Marion Cotillard to champion emerging filmmakers at Marrakech International Film Festival 2026

From established international stars to filmmakers making their first feature films, the Marrakech International Film Festival brings together different generations of cinema each year. This November, Oscar-winning actress Marion Cotillard will take centre stage at the Moroccan festival as president of the jury for its 23^rd edition.

Running from 20^th to 28^th November, the festival places a particular emphasis on discovering new talent, with its international competition dedicated to directors making their first or second feature film. Cotillard will lead the jury responsible for awarding the Étoile d’Or, the festival’s highest honour.

The La Vie en Rose and Inception star is no stranger to Marrakech, having attended the festival since its early years. Speaking about her appointment, she said: “Supporting filmmakers as they take their first steps is a vital part of what this festival is all about.”

Her involvement also reflects the festival’s connection between established names and emerging voices. Cotillard has worked with some of cinema’s best-known directors, from Christopher Nolan and Tim Burton to Jacques Audiard and the Dardenne brothers, moving between Hollywood blockbusters and independent European films.

She won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Édith Piaf in La Vie en Rose and received another nomination for Two Days, One Night. More recently, she appeared in Lee, alongside Kate Winslet, and the fourth season of The Morning Show, with Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon.

Founded on the idea of bringing international cinema to Marrakech, the festival’s competition offers a platform for filmmakers at the beginning of their careers. With Cotillard now leading the jury, this year’s edition will once again put the spotlight on the directors who could become some of cinema’s biggest names in the years ahead.