The city of Ouarzazate definitely deserves its nickname as the 'City of Cinema'. However, Marrakech has nothing to envy from the Gateway to the South as many filmmakers have fallen for its charms and the variety of its settings. Let's explore some masterpieces made in Marrakech. Photo: DR
The city of Ouarzazate definitely deserves its nickname as the 'City of Cinema'. However, Marrakech has nothing to envy from the Gateway to the South as many filmmakers have fallen for its charms and the variety of its settings. Let's explore some masterpieces made in Marrakech. Photo: DR
The man who knew too much, 1956
The man who knew too much is a crime film by British director Alfred Hitchcock. Unlike the first version, this remake is in color, which is why the city of Marrakech was chosen, known for its rich hues. Mixing suspense, intrigue, and chase scenes, the movie includes numerous sequences shot in the medina, at Bab Doukkala, and especially in the middle of Jemaa el Fna square. One of the legendary scenes of this masterpiece is undoubtedly the song 'Que sera, sera', performed by the stunning Doris Day in one of the suites at the La Mamounia palace. This song went on to win an Oscar for Best Song.
The mummy, 1999
Written and directed by Stephen Sommers, The mummy is a fantasy adventure film recounting the fictional story of a cursed Egyptian priest, resurrected by archaeologists during the 1920s. Lead actors Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz teamed up in Marrakech instead of Cairo due to the tense political climate in Egypt. Consequently, the scenes representing the Egyptian desert were filmed in the Moroccan Sahara, near the city of Erfoud.
Alexander, 2004
Directed by Oliver Stone, known for the famous musical documentary The Doors, Alexander is a biopic tracing the life of the Macedonian king, one of antiquity's most famous figures. Filmed in Morocco and Thailand for the outdoor scenes, this epic features an impressive cast including Anthony Hopkins, Colin Farrell, Angelina Jolie, Val Kilmer, and Jared Leto. For the shoot in Marrakech, two large warehouses in the industrial area were converted into workshops for making props: furniture, pottery, statues, musical instruments, fabrics, lamps, decorative items, etc.
Prince of Persia: The sands of time, 2010
Directed by Mike Newell, 'Prince of Persia: The sands of time' is a film adaptation of the successful video game of the same name. This action film explores the adventures of Prince Dastan, played by American actor Jake Gyllenhaal. The production team found Marrakech an ideal location with geographical diversity meeting the film's needs. Thus, filming began in 2008 in a small village nestled in the Oukaïmeden mountains, requiring the work of 20 construction workers to build a road making this remote village accessible. The scenes depicting the Iranian valley, Alamut, were spread over several areas around the ochre city, notably Tamesloht and the Agafay desert.
Mahi Binebine's exhibition "Silent Elevations" has been extended until May 20 at the Mandarin Oriental. This event is a must-see for lovers of contemporary Moroccan art and those who want to explore a unique blend of sculpture and painting.
Ramadan is a time for shared moments, and Marrakech offers many exceptional places to break the fast with family or friends. Here is a selection of establishments where you can enjoy a memorable ftour in Marrakech during the holy month.
In Marrakech, graffiti artists and other street artists have not only made a splash in galleries over the past few years but have also taken to the streets. This is largely thanks to the Marrakech Biennale and the 'Liberty Wall' initiative, which have allowed them to establish their presence and tap into their creative freedom. While waiting to welcome travelers again, the team at Made in Marrakech invites you to explore Marrakech's vibrant street art scene through 10 images. Photo: DR
At the gates of Marrakech, the mineral-rich Agafay desert has become 'the place to be.' Far from the city's hustle, at the foot of the Atlas mountain range, it’s the perfect spot to recharge for a day or more. Our team reveals our four favorite picks! Photo: Be Agafay
Once the workday ends, we only have a few hours left to meet up with friends and enjoy some much-needed downtime at an afterwork gathering. Whether they are new hotspots or must-visit places in the ochre city, Made in Marrakech shares its current favorite spots.
Looking to escape your daily routine, soak up nature, see the sea and feel the sea spray, hike in the mountains and breathe in the fresh air, or simply discover a different atmosphere... The areas around Marrakesh are incredibly diverse! While staying in Morocco, Made in Marrakesh suggests ten getaways accessible by car or plane, thanks to new flight routes, all within three hours. So, what are you up to this weekend? Photo: Samuel C