I Love Hip Hop in Morocco (Morocco, 2007)
Directed by: Joshua Asen and Jennifer Needleman
Synopsis: A group of Moroccan Hip Hop hopefuls band together with the American filmmaker to create their country’s first Hip Hop festival, a celebration of music, unity, and free speech.
The story begins with a group of Moroccan Hip Hop artists who share a single dream: to rock a professional concert for a hometown crowd. Unfortunately, resistance is strong in their society and resources scarce. With the help of the American filmmaker, they appeal to the American Embassy for funding and begin the journey that will lead to the ‘I Love Hip Hop in Morocco’ festival.
This film reflects the thoughts and dreams of the true future of the Arab world: its youth. These are not the images portrayed by the media; these are the real people. And their views on America, Islam, and the world in general, might surprise a few people around the globe.
Languages: Arabic, French, English (Subtitled)
Cast: DJ Key, H-Kayne, Fnaïre, MC Bigg, Brownfingaz, Mot de Passe, FatiShow
Noted Festivals: Middle East Film Festival (Abu Dhabi), Nouveau Cinema (Montreal), Arab Film Fest, CPH:DOX (Copenhagen), IDFA (Amsterdam), Big Sky, South by Southwest
Awards: Best Doc, Atlanta Hip Hop Film Festival; Best Doc, Harlem Film Festival; Jury Award, Thin Line Film Festival; Viewer’s Choice, Casablanca Film Festival
Hip Hop Diplomacy 