Notion and Curzon Film Host Exclusive Casablanca Beats Screening

Hosted at Curzon Hoxton on 27th April, Notion hosted an exclusive screening of Casablanca Beats, in collaboration with Curzon Film.

Casablanca Beats is the story of Anas, a former rapper who is employed in a cultural centre. Encouraged by their new teacher, the students will try to free themselves from the weight of traditions to live their passion and express themselves through hip-hop culture.

Directed by Nabil Ayouch (Horses of God, Much Loved), the film features a cast of first-time actors delivering authentic performances. French actors Anas Babousi, Ismail Adouab, Nouhaila Arif, Zinem Boujemaa, Meriem Nakkach and Abdejelilah Basbousi all made their movie debut in Casablanca Beats.

After the exclusive screening, a panel discussion following the ethos of the film took place. Hosted by DJ Vanessa Maria, four successful, DIY creatives joined her on stage to discuss different methods of breaking into the industry, sharing their personal stories, and imparting advice. Taking part were makeup artist Byron London, photographer Francis Augusto, stylist Jen Eleto and DJ JJess.

Over the course of the discussion, Byron, Francis, Jen, and JJess talked about the spaces that helped them grow and develop early in their careers and if they had to make those spaces for themselves, the best and worst advice they had received, and how the industry is changing, with creatives being more open to collaboration and breaking away from convention to forge their own paths. Following the theme of DIY, the panel also spoke about the importance of mentorship, navigating their first industry experiences, and gaining confidence.

To close the evening, a DJ from Foundation FM treated guests to an atmospheric set.

Catch Casablanca Beats is in Curzon Cinemas and on Curzon Home Cinema from Friday 29^th April 2022.