A Moroccan documentary directed by Aida Bouya and produced by Khalid Dami under MEDIA PRO ASWAT NEWS, entitled “Palace Guardians” received the Grand Prix at the recent Mei International Film Festival in India, that runned between June and Septmber.
This remarkable achievement highlights the film’s significant impact on the international stage and adds to the growing reputation of Moroccan cinema in documentary filmmaking.
‘Palace Guardians’ beat a diverse array of notable documentaries.
Set against the backdrop of Assa Zag and Laayoune, regions steeped in Moroccan heritage, “Palace Guardians” offers an intimate glimpse into the daily lives of palace guards. Supported by the Moroccan Cinematographic Center, the film highlights their traditions and crucial role in preserving Morocco’s cultural heritage.
Through its lens, it provides a profound understanding of the area’s culture and historical significance.
The award is a source of pride for Moroccan cinema, illustrating the country’s creative prowess in documentary filmmaking.
Competing films included “Go Fish” by Indian director Rhea Agarwal, “From One World to Another” by French Guiana’s Jean Marimoto, and “Chhava,” directed by Anurag Srijit and Arman Sheikh from India.
The competition also featured “Buddhism & Sexual Minorities” from South Korea, Richard Philpott’s British film “3rd Eye,” and “Gagan Kumar Morakonda’s” Indian documentary “Beneath This.”
This year, Moroccan movies have shone in international festivals. “The Slave” was awarded the “Cultural Dialogue between Islamic Countries” prize at the Kazan International Film Festival hosted in Tatarstan, Russia; Quitte ou Double, won the grand prize at the Guevara International Film Festival in Cuba; and “Fatima the Unforgettable Sultana,” won the “Grand Prix” at the 3rd Golden FEMI Film Festival in Sofia, Bulgaria.