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Cinema
Whether it involves historical films or contemporary actions, the plans are flexible enough to suit any era and situation. This proves to be an invaluable advantage for directors, sparing them the need to undertake extensive journeys in search of locations that could authentically bring their screenplay ideas to life.
Located just five hours away from America and a mere few hours from Europe, Ouarzazate presents filmmakers with an array of exceptional natural assets. Recently, some of the world’s largest film studios have begun to shift away from conventional destinations, such as locations in Latin America, due to the “exorbitant compensation” demanded for shooting there. Similarly, the appeal of Tunisia and Egypt has been challenged by Morocco, emerging as a formidable competitor on the filmmaking stage.
Foreign film production in Ouarzazate is by no means a new phenomenon. Stretching back to the First World War, this region has attracted numerous legendary directors, including Alfred Hitchcock and David Lean, who chose to set up their cameras there.
The Incentives:
The public policy aimed at providing support to various sectors within the film industry, including film production, film promotion, and film exploitation and distribution, is structured around promotional initiatives primarily centered on financial incentives for production companies, activities promoting films, and enhancing film-related infrastructure.
Decree No. 2.17.373, which modifies and supplements Decree No. 2.12.325 dated 28 Ramadan 1433 (17 August 2012), lays out the conditions and procedures for granting assistance in areas such as film production, digitization, renovation, and the establishment of movie theaters, as well as the organization of film festivals.
In accordance with the stipulations outlined, and in addition to the support provided at its foundation, financial aid is allotted to foreign audiovisual and cinematographic works produced in Morocco.
The requirements and standards for receiving such aid, along with the mechanisms for disbursing payments, will be defined through a collaborative directive issued jointly by the Minister of Communication and the Minister of Finance.
The purpose of this support is to stimulate foreign audiovisual and cinematographic production within Morocco while also fostering the advancement of domestic film production capacities through the exchange of international expertise.
Assistance for foreign audiovisual and cinematographic production in Morocco will be extended within the parameters set by existing legislative texts pertaining to the film industry, as well as the specific guidelines formulated for this purpose. This support will be provided using allocations from the General Budget of the State allocated to the Fund established under Article 44 of Finance Law No. 8.96 for the fiscal year 1996-1997.
This support takes the form of a grant, the amount of which is determined as 20% of the total eligible expenditure incurred within Morocco. The prerequisites and benchmarks for granting foreign production support in Morocco, along with the procedures for payment, will be established through a combined decree issued by the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Communication.
The region stands out as a national frontrunner in the realm of cinema, holding a pioneering status for hosting film productions in Africa. With one of the most effective ecosystems in the African film sector, this appeal, centered largely in Ouarzazate, owes its strength to a series of valuable assets:
- Cost-Effective and Incentive-Rich Environment: The region boasts competitive costs and a range of incentives that enhance its allure to filmmakers.
- Diverse Landscapes and Abundant Sunshine: Blessed with a variety of landscapes and a predominantly sunny climate throughout the year, the region offers a visually captivating backdrop for diverse cinematic ventures.
- Cutting-Edge Facilities: Bolstering its appeal are three well-equipped studios: Oasis, Atlas, and CLA studios.
- Excellent Reception Infrastructure: The region benefits from a welcoming infrastructure, including an international airport, hotels, and other reception facilities that facilitate the smooth functioning of film productions.
- Skilled Workforce: A pool of highly qualified human resources, including craftsmen and technicians, contributes significantly to the region’s cinematic achievements.
- Global Recognition as a Film Hub: Garnering international acclaim, the region is recognized as a global film capital, having played host to over 200 notable film productions.
- Dominant National Presence: The region accounts for an impressive 45% share of national film shoots and investments.
- High-Profile Productions: Some of the industry’s most significant projects, such as Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, Black Hawk Down, Queen Of The Desert, Kingdom Of Heaven, Prison Break, and The Last Temptation of Christ, have been filmed here.
This vibrant film sector supports a workforce of more than 90,000 individuals and stands as a pivotal driver of potential investment. Its positive impact reverberates across diverse sectors, including tourism, craftsmanship, trade, and services.
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