- “Casablanca” (1942): One of the most iconic films of all time, “Casablanca” is set in the city of the same name during World War II. This romantic drama starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman beautifully captures the atmosphere of the era.
- “Gladiator” (2000): While not entirely set in Morocco, parts of the epic historical drama “Gladiator” were filmed in Aďt Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ancient city and its impressive kasbahs served as the backdrop for some of the film’s most memorable scenes.
- “The Mummy” (1999): While the story takes place primarily in Egypt, Morocco’s vast deserts and exotic landscapes were used to film various scenes in “The Mummy.” The film showcases Morocco’s magnificent dunes and adds to the mystical ambiance of the story.
- “Ouarzazate” (2016): This documentary film directed by Ali Essafi explores the city of Ouarzazate, also known as the “Hollywood of Morocco.” It provides an insightful look into the film industry in Morocco and its impact on the local community.
- “Inception” (2010): Christopher Nolan’s mind-bending science fiction film, “Inception,” includes a memorable sequence set in the fortress city of Tangier, Morocco. The city’s history and distinctive architecture provide a visually striking backdrop for the film’s surreal events.
- “The Sheltering Sky” by Paul Bowles: This influential novel published in 1949 follows the story of an American couple traveling through Morocco in an attempt to find meaning in their lives. Bowles beautifully captures the harsh desert landscape and explores themes of existentialism and cultural clash.
- “The Moor’s Last Sigh” by Salman Rushdie: Although primarily set in India, this novel by Salman Rushdie features significant sections set in Morocco. It tells the tale of a Jewish family’s struggles and experiences against the backdrop of an increasingly chaotic world.
- “The Spider’s House” by Paul Bowles: Written by the same author as “The Sheltering Sky,” this novel is set in 1950s Morocco during its struggles for independence from France. Bowles delves into the complexities of colonialism, cultural conflict, and personal freedoms through the lives of his characters.
- “Tangier: A Literary Guide for Visitors” edited by Josh Shoemake: While not a single novel, this curated collection of writings by various authors provides a literary tour of Tangier, offering different perspectives and experiences of the city throughout history. It’s a exploration of Tangier’s cultural and literary heritage.
- “The Forgiven” by Lawrence Osborne: Set in the Atlas Mountains region of Morocco, this novel tells the story of an English couple attending a comfortable party at a villa. The book delves into themes of morality, forgiveness, and the clash between Western tourists and the indigenous culture
WANDERLIST: Morocco in books and on film
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