Paris-based director Laila Marrakchi returns to Cannes with 'Strawberries', a film spotlighting Moroccan seasonal laborers facing exploitation in Spain.
Exploring New Realities
Known for depicting Morocco's elite in films like 'Marock' and 'Rock the Casbah', Marrakchi shifts focus to working-class Moroccan women in 'Strawberries'. Inspired by true events, the film tells the story of women leaving Morocco to work on Spanish strawberry farms, seeking better lives but encountering harsh conditions.
"A journalist friend told me about a woman [Hasna in the film], who left her family to work on a farm in Spain and stood against exploitation," Marrakchi shared with Variety. Accompanying her friend to Andalusia, Marrakchi was moved by the women's plight, prompting her to pursue this film project.
Focus on Strength and Resilience
Marrakchi emphasizes the women's strength and courage: "They leave for money, hoping for a better life. These women are strong and capable, despite lacking skills." She wanted to portray their resilience, not misery, highlighting their determination.
From Documentary to Fiction
Initially researching real subjects, Marrakchi opted for a fictional approach, collaborating with screenwriter Delphine Agut. "We decided it was best to distance from reality and use imagination," she explained. The film explores the shattered dreams of these women as they face harsh realities.
Challenges in Production
Casting Nisrin Erradi as Hasna, Marrakchi chose professional actors over non-actors due to the responsibilities involved. "I love Nisrin. She’s strong," Marrakchi noted, praising her performances in 'Everybody Loves Touda' and 'Adam'.
Filming faced challenges in Spain due to concerns over media coverage of farm exploitation, leading the team to shoot greenhouse scenes in Morocco. "People get scared when they see a camera," Marrakchi remarked, reflecting the sensitivity around the issue.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/film/global/laila-marrakchi-female-migrant-strawberries-cannes-1236735409/
