THE MOOR OF MALLORCA

Written & Directed by John Foss

In modern-day Mallorca, a young Muslim boy isolated as an immigrant and facing quiet prejudice, grapples with faith, identity, and history as his town prepares for a festival reenacting the Christian defeat of the Moors in this coming-of-age portrait about belonging.

SYNOPSIS

Nasir, a 10-year-old Moroccan boy, has recently moved to Mallorca with his family. Struggling to fit in at school, he attempts to adopt the customs of his Christian classmates, even expressing a desire to convert, as he grows increasingly uncertain about his Muslim identity. The tension escalates when he’s cast as a "Moorish invader" in a local festival reenacting historical battles, sparking teasing from his peers and deepening his discomfort with his heritage.

As the festival looms closer, Nasir’s journey becomes a poignant exploration of identity, family, and cultural belonging. Guided by his mother Sofia’s quiet wisdom, he begins to understand the strength and beauty of his roots. By embracing who he is, Nasir transforms his feelings of alienation into a source of pride, forging a deeper connection to both his heritage and his place in the world. As the festival culminates in a climactic reenactment of the historical battle, Nasir steps into his role with newfound courage, treating the staged conflict with a seriousness that transforms it into a moment of personal and cultural triumph.

THE FESTIVAL

The culminating event of The Moor of Mallorca is Es Firó, a vibrant and emotionally charged festival that transforms the town of Sóller into a living, breathing reenactment of history. It is a visceral, cinematic experience, with equal parts celebration, theater, and cultural memory. To get a glimpse of this unforgettable world, click here to watch a short YouTube video that captures the energy, color, and emotional power of Es Firó de Sóller.

VISUAL TAPESTRY

The Moor of Mallorca offers a visually stunning canvas that juxtaposes the intricate textures of Islamic culture with the bold iconography of Catholic and Christian traditions. From the symmetrical, balanced patterns of Nasir’s prayer rug and the vibrant dishes shared at family meals to the ornate carvings of a church’s altar and the vivid costumes of the festival, every detail becomes an opportunity to immerse the audience in the richness of these contrasting worlds. The film captures the sensory allure of cultural rituals—like the rhythmic grace of Islamic prayer or the lively celebrations of the festival—while exploring the beauty of shared spaces, such as bustling markets brimming with color and flavor. These contrasts and harmonies are woven throughout, providing a cinematic language that underscores the story’s themes of identity, belonging, and cultural intersection. With poetic imagery and rich textures, the film would invite viewers into an evocative world where personal and spiritual discovery unfold.