Everybody Loves Touda

Touda is a sheikha, a traditional Moroccan singer who performs in bars in the small town where she lives. To secure a better future for her son, she plans to leave her hometown and move to Casablanca

As a singer, Touda wishes to be loved, but the attention she receives is often unwanted. Men perceive the sensuality in her performances as an open invitation, without her consent. Despite this, she is determined to follow her dream of becoming a sheikha. In the title role, we see a fantastic performance from Nisrin Erradi. She portrays a determined woman and mother who fights for the recognition she deserves, despite society's attempts to suppress her.

Director Nabil Ayouch and screenwriter Maryam Touzani – who also worked on The Blue Caftan – have created a touching portrait of Touda and Moroccan musical traditions. Everybody Loves Touda premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2024.

The film is supported by Sørfond, which is managed by Stiftelsen Festivalkontoret and the Norwegian Film Institute.

Pub Talks: Morocco | A women-friendly monarchy?

Is Morocco a women-friendly monarchy? We provide intellectual input during the festival – with the possibility of buying a drink in the bar  – as Rania Maktabi joins us to discuss gender equality in Morocco before the screening of EVERYBODY LOVES TOUDA on Saturday, April 5. The mini-lecture will take place in Vikakjelleren from 15.00 to 15.20, providing academic context about Morocco. 

You do not need a ticket for the film to attend the event.

Director

Nabil Ayouch (b. 1969) is a French-Moroccan film and TV director, producer, and writer. Since 1993, he has received significant international recognition for his feature films and short films, including Razzia (2017), Much Loved (2015), and Horses of God (2012)