The Marrakech International Film Festival announced today, Thursday, the members of the jury for its 21st edition, which will take place from November 29 to December 7, 2024.
According to the festival’s statement, the jury comprises nine members from nine different countries across five continents. Italian director Luca Guadagnino will lead the jury, following Danish director Thomas Vinterberg’s withdrawal due to family reasons.
Luca Guadagnino, known for his distinctive style and exploratory approach, has established himself as a key figure in Italian cinema over the past 15 years, working with acclaimed actors such as Tilda Swinton, Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, and Daniel Craig.
Guadagnino’s works, which span films, documentaries, and series, reflect his deep talent and passion for cinema, especially in themes surrounding youth, with notable films like Call Me by Your Name and A Bigger Splash.
« I’ll never forget my first visit to Marrakech over twenty years ago. This city, where my Algerian mother once lived, holds special significance for me, » he shared.
This year’s jury includes prominent figures: Iranian director Ali Abbasi, Indian filmmaker Zoya Akhtar, American actress Patricia Arquette, Belgian actress Virginie Efira, Australian actor Jacob Elordi, British-American actor Andrew Garfield, Moroccan actress Nadia Kounda, and Argentine director Santiago Mitre.
The competition includes 14 international films, with the Golden Star award set to be presented to the winning film at the closing ceremony on December 7. Last year’s jury, led by Jessica Chastain, awarded the Golden Star to The White Lie by Moroccan director Asmae El Moudir.
