Baya Zarai
About Baya
Baya Zarai is a Moroccan filmmaker based in Marrakech, with Tunisian roots. From a young age, she was captivated by the magic that unfolds behind the scenes of filmmaking. At just eight years old, she began her musical journey at the conservatory, mastering the piano and earning her diploma by the age of sixteen. It was during this time that she discovered her love for cinema after watching Roman Polanski’s The Pianist. The powerful portrayal of war, combined with the haunting composition of Frédéric Chopin that she practiced, ignited her curiosity about the filmmaking process and the artistry behind those moments. The melodies she learned on the piano further fueled her desire for musical composition, intertwining her passion for both sound and visuals.
Baya also vividly remembers watching Titanic, directed by James Cameron, at the age of thirteen. The film’s emotional depth and the tragic scenes of the ship sinking awakened a yearning within her to tell stories that resonate deeply with audiences.
She attended the prestigious Higher School of Visual Arts in Marrakech, recognized as one of the best film and art institutions in Africa and ranked globally among film schools. During her studies, she chose to specialize in sound engineering, seamlessly blending her musical expertise with storytelling. Her acute auditory sensitivity enriched her sound editing, mixing, and on-site recording, allowing her to craft immersive auditory experiences. Her innovative use of sound became a hallmark of her style, fusing classical techniques with modern approaches to evoke powerful emotional responses.
Projects
Documentaries
Libre Soy
Libre Soy is a documentary that immerses us in the world of Paula...
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The Invisibles
The Invisibles is a documentary that amplifies the voices of society's unseen...
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Tell them I can hear them
Tell Them I Hear Them unveils the lives of resilient young orphans...
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Short Movies
Exposure
Aya, a contestant on a high-stakes television show, must answer seven questions...
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Comfort
Comfort is a short film that draws us into the surreal landscape of a toxic romance...
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3+One
This psychological docu-fiction explores an individual's journey beyond their comfort zone...
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In Developement
Title: Eyes of Humanity
Type: Social Documentary
Status: In Development
Type: Social Documentary
Status: In Development
Synopsis:
Eyes of Humanity is a social documentary, capturing the profound stories within the gaze of 100 individuals. Without dialogue or narration, it immerses viewers in emotions expressed through their eyes, exploring universal experiences of joy, sorrow, hope, and resilience. This journey invites reflection on empathy and the silent connections that unite us.
Eyes of Humanity is a social documentary, capturing the profound stories within the gaze of 100 individuals. Without dialogue or narration, it immerses viewers in emotions expressed through their eyes, exploring universal experiences of joy, sorrow, hope, and resilience. This journey invites reflection on empathy and the silent connections that unite us.
Title: Nature vs. Nurture: The Psychopath Behind Bars
Type: Psychological Criminal Documentary
Status: In Development
Type: Psychological Criminal Documentary
Status: In Development
Synopsis:
Nature vs. Nurture: The Psychopath Behind Bars is a psychological documentary exploring whether psychopaths are born or made through the lens of a death row convict. By examining the interplay of genetics and environment, the film features expert insights and challenges viewers to reflect on the nature of evil.
The Filmmaker’s Approach
As a passionate filmmaker, my approach centers on the profound interplay of color and sound, both essential in evoking emotions and crafting compelling narratives. My artistic vision is shaped by a desire to explore complex themes and engage deeply with my subjects, ensuring that every element of my work resonates with authenticity and emotional depth.
The Emotional Palette
I use color as a powerful storytelling tool, selecting palettes that convey emotions and atmospheres. For example, in In the Mood for Love, Wong Kar-wai employs deep reds and vibrant yellows to reflect longing, while La La Land uses blues and yellows to capture the bittersweet nature of dreams. Exploring Themes
My work often delves into themes of identity, love, and societal issues. I examine characters’ journeys of self-discovery, the nuances of relationships, and pressing societal topics to encourage reflection and dialogue. Crafting Soundscapes
Sound is crucial in emotional storytelling. A well-crafted soundtrack guides the audience’s response. I draw inspiration from Arrival for its atmospheric tones that enhance narrative depth, and Her for its haunting score that connects audiences with internal struggles. Engagement with Subjects
Genuine engagement with subjects is vital for authenticity. I prioritize building trust, allowing individuals to express their true selves and share their experiences, resulting in richer narratives. Influence of Asian and Hollywood Cinema
My artistic vision is shaped by Asian and Hollywood cinema, drawing from the emotional depth of Oldboy and Parasite and the sweeping narratives of Inception and The Shape of Water.I strive to use color, sound, and thematic exploration to create captivating, emotionally resonant narratives that push boundaries.
The Role of Actors
I believe in the transformative power of actors in storytelling. Collaborating closely with them, I foster an environment where they can fully inhabit their roles, leading to authentic performances that resonate deeply with audiences. Their insights and instincts are invaluable, enriching the narrative and elevating the overall impact of the film. Contact Baya
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions !
