A Special Event of the 28th New York Sephardic Jewish Film Festival at the Edmond J. Safra Hall

6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Moroccan Cultural Gathering’s
Live Moroccan Music • Mint Tea & Pastries • Culture & Community

7:00 PM
Special Screening of Burial on Hold

Celebrate the rich traditions, vibrant culture, and timeless spirit of Morocco at a special evening presented as part of the 28th New York Sephardic Jewish Film Festival.

The evening begins with a Moroccan Reception featuring live music, mint tea, pastries, and an opportunity to gather with members of the Sephardic community and festival guests. Following the reception, audiences will enjoy a special screening of Burial on Hold, an acclaimed dramatic comedy that explores family, identity, tradition, and second chances.

SYNOPSIS

In the old quarter of Larache, Morocco, Shlomo’s death sparks a troubling question about his religious identity: should he be buried in the Jewish or Muslim cemetery?

Returning from Canada, his son David is determined to give him a proper burial, while Imad, a childhood friend haunted by guilt, seeks redemption. Through their journey, Burial on Hold explores memory, loyalty, and reconciliation between people, faiths, and the past.

DIRECTOR’S BIO

Mohammed Marouazi is a Canadian-Moroccan director and actor trained at the Institute of Dramatic Arts in Rabat. After directing several acclaimed short films, he made his feature debut with Burial on Hold. His work explores memory, loyalty, and reconciliation through contemporary Moroccan stories. He was also nominated for a Canadian Screen Award for his performance in Respire (2023).

Followed by an in-person Q&A with director Mohammed Marouazi.