A brief commentary on the film, “Calle Malaga”
Mountaiin Shadow Director, John Bennison

For those of us who don’t know the Spanish language, the word ‘calle’ means street; and ‘malaga’ can refer to a city in southern Spain. Or, it can mean ‘a sweet fortified wine.’

While this film is set in nearbly Tangiers in northwestern Morocco, its title aptly sets the stage for describing a place to call home; as well as the main character’s sweet -- but fortified -- temperament .

There are innumerable terms and phrases to describe the notion of ‘home.’ From homeless, to homeward bound, to cherishing the life of a homebody. In this story, the main character -- once displaced long ago -- has made a home for herself, and hardly needs a ‘rest’ home. In the end, she -- and her daughter -- will be left gazing out at the end of a closing day; wondering whether -- or how -- it will remain that ‘home’ is where the heart is?

Note: The film contains a few lines with strong descriptive language and a brief sexual scene. jb

“Calle Malaga” was voted as “Audience Favorite” in the World Cinema category at the Mill Valley Film Festival in October, 2025. You can read the Director’s Statement below.

DIRECTOR’S STATEMENT - Maryam Touzani

Calle Malaga was born out of a deep need to reconnect with my memories, explore them, and bring them back to life. I believe what we create is an echo of the traces life leaves within us.

When I was born, my Spanish grandmother was already living with my parents in Tangier. Like many Spaniards, she had moved there as a young girl and stayed for the rest of her life. She could never have imagined leaving the city she adored — her city.

Today, she rests in a forgotten cemetery in Tangier, alongside others who, like her, chose this land as home. Growing up, I watched her friends — part of the large Spanish community —struggle to avoid being uprooted. They were often misunderstood by their children, who had moved to Spain and wanted them to follow. That visceral attachment moved me deeply. I felt the need to explore this powerful bond, and María Ángeles’ character came to embody not only that desire, but also other questions that had haunted me for years.

I believe growing old is a privilege, and every wrinkle on our face is a testament to a life fully lived, with all its joys and sorrows. I wanted to portray a different kind of aging: one still full of life, defying the limits often imposed on it.

Through María Ángeles, I wanted to confront society’s views on aging — the expectations, the prejudices, the barriers — and have her break through them. I believe in the freedom to age as we wish. I wanted to tell a different story; one that is vibrant, sensual, and defiant. And in doing so, return to my roots, to shoot my first feature in this city that is also my own.