Rabat, Morocco — Renowned South Korean filmmaker Bong Joon Ho will lead the jury at the 22nd Marrakech International Film Festival, taking place from November 28 to December 6. This event is celebrated for showcasing innovative storytelling and highlighting emerging talent from around the globe.
The jury will present the prestigious Étoile d’Or to one of the 14 feature films selected for the festival’s international competition, which focuses on the debut and sophomore offerings from directors worldwide.
In a statement following his appointment, Bong expressed his excitement about participating in the festival, emphasizing Marrakech’s long-standing commitment to promoting fresh and artistic cinema. He looks forward to engaging with audiences and fostering a deeper appreciation for the cinematic arts.
Bong Joon Ho has gained acclaim as one of the leading voices in contemporary film. His unique storytelling approach often challenges conventional genres while tackling complex social issues. With his breakout feature “Parasite,” he made history as the first director of a non-English film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. This achievement underscored his ability to interweave local narratives with broader, universal themes.
His filmography leaves a remarkable impact: “Memories of Murder” examines an unsolved crime amid authoritarianism; “The Host” reinvents the monster genre while scrutinizing familial and governmental failings; “Mother” explores the extremities of love; “Snowpiercer” depicts survival on a class-divided train; “Okja” follows a child’s battle against corporate greed; and “Parasite” deconstructs the myths of class ascension with precision.
Bong’s latest work, “Mickey 17,” continues to delve into themes of human vulnerability and strength within a science-fiction framework.
The Morocco-based festival, now in its third decade, has become a significant hub for filmmakers from around the world. Bong’s role as jury president enhances the festival’s mission to spark discussions on the essence of cinema, providing Moroccan and global audiences a rare opportunity to engage with a filmmaker whose influence extends well beyond traditional cinematic boundaries.
This year marks a significant moment for Bong, evidenced by the recent opening of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, featuring “Director’s Inspiration: Bong Joon Ho.” This exhibition, running until 2027, is the first substantial showcase dedicated to his body of work.
The collaboration between Bong Joon Ho and the Marrakech festival represents a meeting of minds — a city that has evolved into a vital junction for global cinema and a filmmaker whose creative vision continues to transform the industry.
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