$200 Million ’The Alchemist’ Film Adaptation to Begin Production in Morocco

This is a big contract won by the Moroccan Cinematographic Center (CCM). The feature film, worth 200 million dirhams, will be directed by American Kevin Frakes with the participation of international stars.

"The Alchemist" tells the story of a young Andalusian shepherd named Santiago on an epic quest for a treasure that will change his life. The novel has sold over 100 million copies and has been translated into 56 languages. Brazilian writer Paulo Coelho received $6.5 million in royalties.

For now, the cast of the announced star actors includes Sebastian De Souza, Tom Hollander, Shohreh Aghdashloo and Moroccan actor Youssef Kerkour (nominated for the "BAFTA Awards", a prestigious British film award) and renowned Palestinian actor Ashraf Barhom.

The four main cities that will host the filming crews are: Marrakech, Essaouira, Erfoud and Fès. "We have criss-crossed all of Morocco, but the production team has ultimately opted for these four locations," said Zakaria Alaoui, head of Zak Production, who is providing executive production alongside the American production company "The Alchemist".

He added that several Moroccan actors will be selected to participate in this shoot, which is scheduled to last four months. The film’s release on screens is expected in 2022.