Salma El Belghiti explores youth marginalization through cinema at the Marrakech Short Film Festival

Salma El Belghiti, a rising voice in Moroccan cinema, has made waves with her latest short film Darhome, showcased at the 2025 Marrakech Short Film Festival (MSFF). This deeply personal yet socially poignant work delves into the lives of marginalized youth in Tangier, reflecting broader societal issues of migration and inequality.

A personal lens on social fractures

El Belghiti represents a new generation of Moroccan filmmakers who use cinema as a means of self-expression and social commentary. For her, filmmaking is both a necessity and a cathartic process. “Every project I undertake is a form of catharsis, a way to pose questions I don’t have answers to,” she shared.

Following three short films with diverse aesthetics, Darhome emerges as her most authentic project yet, inspired by her work with the Tangier-based association Darna. This organization supports disadvantaged youth, a cause closely tied to Morocco’s current social challenges.

Tangier: A city of contrasts in Darhome

In Darhome, Tangier takes center stage as both a setting and a character. The city, often seen as a symbol of modernity and a gateway to Africa, is portrayed in its duality—its polished facade juxtaposed with glaring social inequalities.

The film's characters, inspired by young people El Belghiti met through Darna, embody the tension between exclusion and hope. Some dream of escaping through clandestine migration, while others strive to rebuild their lives within a system that often leaves them behind. These narratives resonate globally, particularly as the Mediterranean continues to witness tragic migration crises.

Through a restrained yet impactful approach, El Belghiti avoids victimization, instead portraying her characters with dignity. Her aesthetic choices provoke empathy without resorting to melodrama, offering a nuanced exploration of complex realities.

The MSFF: A launchpad for African talent

Running from September 26 to October 1, 2025, the Marrakech Short Film Festival has become a vital platform for emerging African filmmakers. For El Belghiti, the festival offers more than competition. “The MSFF is a space for sharing and recognition, where projects come to life and collaborations are born,” she noted.

Darhome competes for the coveted Prix Belarj alongside promising Moroccan works, such as Milk Brother by Kenza Tazi and Lady of the Graves by Mohamed Allali. Beyond awards, the festival provides critical opportunities for young directors to secure funding and distribution amidst structural challenges.

A filmmaker with a mission

For El Belghiti, portraying marginalized communities is both an artistic and moral responsibility. “I feel a duty to tell the stories of these young people, not to evoke pity but to spark collective reflection,” she explained. Her work explores universal themes like belonging, exile, and identity, offering a rare, authentic voice in Moroccan cinema.

In a nation striving to empower its youth, El Belghiti’s films highlight the untold stories of those often overlooked. Her commitment to social engagement underscores the transformative power of art in addressing societal fractures.

Encouraging boldness in future filmmakers

Despite her growing success, El Belghiti remains grounded. She emphasizes the importance of experimentation and collaboration for aspiring directors. “Don’t fear failure; every mistake is a lesson,” she advises, underscoring the human essence of filmmaking.

A new chapter for Moroccan cinema

With Darhome, Salma El Belghiti is shaping a cinema that mirrors Morocco’s social realities. Rejecting formulaic productions, her approach prioritizes sincerity and engagement. By spotlighting marginalized voices, she fosters public awareness and encourages reflection on societal divides.

While the MSFF offers her a valuable platform, El Belghiti’s ambitions extend far beyond local recognition. For her, cinema is a tool for healing, bridging gaps, and strengthening social bonds—a vision set to leave a lasting mark on Moroccan culture.