UPDATE: The Atlas Workshops 2023, held from November 30 to December 4 in Marrakech, saw filmmakers from across Africa and the MENA region come together for an inspiring week of collaboration and creativity. This year, 28 projects from 12 countries were featured, providing a platform for emerging talent and established voices alike.
Filmmakers reported a transformative experience, highlighting the invaluable connections made during this year’s event. Tanzanian filmmaker Amil Shivji, who has participated three times, emphasized the “solidarity and camaraderie” among creators. His current project, a story about a Maasai boy and a mythical cow, is just one of many innovative narratives showcased.
Among the highlights was Suha Arraf, a Palestinian filmmaker who conducted 23 meetings with major distributors and production companies from Europe, including France and Italy. “Each project gets individual meetings with experts,” Arraf stated, reflecting on the tailored support provided through rigorous consultations.
This year’s Workshops featured over 185 sessions, including 90 individual consultations, focusing on critical aspects such as script consulting and cinematography. Filmmaker Ique Langa from Mozambique, awarded the top development prize for his mystical love story, noted, “The attention given to the script helped me see the film with new clarity.”
The event was organized under the Atlas Programs banner for the first time, with Romanian director Cristian Mungiu serving as the patron. This restructuring aimed to enhance collaboration among filmmakers and industry professionals, creating a vibrant community atmosphere.
Lebanese director Mounia Akl, who is developing her follow-up to a successful debut, expressed, “I couldn’t have imagined a better environment to showcase my work.” Meanwhile, Angolan filmmaker Kamy Lara praised the curated consultancy sessions, stating, “The Atlas Workshop has offered meaningful opportunities for my project’s development.”
Moroccan director Asmae El Moudir described the sessions as “truly magical,” particularly appreciating the support in color grading and poster design. El Moudir’s hybrid documentary, which explores the unique lives of the “Children of the Moon,” highlights the importance of sensitive storytelling in filmmaking.
The Atlas Workshops continue to stand out for their commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a supportive environment. “Atlas knows how to take care of us during this creative process,” El Moudir remarked, capturing the essence of this year’s event.
As the global film community celebrates the achievements of the Atlas Workshops, attention now turns to the upcoming projects that emerged from this dynamic gathering. Filmmakers are eager to share their stories with the world, showcasing the rich tapestry of narratives coming from Africa and the MENA region.
Stay tuned for further updates as these projects develop and filmmakers continue to break new ground in the industry.
