On Friday, May 17th, Rick’s Café served as the perfect backdrop for a captivating conference as part of the Journées du Patrimoine de Casablanca (Casablanca Heritage Days). The event, organized by Casamémoire, celebrated Casablanca’s unique role as a “ciné-cité” — a city whose streets, architecture, and ambiance have captured the imagination of filmmakers from across the globe.
The conference, titled Casablanca, ciné-cité: The White City as a Cinematic Subject, brought together prominent voices from the world of cinema and history. Moderated by Faiçal Faquihi, a journalist from L’Economiste, the panel explored Casablanca’s identity as both a real and imagined place, crafted through the lens of cinema.
The discussion featured an impressive lineup of participants:
- Bouchra Zindine, organizer of the Casablanca International Independent Film Festival, who shared insights into the city’s emerging role in the independent film scene.
- Ismail Benjelloun, historian and author of Le Maroc hollywoodien: Histoire d’un décor de cinéma, provided a historical perspective on Morocco’s legacy as a cinematic set.
- Renowned filmmakers Nour-Eddine Lakhmari and Hicham Lasri discussed how Casablanca has influenced their storytelling, reflecting on the city’s ever-evolving identity and its portrayal on screen.
The event was a true celebration of Casablanca’s rich cultural heritage and its longstanding relationship with cinema. The lively discussions, set against the timeless elegance of Rick’s Café, made for an unforgettable afternoon, weaving together history, art, and film in one of Casablanca’s most iconic venues.
For anyone who cherishes Casablanca’s unique blend of old-world charm and cinematic flair, this conference was a rare and insightful look into the city’s continuing role in global cinema.
Keep an eye out for photos recapping the festival’s highlights – the laughter, the tears, and the shared appreciation for the golden age of cinema.
We’re already looking forward to next event!
