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Deep Dive: Trances (1982)

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Trances
Trances is a documentary film about the Moroccan band Nass El Ghiwane, directed by Ahmed El Maanouni. The film features concert performances in Morocco and includes interviews with band members discussing the significance of their music and lyrics. It also incorporates archival footage of colonial-era Morocco, providing context to the band's cultural impact. The film was initially conceived as a filmed concert but evolved into a feature-length documentary after producer Izza Génini became involved. It was first released in 1981 and later restored in 2007, with screenings at notable events such as the Cannes Film Festival and in Marrakesh's Djemaa el-Fna square.

Why Watch

  • •See Nass El Ghiwane's electrifying concerts in Morocco.
  • •Meet band members discussing their song meanings.
  • •Find out about colonial-era Morocco through archival footage.

Did You Know

•The film was restored in 2007 by the World Cinema Foundation.
•Izza Génini became the producer after attending a concert in 1981.
•Trances was screened at the Cannes Film Festival in 2007.

Perfect For

Moroccan music fansDocumentary enthusiastsCultural history buffs