The Marrakech Film Festival is underway from November 28 to December 6, 2025, once again transforming the city into a global stage for cinema. This year’s edition is drawing intense attention thanks to its guest list, international jury, and the long-anticipated world premiere of El Sett. From Arab film icons to Hollywood and international auteurs, Marrakech has become a meeting point for the world’s film cultures. Here are the standout names making headlines this year.
Jenna Ortega
Jenna Ortega arrived in Marrakech as part of the Marrakech Film festival’s international jury, marking another major milestone in her career. Best known for Wednesday and a string of recent film and television roles, Ortega has quickly become one of the most recognizable young names in Hollywood.
On the red carpet, she wore a custom silver gown by Dolce & Gabbana, finished with a delicate golden crucifix that brought the entire look together. The styling was sleek and minimal, allowing the dress to shine while keeping the mood quietly dramatic and refined.
Anya Taylor-Joy
Anya Taylor-Joy was also among the international A-listers in the jury, further confirming Marrakech’s growing pull among global stars. Known for The Queen’s Gambit and her expanding filmography, she continues to build a career that balances artistic ambition with mainstream appeal.
On the carpet, she wore a dreamy chartreuse strapless gown that felt almost otherworldly. The floral trim along the neckline added a soft romantic edge, while the long pleated skirt created flow and movement with every step. It was elegant, dramatic, and bold all at once.
Nadine Labaki
Nadine Labaki, the Oscar-nominated filmmaker behind Capernaum, remains one of the most powerful voices in contemporary Arab cinema, celebrated for telling stories that confront injustice with honesty and heart.
She stepped out onto the Marrakech Film Festival’s red carpet in Alexander McQueen with unmistakable confidence. The cropped tux-style jacket, the sequined panel, and the crisp white shirt came together in a look that balanced authority with glamour. With razor-sharp tailoring and perfectly considered details, it was a commanding, self-assured moment from a filmmaker who knows exactly how to own her space—on screen and off.
Yousra
Yousra delivered one of the festival’s most touching moments when she presented the honorary award to Hussein Fahmy. A defining figure in Egyptian cinema, she brought warmth and meaning to the ceremony, representing both the history and continuity of Arab film.
She arrived in a classic black gown with delicate beading that caught the light just right. The silhouette was simple and timeless, allowing the subtle shimmer to do the talking—it was understated glamour at its most elegant and effortless.
Jodie Foster
The Marrakech Film Festival also paid tribute to Jodie Foster with the Golden Star Award, one of Hollywood’s most respected actors and directors.
From Taxi Driver to The Silence of the Lambs, Foster’s career has been defined by fearless performances and long-term excellence. Honoring her in Marrakech reflects the festival’s ongoing ambition to celebrate not just stars—but legends.
Bong Joon-ho
The festival also welcomed Bong Joon-ho, the Oscar-winning director behind Parasite. His presence highlights the festival’s growing relevance well beyond red carpets and celebrity, positioning it as a serious space for world cinema and major filmmakers.
Hussein Fahmy
Hussein Fahmy was honored with the Golden Star in recognition of a career that has spanned decades and left a lasting imprint on Egyptian and Arab cinema. With an extensive body of work across film and television, he remains one of the most respected screen figures in the region.
During his tribute, Fahmy also reflected briefly on his long relationship with the festival, sharing that he attended its very first edition and returned many times since. He also revealed that one of his earliest films, My Blood, My Tears, and My Smile, starring Naglaa Fathi, had been shot in Marrakech.
Final Word
This year’s Marrakech International Film Festival feels less like a series of events and more like a gathering of cinema worlds colliding. With Arab legends being honored, Hollywood names walking the carpet, and international auteurs in attendance, Marrakech continues to prove it is not just hosting global cinema—but shaping its conversation.
WE SAID THIS: Don’t Miss…The Egyptian Films Stepping into the Spotlight at CIFF 2025