Morocco’s diverse landscapes—from dramatic deserts to historic cities—have long captivated filmmakers. Despite the popular association with Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman in Casablanca (which was not filmed in Morocco), the country boasts numerous other film locations. Classic films like Lawrence of Arabia and The Sheltering Sky were shot here, as well as more recent blockbusters including Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and various James Bond adventures.

A Brief History of Moroccan Film Making

Morocco’s film history dates back to the late 19th century, with Louis Lumière’s 1895 film The Moroccan Goatherd. By the 1940s, Orson Welles had brought Othello to Essaouira and El Jadida due to financial constraints. This marked the beginning of a flourishing relationship between Hollywood and Morocco, leading to iconic films such as Lawrence of Arabia and The Man Who Knew Too Much. Over the decades, Morocco has become a favorite backdrop for many cinematic productions.

Exploring Moroccan Film Locations

Marrakech: The Heart of Filming

Start your cinematic exploration in Marrakech, a city that has appeared in numerous films. The bustling square of Djemaa El Fna has been featured in films like Hideous Kinky with Kate Winslet, and Sex and the City 2, despite being set in Abu Dhabi. Another prominent location is La Mamounia hotel, which has been showcased in The Man Who Knew Too Much and Oliver Stone’s Alexander.

Ouarzazate: The Hollywood of Morocco

Traveling south, you’ll reach Ouarzazate, known as the ‘door of the desert’. This city, with its striking scenery, is renowned as Morocco’s Hollywood. The fortified city of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has served as the backdrop for The Mummy, Lawrence of Arabia, and Gladiator. It also played a significant role in Game of Thrones Season 3. Visit the Atlas Film Studio and explore sets from Kundun and The Jewel of the Nile, and the Taourirt Kasbah, which appeared in Star Wars.

Tangier: A Northern Gem

Moving north to Tangier, you’ll find locations featured in high-profile films like Spectre, The Living Daylights, and Men in Black: International. The coastal town of Asilah served as the Greek setting in Homeland. Tangier’s medina also provided the backdrop for The Sheltering Sky and Only Lovers Left Alive. For fans of Paul Bowles, his influence is evident in Paul Bowles: The Complete Outsider and can be explored further at Café Hafa.

Morocco’s Vibrant Film Industry

Beyond its role as a filming location for international productions, Morocco has a dynamic local film industry. Notable films include Horses of God, directed by Nabil Ayouch, and Headbang Lullaby by Hicham Lasri. The annual Marrakesh International Film Festival highlights both international stars and Moroccan cinema, showcasing local talent and fostering a love for film in the region.

Casablanca: The Classic Connection

Though not the setting for the famous film of the same name, Casablanca has been featured in action-packed scenes in movies like Mission Impossible, Spy Game, and Syriana. For a nostalgic experience, visit Rick’s Café, which echoes the film’s ambiance despite the city’s real cinematic history being more varied.

From Marrakech to Tangier, Morocco offers a rich tapestry of cinematic history and stunning backdrops. Whether exploring famous film sets or discovering local cinematic gems, Morocco promises an unforgettable experience for film enthusiasts.