RABAT | 2018 Film Fest Grand Prize Winner | 'Tangier to Casablanca'

"Tangier to Casablanca " | Philip Baites | University of Tennessee at Knoxville | IES Abroad Rabat, Academic Year 2017-2018

In Philip’s words: “This original song and film encapsulates my 9-month study abroad with IES Rabat in Morocco. Featuring a train ride, Chefchaouen (the 'Blue City'), Rabat, the Sahara Desert, cameos by two sweet neighbor girls, my Arabic professor, and my precious host mother, Doha, as the central character, 'Tangier to Casablanca' is a story of pain, joy, longing, and journeys intertwining. Two months after I arrived in Morocco, my host mother received news that her father unexpectedly passed away in Canada. Ultimately, this tragedy led to a bond to be formed between us, while also teaching me a valuable lesson. We are all on a journey. And it’s not the places or sites seen that have the lasting impact on us. It’s the people.”

FILM FESTIVAL JUROR COMMENTS:

“Absolutely loved this! Such a unique take on the 'tell your study abroad story' challenge. The music perfectly captures the beauty of Morocco, its people, and the experience of study abroad. (This song will be on repeat - sorry in advance for all the views) "
—Thamine Nayeem (2016 Film Festival Semifinalist)

“We have seen music videos before, but this one is the first original song I recall. Philip is a talented songwriter who delivers a moving story about his host mother, and he is an excellent musician as well. The videography is carefully synched with the lyrics and captures the beauty of Morocco equally against the melancholic narrative. Finally, Philip truly "captures the spirit of Study Abroad" by showing his audience the profound impact the time with his host family has upon him over the more common travel narratives we see in many entries. .”
— Leland L’Hote (IES Abroad Program Dean & Former Film Studies Professor)

“Wonderful idea and execution. It was a brave choice to go for a music video but Philip does a great job of making his artistic vision a reality. Why speak your story when you can sing it? Great job. The credits at the end added a nice personal touch.”
—Ismael Byers (2017 Film Festival Grand Prize Winner)

“Philip Bates demonstrates his skills as lyricist, composer, and filmmaker in this accomplished, piece of work. The music video has a strong narrative that explores sensitive and heartwarming themes such as love, loss, and Tangier to Casablanca is a success. Non-professional actors provide enjoyable and authentic gratitude.”
— Naomi Seekings (IES Abroad London Film Studies Professor)

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At IES Abroad, we know study abroad. Every day we see how studying abroad changes students' lives. As a not-for-profit organization that puts purpose before profit, we're proud of our legacy and leadership in the study abroad field.

LINKS:

[xXLardarXx]

I did this program in 2014 and wow, crying big fat tears right now.

[kimhempstead]

Wow - congrats on your film festival win. Very well deserved. I have tears streaming down my face! I used to work for IES, and lived abroad myself for 13 years, and you really convey the beauty and importance of education abroad!

[florenceabad-turner]

Bravo Philip! Je te souhaite de gagner!!!!

[tanalgec]

Great jobe.I hope you had enjoyed the trip and to the next time.hard luck

[paigewilliams]

This creator is everything. The video quality is great and as a TV and Film major and future study abroad student I can say I admire it with all my heart!

[zahrazahra]

So creative I like how you combined between the story of your host family and your journey in Morocco. Good luck, more successful works inchalah

[blueustick]

Very creative and good visuals! Good luck in the IES Film Festival Competition :)