated filmmaker Nabil Ayouch, Touzani spoke to the intricate layers of her storytelling. “Calle Málaga” delves into the complexities of personal relationships against the backdrop of societal challenges, a theme that has consistently marked Touzani’s work.
The director emphasized the personal connection she felt to the story, noting how cinema can bridge intimate experiences and broader social realities.
Nabil Ayouch, a pivotal figure in Moroccan cinema, expressed pride in Touzani’s achievement. Touzani also emphasized the essential role her husband played in bringing the project to life.
“This film couldn’t have been done without Nabil’s support; his guidance, encouragement, and belief in my vision were invaluable,” she added.
“Calle Málaga” is now positioned as one of the standout films of this year’s festival, showcasing Touzani’s ability to navigate complex social and emotional landscapes with subtlety and depth.
The movie has earned international acclaim, winning the Audience Award for Best Narrative Feature at the 48th Denver Film Festival and the Audience Award in the Spotlight category at the 82nd Venice Film Festival.