Culture and cinema

Morocco: The Land of Movie Making

A land of culture, civilization, and authenticity, the charm of Morocco attracts not only tourists but also filmmakers from around the globe. The diverse landscapes and ideal lighting conditions make it a prime location for filming. From blockbusters to television series, Morocco is a favored destination for many production companies.

Famous Movies Filmed in Morocco:

1. “Gladiator” (2000)

   * Directed by Ridley Scott

   * Filming locations: Ouarzazate, Aït Benhaddou

2. “Lawrence of Arabia” (1962)

   * Directed by David Lean

   * Filming locations: Aït Benhaddou, Ouarzazate

3. “The Mummy” (1999)

   * Directed by Stephen Sommers

   * Filming locations: Marrakech, Sahara Desert

4. “Kingdom of Heaven” (2005)

   * Directed by Ridley Scott

   * Filming locations: Ouarzazate, Aït Benhaddou

5. “Inception” (2010)

   * Directed by Christopher Nolan

   * Filming locations: Tangier

6. “Spectre” (2015)

   * Directed by Sam Mendes

   * Filming locations: Tangier, Erfoud

7. “Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation” (2015)

   * Directed by Christopher McQuarrie

   * Filming locations: Casablanca, Marrakesh

8. “Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time” (2010)

   * Directed by Mike Newell

   * Filming locations: Ouarzazate

9. “Black Hawk Down” (2001)

   * Directed by Ridley Scott

   * Filming locations: Rabat, Salé

10. “The Jewel of the Nile” (1985)

    * Directed by Lewis Teague

    * Filming locations: Marrakech

11. “The Bourne Ultimatum” (2007)

    * Directed by Paul Greengrass

    * Filming locations: Tangier

12. “Body of Lies” (2008)

    * Directed by Ridley Scott

    * Filming locations: Rabat, Casablanca

13. “Babel” (2006)

    * Directed by Alejandro González

    * Filming locations: Ouarzazate

14. “Alexander” (2004)

    * Directed by Oliver Stone

    * Filming locations: Ouarzazate

15. “Casablanca” (1942)

    * Directed by Michael Curtiz

    * Although primarily filmed in studios, it is set in Casablanca.

Famous TV Series Filmed in Morocco:

1. “Game of Thrones”

   * Filming locations: Essaouira, Aït Benhaddou

2. “Homeland”

   * Filming locations: Rabat, Casablanca

3. “Prison Break” (Season 5)

   * Filming locations: Rabat, Casablanca

4. “The Amazing Race”

   * Filming locations: Various seasons showcased Marrakesh and Casablanca

5. “Vikings”

   * Filming locations: Depicted Mediterranean and desert regions

6. “The Bureau” (Le Bureau des Légendes)

   * Filming locations: Various Middle Eastern representations

Honorable Mentions:

* “The Old Guard” (2020)

  * Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood

  * Filming locations: Marrakesh

* “John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum” (2019)

  * Directed by Chad Stahelski

  * Filming locations: Essaouira

Morocco’s unique and versatile landscapes, historic cities, and exotic settings make it an attractive destination for filmmakers and television producers alike, contributing to its growing reputation as a global filming hub.