The Marrakech International Film Festival has officially unveiled the jury lineup for its 22nd edition, set to take place from November 28 to December 6, 2025. Leading this year’s jury is acclaimed South Korean filmmaker Bong Joon Ho, whose global impact was solidified with Parasite—a film that swept both the Cannes Film Festival and the Academy Awards. Known for his daring storytelling and sharp social commentary, Bong brings a bold and thoughtful perspective to the role.
Joining him are eight artists from a wide range of backgrounds, each offering a unique lens through which to evaluate the fourteen feature films selected for the official competition. Among them is Brazilian director Karim Aïnouz, celebrated for his evocative visuals and emotionally rich narratives. His return to Morocco follows the international acclaim he received for The Invisible Life of Eurídice Gusmão, which left a strong impression at Cannes.
Morocco will also be represented by filmmaker Hakim Belabbes, whose deeply personal approach to storytelling and commitment to cultural transmission promises to add a grounded, introspective voice to the jury. French director Julia Ducournau, winner of the Palme d’Or for her audacious film Titane, brings an edge of innovation and genre-defiance to the table.
Iranian actor and filmmaker Payman Maadi, best known for his role in the Berlin-awarded A Separation, will also take part in the deliberations, offering his dual experience on both sides of the camera. The jury also includes a younger wave of talent, with American actress Jenna Ortega, a breakout star thanks to her role in the series Wednesday, and Anya Taylor-Joy, who shot to global fame with The Queen’s Gambit and recently starred in Furiosa and Dune: Part Two.
Rounding out the panel is Celine Song, the Korean-Canadian director behind Past Lives, one of the most talked-about debut films of the past year. Her inclusion reflects the festival’s continued interest in elevating emerging voices with distinct cinematic styles.
By assembling a jury that spans four continents and multiple generations, the Marrakech International Film Festival reinforces its core mission: to create a global forum where cinematic visions collide and cultures converse. This year’s selection promises not just a celebration of storytelling, but an exchange of ideas where film acts as a universal language, bridging difference through shared emotion.
The winners of this year’s competition will be announced during the closing ceremony on Saturday, December 6, in Marrakech.
