Everybody Loves Touda (2024) Movie Script
It all started with a shout.
A shout that became a chant.
An "Aita".
In the 19th century, the Aita
rose from the plains of Morocco
toward the Atlas Mountains.
For the first time,
women dared to sing it in public
in their villages.
Fighting injustice,
standing up to the powerful,
they sang without shame
or constraint,
celebrating carnal pleasure.
They came to be known as "Sheikhats".
Both idolized and despised,
the modern era
has tried to break them.
But some have fought back,
so the power of their Aita
may continue to resonate...
There we are, there we are!
Tonight, the horses bring offerings
to ask for my hand
Don't hold it against me,
I can't help it, my beloved
Ayli, Ayli!
Come and fight for me.
Soothe my agony
You descend from men free
and defiant, my love.
Ayli, Ayli!
Only a true horseman
knows how to mount a mare
Love is too complex
Let me not speak of it
Ayli, Ayli!
What's he got, my love?
What's he got against me?
It doesn't matter, I can't help it
Don't blame his eyes,
so powerful,
With such a gaze,
I don't care if he's master or slave
I say to those who flee
without seeking to conquer
That the true warriors
gather on the plains of Chaouia
Those warriors of Chaouia
have conquered my heart and soul
Excuse me!
Can I help you, child?
Would you like some music?
No.
Have you eaten?
At Rkia's.
Did she fill your belly
with potatoes again?
Was her tagine yucky, as usual?
That's all she can cook anyway.
Wait.
I'm sorry I didn't take you
to school this morning.
How was your day?
Did those little bastards
bug you again?
Next time,
you grab them by the balls.
And you crush them.
Not like that.
- Got it?
- Yup.
Are you hungry?
Yes.
Want to grab a doughnut?
A buttermilk.
And a Rio.
There you go.
Thank you.
Is it good?
Super!
Think it's that easy to go to Casa?
And without any money?
Relax, I'll have enough.
- And Yassine's school?
- Damn!
I can't even shit in peace
in this place!
As soon as I hear Casa,
I freak out.
Even if you're careful,
thieves on motorcycles
will snatch your bag and take off.
Know how big that city is?
To get from place to place
takes a day.
And if it's cold, or snowing
or pouring rain,
no taxi will stop.
You listening to me or not?
If you're on foot,
you have to read the signs.
So you need to know how to read.
And what's more...
Rkia, I told you I'm leaving.
Period!
And your buttermilk?
You won't find any there.
So what?
I won't die if I don't drink it.
Stop it.
Stop, you'll ruin the fabric.
I'll clean it for you quickly.
You won't be late.
Come on.
Ask me if I'm doing better.
Ask me
Now that he's left me,
don't try to comfort me
Now that he's left me,
don't try to comfort me
Ask me if I'm doing better.
Ask me...
Greetings to Haj Mohamed!
Welcome to our guests from Rabat!
Overthinking has made me weak
and fragile
Overthinking has made me weak
and fragile
How could you forget
how much we loved each other?
How could you forget our love?
Tell me!
Long live the bride and groom!
Let's go, everybody!
And a curse on anyone not dancing!
Wait!
Stop!
- Good morning.
- Good morning.
I don't send you my son
to get bullied.
We do what we can.
We can't watch every child.
So I must accept kids
making fun of him?
Without us,
he'd be on the streets.
Consider yourself lucky.
He's here to learn.
This isn't the place.
He needs a school
adapted to his disability.
My son is not disabled.
Calm down, ma'am.
We've turned a blind eye so far,
but the principal
won't take him next year.
It's best for him to learn a trade.
I want him to be educated.
- Hi there.
- Hi.
Ignoring my calls?
I'm busy.
And right now... you busy?
I'm on a night shift.
I said I'm busy! Can't you see?
Are you sick?
You know I've got
six months left here...
Six months here,
six months there.
That's the life of a cop.
I hope your wife and kids
still know you.
See you next Saturday?
I spend Saturday with my son.
So when?
...to make money.
Start again.
I'm going to sing to make money.
- I'm going to sing...
- To make money.
No. Too complicated for me.
You'll see,
you'll be glad when we talk
and no one else understands.
Do all Sheikhats speak it?
All of them.
It's the Sheikha trademark.
That eyeliner glitters!
Let me see.
You look gorgeous!
God bless you.
You know what I'd like?
Take me into your troupe.
You know I have no troupe.
Go to sleep early!
Don't worry, we're going to party.
She opened it with her mouth,
the slut!
Easy.
Oh yeah?
You're drying out!
You're right.
Waiter! Bring us two beers!
Coming up.
As soon as I get home,
she comes over to sniff my mouth.
I tell her it's just...
the smell of artichoke juice.
Same thing!
Artichoke juice and beer.
Both are Halal!
That's true.
I had 4, he had half a case.
That makes 16.
Here you go.
Next time, give me beer.
Not water.
If you want to dilute,
dilute one bottle, not all of it.
I'm not a jug.
Good evening.
Is that all, Mr. El Maati?
I've been waiting an hour.
I was to go on before her.
It's okay.
You took good care of Mr. Rabie.
He drank like a horse.
Did he offer you lamb
at his butcher shop?
I'm not a whore, I'm a singer.
Little of this, little of that, babe.
No problem.
Once she's done, you go on.
It is a problem
if their pockets are empty.
I don't want to pick up the crumbs.
In any case, I like Hlima.
She keeps it simple.
Grab her tits, her pussy...
As long as they cough up the cash!
Not my fault
the customers come for her.
Thank you,
I hope you enjoyed it.
You guys were great!
I adore you.
Sorry, I didn't see you.
May God strike you blind!
Hlima put you to sleep, right?
Come on, get up everybody!
We're going to have some real fun!
- Bye.
- Bye.
Let's go, Touda.
Are you coming?
Without a helmet, Officer?
Special permission.
Don't make me fall.
If you fall,
the stock market will crash.
Anything new?
I found a school,
but it has shut down.
It says so in the paper.
I printed it out for you.
Read it.
Unfortunately, the Mohammedia School
for the Deaf and Dumb
is shutting its doors
for lack of funding.
What are you telling me
about Mohammedia for?
I said the school in Casablanca.
Talk to them.
I tried, but they won't give me
a straight answer.
I think if you go there,
they'll help you.
Damn them!
- Be right back.
- Okay.
Hello.
What fair do you mean?
The Sidi Chenane Fair.
I've never been there.
It's a huge fair.
People come from all over.
I don't know, I'm busy.
Stay with your butchers!
I'll take another girl.
I called you because that idiot Najat
got knocked up.
There's money to be made
and good food.
If they like you,
they'll call next year.
When is it?
The Palace of Caid Aissa
has been reduced to ruins
The Palace of Caid Aissa
has been reduced to ruins
Before the eyes of his tribe
But all is well, all is well,
all is well
I struck you down with words,
without a rifle
End of this verse.
One must know
how to begin an Aita...
Ahem!
Ahem!
Sew your hem!
Ahem!
Move aside! Coming through!
Look out!
Move it up.
- Much further?
- Hi, Hassan!
Hi, Fatna.
Grill us some kebabs,
we'll be right there!
Is it much further?
We just got here! Tired already?
Keep walking, Countess.
It's all right, don't worry.
Go easy on the new girl.
Welcome aboard.
Cheers to the horsemen!
My God, my God, my God!
You didn't come to party with me
My God, my God, my God!
Friday and Monday
My God, my God, my God!
The single men have come out
My God, my God, my God!
Friday and Tuesday!
Even the locked-up girls came out!
But you, my darling, you're not here
Whether I live or die,
I'm buried if I don't see you
Oh my beautiful, you're still wild!
But I know you're good
I like it when you read my palm
Always so precise
But this time you made me suffer
- He who smothers...
- His sisters!
- He who smothers...
- His sisters!
- He who whips...
- His wife!
- He who whips...
- His wife!
- It's he who spoils...
- His mistresses!
- It's he who spoils...
- His mistresses!
Go from woman to woman,
you so-and-so
My darling so-and-so!
My love will bewitch you!
And bring you back to me
Whether you like it or not!
Not gonna shake your ass?
- That's all I do!
- Then shake it some more!
The others are raking it in!
I came to sing,
not fill your pockets!
You think you're a real Sheikha?
Because you know 2 verses of Aita!
I tell you when to sing! Got it?
- He who smothers...
- His sisters!
- He who smothers...
- His sisters!
- He who whips...
- His wife!
What a pain in the ass!
- Good morning.
- Morning.
Vehicle registration.
What did I do, Officer?
I was barely doing 50.
Hand over the papers.
I don't have all day.
Who are they?
Sheikhats, Officer.
We were at the Sidi Chenane Fair.
Get out!
Everybody out!
Search the van!
We're artists, Officer.
We've got nothing to hide.
Just tambourines and violins.
We said get out. Now get out.
Come on!
Mustafa, you handle them.
You didn't tell me you'd left.
Why? Are you my father?
And you abandon your son
for three days?
Since when do you care about my son?
Take care of your own kids.
Hold on.
I'm almost done.
Hey!
Are you coming or what?
I'm tired.
Hurry up!
Bravo, you kick ass!
A glass of water, Khalid.
- Everything okay?
- Yeah.
- Do you know anyone in Casa?
- Why do you ask?
I'm moving there, I'll need a job.
God help you.
I've only been to Casa once.
That was enough for me.
But ask Mansour.
The man in the jacket.
He worked there, in a sugar factory.
He moved here recently.
Why move to this shithole?
He must like country chicken.
Why else?
Can I help you?
Good evening.
Sit down, honey.
I'm spoiled tonight.
What are you drinking?
Beer.
A beer!
You're from Casablanca?
You with the secret service or what?
Please don't arrest me!
I confess to everything.
Don't be afraid.
But if you don't answer...
I'll answer.
I'll answer you, sweetheart.
- You from Casa?
- Casa man, born and bred!
You got the style.
Thanks.
I'm going to Casa too.
I'm going to work there.
Good for you.
Where?
I don't know yet.
You're from there, you can help me.
Oh yeah.
Sure, I'll help you.
I'll help you all you want.
Get up. Come on.
Let's see what you can do.
I've heard you sing before.
You're a real Sheikha.
An original. Not an imitation!
Not like the others!
They don't know what they're singing.
Aita is an art!
It's poetry!
You must perform it well.
I love to sing Aita.
Since I was a little girl.
My mother once bought me
a tambourine as a gift.
I've kept it with me ever since.
That's how I learned to sing
and keep time.
On my own.
You knocked on the right door!
I'll put you into orbit!
You're going to be a star!
It's a waste to stay here,
for such a beauty.
I've saved some money.
To be ready on the big day.
I've worked on Aitas for years.
- What?
- I've worked on Aitas for years!
I've worked on Aitas for years!
I see.
Let go!
Let go, bitch!
Let go!
I'm talking about Aita,
you make me feel your balls?
I'll crush them, you bastard!
You crazy whore!
Touda! Let go of him!
Take your hands off me!
Get out! I don't have all day!
Get out of here! You're fired!
Fuck you, asshole.
- She's barred!
- Why?
I said she's barred!
Damn it!
I'll find us a big room.
With large windows.
And a hot shower.
With a toilet just for us.
As soon as I find a place,
I'll come get you.
Okay?
This is it?
You're really going this time?
You're leaving us?
What did you think?
That I'd rot here?
Who will record Aitas for you?
You will. Send them to me.
Rkia,
all the great Sheikhats
went to Casa.
I can sing on real stages there.
Even go on TV one day.
I'm going to make a lot of money.
To take care of my son.
You'll come visit us?
The eyeliner.
For me?
Take care of yourself.
Don't let some guy go to your head.
Don't worry.
Your policeman's waiting downstairs.
Goodbye.
Safe travels.
Come here, big boy.
How are you, father?
Give me that bag.
You're all grown up.
- How is she?
- She's fine.
She stopped taking sugar?
Your mother does as she pleases.
Dad, buy medicine if you need it.
I'll cover it.
God willing, it'll be okay.
Is Boubker home?
He doesn't work. Where should he be?
Great to see him like this.
The white one, over there.
Bring her closer.
Bring the white one closer.
Make them come down.
Come have a drink.
Come and drink.
Keep him away from the well.
Hold his hand in town.
Yassine isn't my first.
I raised 5 kids.
He'll stay for at least 3 months.
Even a year is fine!
Mom...
This is the moment
for me to go try my luck.
Over there
they'll appreciate my Aita.
Not like these rubes here.
I saved enough to get started.
God willing, my daughter.
In Casa,
there's a school for Yassine.
At least he'll have an education.
May God help you
to repair this curse.
That marriage was not a good idea.
There is no curse, Mom.
What's done is done.
I can care for my son.
The country gives him an appetite.
Nothing better
than farm-raised chicken!
Why not leave him here?
He doesn't belong in Casablanca.
He needs country air.
I want him to read and write.
To have a future.
For him and me.
Our future is in Casablanca.
Good evening.
Good evening.
You didn't tell me
the Sheikha was here?
Your sister can come and go
as she likes.
And if you don't like it, stay home.
Eat, eat.
Come here.
Come here, you.
Watch it, watch it!
And now what will I do to you?
Wait and see.
Two...
Three...
Ten!
Mom, have you seen Yassine?
Yes.
He's with your brother.
- Okay, I'm leaving.
- Goodbye, my daughter.
Not scared, are you?
This goes here.
Come on up?
All set?
Taxi!
Follow me.
Let me pass.
- Cabaret Sijelmassa, please.
- All right.
Is there a cheap hotel nearby?
That's all there is.
What time does it open?
What?
The Cabaret Sijelmassa.
It's hasn't opened in 30 years.
A room, please.
For how long?
I don't know.
A month or two.
1,800 dirhams a month.
Half up front.
One flight up, end of the hall.
A beer, please.
Sure.
First time here?
Why?
Just asking.
I'm a singer, looking for work.
Boss around?
I want to talk to him.
Miss, a rose?
What?
Please buy a rose.
Please, only 10 dirhams.
Please, Princess. Just one rose.
Hey gorgeous, wanna join us?
Did the groom bolt?
I can replace him.
You just spread your legs.
Bravo!
You know "What's Wrong With Him"?
"What's Wrong With Him"?
Sure.
Let's get this party started!
Everybody join me!
Come on!
Some leave me alone
Some leave me alone
There are some who leave me alone
And some gossip about me,
just to do me harm
What's wrong with him?
What's wrong with him,
not talking to me?
What's wrong with him?
He saw me,
he looked away
He added to my pain
They said that I led him on
I hardly even looked his way
They said that I led him on
I hardly even looked his way
So what, oh my God
Must I poke out my eyes?
What's wrong with him?
What's wrong with him?
Not talking to me?
What's wrong with him?
He saw me and he looked away,
and he added to my pain
Hey, hey!
Here, one third for you.
Thanks a lot.
Come back tomorrow.
I liked your little act.
If the customers like you,
stay on. OK?
I'll be here.
I also sing Aita.
Good.
Well done.
Is this yours?
Yes.
Touda.
I'm new in Casablanca.
It shows.
It shows you've aged here.
30 years, night after night.
No sick leave, no day off.
Like this violin.
We'll both die on the same day.
We'll meet again.
Before you die.
No ma'am, you don't understand.
We accept everyone,
but your son is 9.
He'll have a hard time fitting in.
Where have you been for so long?
Why not tell me on the phone?
You didn't tell me his age.
I didn't know quite how to say it.
We live in a small town.
There's no school of this kind.
He understands everything.
My son is smart.
I'm experienced. Trust me.
He's not like the other kids.
Why not leave him there?
Family, nature. Isn't that better?
I want him to learn sign language.
It's important.
He wants to be an architect.
Okay, ma'am.
Bring him in, we'll figure it out.
But honestly, it might frustrate him.
He'll be very happy here.
May God bless you.
Why should he be frustrated?
Sorry, madam. I'm a bit busy.
We'll discuss it another time.
Hey, son of my kin
The Doukali is a son of my kin
He's a seducer, son of my kin
Watch out with the blondes,
son of my kin
Bring him back to me,
that son of my kin
I'll put him on my crown,
parade him around town
I'll never slow down
Yes, he's a son of my kin
Oh son of my kin
Watch out with the blondes,
son of my kin
Hang me some fat bills,
son of my kin
Bring me the son of my kin
You, too, are a son of my kin
Oh so generous,
you're all my kin
I put him on my shoulders,
I have nothing to fear
Oh my, oh my!
Son of my kin!
Come on out!
Sing it out!
Dance it out!
Come on out!
Dance it out!
Come on out!
Come on out!
Let it out!
I stuck 500 in my bra,
he didn't notice.
Fuck, you're so damn good!
That prick.
He takes enough as it is...
You bet.
He just bought himself
a fancy new 4WD.
But don't you say a word!
If he finds out, he'll fire me.
You kidding me?
I don't want any trouble.
Look for trouble, you'll find it.
Sure enough.
You can sing.
But?
Rhythm-wise, it's not bad.
But you need to improve
to make money.
It's not just money.
I want to be a real Sheikha.
A Sheikha masters the beat.
I master the beat.
Not even close.
And you're pretentious.
Play with me.
What?
I hardly started. Come on!
Again! I'll keep up with you now.
Why are you huffing and puffing?
Start again.
I go out with him, hand in hand.
He's my sweetheart
I go out with him, hand in hand.
He's my handsome man
I'm scared the girls
will steal him away
He's my true love
I'm scared the girls
will steal him away
He's my true love
I fled my land
so I could free my tongue
And I fear what may come
Let there be no anarchy
and no oppression too
'Til the dawn of the new reign
A new season ushered in,
and better times may begin
I implore you, O my Lord...
Lead us toward the light,
I can no longer bear this plight
I implore you, O my Lord,
lead us toward the light
O savior of the downtrodden
All is well, all is well,
all is well
All is well, all is well,
all is well...
God... is great!
You can keep the furniture.
The woman who was here before you
didn't want it anymore.
Rent is due Saturday.
Saturday.
Not Sunday, not Monday.
Saturday means Saturday.
No men allowed.
This is a respectable house.
The shower and toilet
are down the hallway.
A room like this,
in the city center...
You won't find one at this price.
Look all you want.
I've looked.
Usually,
I don't rent to young, single women.
But you...
You have a son.
That's why I said yes.
- When is he coming?
- Soon.
If you want the room,
give me a 500 dirham
down payment.
Otherwise,
I can't guarantee anything.
Okay, I'll think it over.
It's up to you.
I'll go pray. Be right back.
I'll dilute it, close it,
and you slip it to him.
What's the problem?
Dilute whatever you want.
But not mine.
Keep that big yokel mouth of yours
shut tight!
Do you know where you are?
Where?
In the Sultan's palace?
You do as you're told.
Or you get the hell out.
She thinks she's Umm Kulthum.
Hello.
Mom, I keep calling.
Can't you hear your phone?
I forgot it in the kitchen.
- How is Yassine?
- He's happy, don't worry.
Plays outside all day.
Either with the kids,
or with the goats.
Or he helps your father.
Does he ask about me?
I can't always understand
what he says with his hands.
Okay...
I'm visiting apartments.
I'll come for him soon.
Did you find something good?
- Not bad.
- God help you, my daughter.
Does he eat well?
If only you could see.
He's put on five pounds.
You won't recognize him.
Here, I'll put him on.
There's no need, Mom.
Mom! Mom!
I said don't bother! Wait!
- Here, talk to your mother.
- Mom!
Your mother, your mother.
You should see
how he's jumping with joy.
Here, talk to your mother.
I miss you.
A lot.
Stop!
Ayli, Ayli!
What's he got, my love?
What's he got against me?
Heal me from this pain, Lord
What is this?
Ayli, Ayli!
I would like a world
where hearts are pure
But this world is as it is,
O my Lord
We're here to have fun!
Ayli, Ayli!
What's he got, my love?
What's he got against me?
Get off!
Heal me from this pain, Lord
Where's the manager?
There we are, there we are
Tonight, the horses bring offerings
Enough of this stuff!
What the hell?
You want to put them to sleep?
Play pop tunes!
Pop tunes.
What's he got, my love?
What's he got against me?
I said pop tunes!
Imane! On stage!
Take the mic and sing.
Sorry, the show will resume now.
Take your damn Aita and get off!
Ayli, Ayli!
I'm talking to you!
Get off the stage!
Let go of the mic.
Beat it!
Ayli? You're no singer,
you're a piece of shit!
Fuck off! Out!
And you, on stage!
Touda! Are you insane?
Fucking whore, I'll kill you!
Come here!
Get this trash out of here!
Shame on you! Let go of her!
Give me that!
Fucking bitch!
I like you. Tonight,
you're not leaving this table.
Yes, your grace.
Your grace! You drive me crazy
when you talk like that!
We'll have a blast!
I'm the luckiest man in the world!
You'll see, you'll enjoy this.
You'll love it.
Believe me.
Hey!
Beautiful!
Come talk to me.
Did you change your mind?
How much do you charge?
Money!
I got all the money you want!
Ignoring me?
There are plenty more like you!
Ayli, Ayli!
What's he got, my love?
What's he got against me?
Heal me from this pain, Lord
Ayli, Ayli!
What has he got, my beloved?
What has he got against me?
Heal me from this pain, my beloved
Ayli, Ayli!
Lead us on to victory
Free and defiant, O my love.
Heal me from this pain, Lord
Ayli, Ayli!
I would like a world
where hearts are pure
But this world is as it is,
O my Lord
There we are, there we are...
Tonight, the horses bring offerings
But I can't help it
My beloved
I missed you.
You and I could form a duet.
Why not?
You and I...
We could do big things!
I have an offer for a show this week.
If you'd like to touch the stars...
A big stage.
And a classy crowd.
Sound good?
Welcome, madam.
If you please.
This way.
Touda!
You look nervous.
No.
You'll blow them away.
Come on.
Welcome.
- Seen the time?
- No cabs.
Hurry the fuck up! She's almost done.
One more stanza. Then you're on.
Fadelah Zouitten,
ladies and gentlemen!
What emotion!
Thank you, Fadelah! Thank you!
Thank you, Reda.
Thank you, dear audience!
See you soon!
Good luck to you.
I wasn't sure
if she could make it tonight.
It's your turn, go ahead!
I'm told she just arrived!
Come on!
Please welcome a genuine Sheikha,
a Sheikha from the plains,
with her violinist!
Here she is! Big round of applause!
What's your name?
Touda.
Sheikha Touda!
What will you sing for us,
Sheikha Touda?
It's a surprise.
I love it!
Bravo.
You're simply marvelous!
Bless you!
Listen, come with me,
I'll give you double that.
Don't worry, we'll go get her.
She'll be right back.
Touda!
Where are you going?
Touda!
Wait!
They want you!
Can't you hear them?
Touda!
Don't do this!
A shout that became a chant.
An "Aita".
In the 19th century, the Aita
rose from the plains of Morocco
toward the Atlas Mountains.
For the first time,
women dared to sing it in public
in their villages.
Fighting injustice,
standing up to the powerful,
they sang without shame
or constraint,
celebrating carnal pleasure.
They came to be known as "Sheikhats".
Both idolized and despised,
the modern era
has tried to break them.
But some have fought back,
so the power of their Aita
may continue to resonate...
There we are, there we are!
Tonight, the horses bring offerings
to ask for my hand
Don't hold it against me,
I can't help it, my beloved
Ayli, Ayli!
Come and fight for me.
Soothe my agony
You descend from men free
and defiant, my love.
Ayli, Ayli!
Only a true horseman
knows how to mount a mare
Love is too complex
Let me not speak of it
Ayli, Ayli!
What's he got, my love?
What's he got against me?
It doesn't matter, I can't help it
Don't blame his eyes,
so powerful,
With such a gaze,
I don't care if he's master or slave
I say to those who flee
without seeking to conquer
That the true warriors
gather on the plains of Chaouia
Those warriors of Chaouia
have conquered my heart and soul
Excuse me!
Can I help you, child?
Would you like some music?
No.
Have you eaten?
At Rkia's.
Did she fill your belly
with potatoes again?
Was her tagine yucky, as usual?
That's all she can cook anyway.
Wait.
I'm sorry I didn't take you
to school this morning.
How was your day?
Did those little bastards
bug you again?
Next time,
you grab them by the balls.
And you crush them.
Not like that.
- Got it?
- Yup.
Are you hungry?
Yes.
Want to grab a doughnut?
A buttermilk.
And a Rio.
There you go.
Thank you.
Is it good?
Super!
Think it's that easy to go to Casa?
And without any money?
Relax, I'll have enough.
- And Yassine's school?
- Damn!
I can't even shit in peace
in this place!
As soon as I hear Casa,
I freak out.
Even if you're careful,
thieves on motorcycles
will snatch your bag and take off.
Know how big that city is?
To get from place to place
takes a day.
And if it's cold, or snowing
or pouring rain,
no taxi will stop.
You listening to me or not?
If you're on foot,
you have to read the signs.
So you need to know how to read.
And what's more...
Rkia, I told you I'm leaving.
Period!
And your buttermilk?
You won't find any there.
So what?
I won't die if I don't drink it.
Stop it.
Stop, you'll ruin the fabric.
I'll clean it for you quickly.
You won't be late.
Come on.
Ask me if I'm doing better.
Ask me
Now that he's left me,
don't try to comfort me
Now that he's left me,
don't try to comfort me
Ask me if I'm doing better.
Ask me...
Greetings to Haj Mohamed!
Welcome to our guests from Rabat!
Overthinking has made me weak
and fragile
Overthinking has made me weak
and fragile
How could you forget
how much we loved each other?
How could you forget our love?
Tell me!
Long live the bride and groom!
Let's go, everybody!
And a curse on anyone not dancing!
Wait!
Stop!
- Good morning.
- Good morning.
I don't send you my son
to get bullied.
We do what we can.
We can't watch every child.
So I must accept kids
making fun of him?
Without us,
he'd be on the streets.
Consider yourself lucky.
He's here to learn.
This isn't the place.
He needs a school
adapted to his disability.
My son is not disabled.
Calm down, ma'am.
We've turned a blind eye so far,
but the principal
won't take him next year.
It's best for him to learn a trade.
I want him to be educated.
- Hi there.
- Hi.
Ignoring my calls?
I'm busy.
And right now... you busy?
I'm on a night shift.
I said I'm busy! Can't you see?
Are you sick?
You know I've got
six months left here...
Six months here,
six months there.
That's the life of a cop.
I hope your wife and kids
still know you.
See you next Saturday?
I spend Saturday with my son.
So when?
...to make money.
Start again.
I'm going to sing to make money.
- I'm going to sing...
- To make money.
No. Too complicated for me.
You'll see,
you'll be glad when we talk
and no one else understands.
Do all Sheikhats speak it?
All of them.
It's the Sheikha trademark.
That eyeliner glitters!
Let me see.
You look gorgeous!
God bless you.
You know what I'd like?
Take me into your troupe.
You know I have no troupe.
Go to sleep early!
Don't worry, we're going to party.
She opened it with her mouth,
the slut!
Easy.
Oh yeah?
You're drying out!
You're right.
Waiter! Bring us two beers!
Coming up.
As soon as I get home,
she comes over to sniff my mouth.
I tell her it's just...
the smell of artichoke juice.
Same thing!
Artichoke juice and beer.
Both are Halal!
That's true.
I had 4, he had half a case.
That makes 16.
Here you go.
Next time, give me beer.
Not water.
If you want to dilute,
dilute one bottle, not all of it.
I'm not a jug.
Good evening.
Is that all, Mr. El Maati?
I've been waiting an hour.
I was to go on before her.
It's okay.
You took good care of Mr. Rabie.
He drank like a horse.
Did he offer you lamb
at his butcher shop?
I'm not a whore, I'm a singer.
Little of this, little of that, babe.
No problem.
Once she's done, you go on.
It is a problem
if their pockets are empty.
I don't want to pick up the crumbs.
In any case, I like Hlima.
She keeps it simple.
Grab her tits, her pussy...
As long as they cough up the cash!
Not my fault
the customers come for her.
Thank you,
I hope you enjoyed it.
You guys were great!
I adore you.
Sorry, I didn't see you.
May God strike you blind!
Hlima put you to sleep, right?
Come on, get up everybody!
We're going to have some real fun!
- Bye.
- Bye.
Let's go, Touda.
Are you coming?
Without a helmet, Officer?
Special permission.
Don't make me fall.
If you fall,
the stock market will crash.
Anything new?
I found a school,
but it has shut down.
It says so in the paper.
I printed it out for you.
Read it.
Unfortunately, the Mohammedia School
for the Deaf and Dumb
is shutting its doors
for lack of funding.
What are you telling me
about Mohammedia for?
I said the school in Casablanca.
Talk to them.
I tried, but they won't give me
a straight answer.
I think if you go there,
they'll help you.
Damn them!
- Be right back.
- Okay.
Hello.
What fair do you mean?
The Sidi Chenane Fair.
I've never been there.
It's a huge fair.
People come from all over.
I don't know, I'm busy.
Stay with your butchers!
I'll take another girl.
I called you because that idiot Najat
got knocked up.
There's money to be made
and good food.
If they like you,
they'll call next year.
When is it?
The Palace of Caid Aissa
has been reduced to ruins
The Palace of Caid Aissa
has been reduced to ruins
Before the eyes of his tribe
But all is well, all is well,
all is well
I struck you down with words,
without a rifle
End of this verse.
One must know
how to begin an Aita...
Ahem!
Ahem!
Sew your hem!
Ahem!
Move aside! Coming through!
Look out!
Move it up.
- Much further?
- Hi, Hassan!
Hi, Fatna.
Grill us some kebabs,
we'll be right there!
Is it much further?
We just got here! Tired already?
Keep walking, Countess.
It's all right, don't worry.
Go easy on the new girl.
Welcome aboard.
Cheers to the horsemen!
My God, my God, my God!
You didn't come to party with me
My God, my God, my God!
Friday and Monday
My God, my God, my God!
The single men have come out
My God, my God, my God!
Friday and Tuesday!
Even the locked-up girls came out!
But you, my darling, you're not here
Whether I live or die,
I'm buried if I don't see you
Oh my beautiful, you're still wild!
But I know you're good
I like it when you read my palm
Always so precise
But this time you made me suffer
- He who smothers...
- His sisters!
- He who smothers...
- His sisters!
- He who whips...
- His wife!
- He who whips...
- His wife!
- It's he who spoils...
- His mistresses!
- It's he who spoils...
- His mistresses!
Go from woman to woman,
you so-and-so
My darling so-and-so!
My love will bewitch you!
And bring you back to me
Whether you like it or not!
Not gonna shake your ass?
- That's all I do!
- Then shake it some more!
The others are raking it in!
I came to sing,
not fill your pockets!
You think you're a real Sheikha?
Because you know 2 verses of Aita!
I tell you when to sing! Got it?
- He who smothers...
- His sisters!
- He who smothers...
- His sisters!
- He who whips...
- His wife!
What a pain in the ass!
- Good morning.
- Morning.
Vehicle registration.
What did I do, Officer?
I was barely doing 50.
Hand over the papers.
I don't have all day.
Who are they?
Sheikhats, Officer.
We were at the Sidi Chenane Fair.
Get out!
Everybody out!
Search the van!
We're artists, Officer.
We've got nothing to hide.
Just tambourines and violins.
We said get out. Now get out.
Come on!
Mustafa, you handle them.
You didn't tell me you'd left.
Why? Are you my father?
And you abandon your son
for three days?
Since when do you care about my son?
Take care of your own kids.
Hold on.
I'm almost done.
Hey!
Are you coming or what?
I'm tired.
Hurry up!
Bravo, you kick ass!
A glass of water, Khalid.
- Everything okay?
- Yeah.
- Do you know anyone in Casa?
- Why do you ask?
I'm moving there, I'll need a job.
God help you.
I've only been to Casa once.
That was enough for me.
But ask Mansour.
The man in the jacket.
He worked there, in a sugar factory.
He moved here recently.
Why move to this shithole?
He must like country chicken.
Why else?
Can I help you?
Good evening.
Sit down, honey.
I'm spoiled tonight.
What are you drinking?
Beer.
A beer!
You're from Casablanca?
You with the secret service or what?
Please don't arrest me!
I confess to everything.
Don't be afraid.
But if you don't answer...
I'll answer.
I'll answer you, sweetheart.
- You from Casa?
- Casa man, born and bred!
You got the style.
Thanks.
I'm going to Casa too.
I'm going to work there.
Good for you.
Where?
I don't know yet.
You're from there, you can help me.
Oh yeah.
Sure, I'll help you.
I'll help you all you want.
Get up. Come on.
Let's see what you can do.
I've heard you sing before.
You're a real Sheikha.
An original. Not an imitation!
Not like the others!
They don't know what they're singing.
Aita is an art!
It's poetry!
You must perform it well.
I love to sing Aita.
Since I was a little girl.
My mother once bought me
a tambourine as a gift.
I've kept it with me ever since.
That's how I learned to sing
and keep time.
On my own.
You knocked on the right door!
I'll put you into orbit!
You're going to be a star!
It's a waste to stay here,
for such a beauty.
I've saved some money.
To be ready on the big day.
I've worked on Aitas for years.
- What?
- I've worked on Aitas for years!
I've worked on Aitas for years!
I see.
Let go!
Let go, bitch!
Let go!
I'm talking about Aita,
you make me feel your balls?
I'll crush them, you bastard!
You crazy whore!
Touda! Let go of him!
Take your hands off me!
Get out! I don't have all day!
Get out of here! You're fired!
Fuck you, asshole.
- She's barred!
- Why?
I said she's barred!
Damn it!
I'll find us a big room.
With large windows.
And a hot shower.
With a toilet just for us.
As soon as I find a place,
I'll come get you.
Okay?
This is it?
You're really going this time?
You're leaving us?
What did you think?
That I'd rot here?
Who will record Aitas for you?
You will. Send them to me.
Rkia,
all the great Sheikhats
went to Casa.
I can sing on real stages there.
Even go on TV one day.
I'm going to make a lot of money.
To take care of my son.
You'll come visit us?
The eyeliner.
For me?
Take care of yourself.
Don't let some guy go to your head.
Don't worry.
Your policeman's waiting downstairs.
Goodbye.
Safe travels.
Come here, big boy.
How are you, father?
Give me that bag.
You're all grown up.
- How is she?
- She's fine.
She stopped taking sugar?
Your mother does as she pleases.
Dad, buy medicine if you need it.
I'll cover it.
God willing, it'll be okay.
Is Boubker home?
He doesn't work. Where should he be?
Great to see him like this.
The white one, over there.
Bring her closer.
Bring the white one closer.
Make them come down.
Come have a drink.
Come and drink.
Keep him away from the well.
Hold his hand in town.
Yassine isn't my first.
I raised 5 kids.
He'll stay for at least 3 months.
Even a year is fine!
Mom...
This is the moment
for me to go try my luck.
Over there
they'll appreciate my Aita.
Not like these rubes here.
I saved enough to get started.
God willing, my daughter.
In Casa,
there's a school for Yassine.
At least he'll have an education.
May God help you
to repair this curse.
That marriage was not a good idea.
There is no curse, Mom.
What's done is done.
I can care for my son.
The country gives him an appetite.
Nothing better
than farm-raised chicken!
Why not leave him here?
He doesn't belong in Casablanca.
He needs country air.
I want him to read and write.
To have a future.
For him and me.
Our future is in Casablanca.
Good evening.
Good evening.
You didn't tell me
the Sheikha was here?
Your sister can come and go
as she likes.
And if you don't like it, stay home.
Eat, eat.
Come here.
Come here, you.
Watch it, watch it!
And now what will I do to you?
Wait and see.
Two...
Three...
Ten!
Mom, have you seen Yassine?
Yes.
He's with your brother.
- Okay, I'm leaving.
- Goodbye, my daughter.
Not scared, are you?
This goes here.
Come on up?
All set?
Taxi!
Follow me.
Let me pass.
- Cabaret Sijelmassa, please.
- All right.
Is there a cheap hotel nearby?
That's all there is.
What time does it open?
What?
The Cabaret Sijelmassa.
It's hasn't opened in 30 years.
A room, please.
For how long?
I don't know.
A month or two.
1,800 dirhams a month.
Half up front.
One flight up, end of the hall.
A beer, please.
Sure.
First time here?
Why?
Just asking.
I'm a singer, looking for work.
Boss around?
I want to talk to him.
Miss, a rose?
What?
Please buy a rose.
Please, only 10 dirhams.
Please, Princess. Just one rose.
Hey gorgeous, wanna join us?
Did the groom bolt?
I can replace him.
You just spread your legs.
Bravo!
You know "What's Wrong With Him"?
"What's Wrong With Him"?
Sure.
Let's get this party started!
Everybody join me!
Come on!
Some leave me alone
Some leave me alone
There are some who leave me alone
And some gossip about me,
just to do me harm
What's wrong with him?
What's wrong with him,
not talking to me?
What's wrong with him?
He saw me,
he looked away
He added to my pain
They said that I led him on
I hardly even looked his way
They said that I led him on
I hardly even looked his way
So what, oh my God
Must I poke out my eyes?
What's wrong with him?
What's wrong with him?
Not talking to me?
What's wrong with him?
He saw me and he looked away,
and he added to my pain
Hey, hey!
Here, one third for you.
Thanks a lot.
Come back tomorrow.
I liked your little act.
If the customers like you,
stay on. OK?
I'll be here.
I also sing Aita.
Good.
Well done.
Is this yours?
Yes.
Touda.
I'm new in Casablanca.
It shows.
It shows you've aged here.
30 years, night after night.
No sick leave, no day off.
Like this violin.
We'll both die on the same day.
We'll meet again.
Before you die.
No ma'am, you don't understand.
We accept everyone,
but your son is 9.
He'll have a hard time fitting in.
Where have you been for so long?
Why not tell me on the phone?
You didn't tell me his age.
I didn't know quite how to say it.
We live in a small town.
There's no school of this kind.
He understands everything.
My son is smart.
I'm experienced. Trust me.
He's not like the other kids.
Why not leave him there?
Family, nature. Isn't that better?
I want him to learn sign language.
It's important.
He wants to be an architect.
Okay, ma'am.
Bring him in, we'll figure it out.
But honestly, it might frustrate him.
He'll be very happy here.
May God bless you.
Why should he be frustrated?
Sorry, madam. I'm a bit busy.
We'll discuss it another time.
Hey, son of my kin
The Doukali is a son of my kin
He's a seducer, son of my kin
Watch out with the blondes,
son of my kin
Bring him back to me,
that son of my kin
I'll put him on my crown,
parade him around town
I'll never slow down
Yes, he's a son of my kin
Oh son of my kin
Watch out with the blondes,
son of my kin
Hang me some fat bills,
son of my kin
Bring me the son of my kin
You, too, are a son of my kin
Oh so generous,
you're all my kin
I put him on my shoulders,
I have nothing to fear
Oh my, oh my!
Son of my kin!
Come on out!
Sing it out!
Dance it out!
Come on out!
Dance it out!
Come on out!
Come on out!
Let it out!
I stuck 500 in my bra,
he didn't notice.
Fuck, you're so damn good!
That prick.
He takes enough as it is...
You bet.
He just bought himself
a fancy new 4WD.
But don't you say a word!
If he finds out, he'll fire me.
You kidding me?
I don't want any trouble.
Look for trouble, you'll find it.
Sure enough.
You can sing.
But?
Rhythm-wise, it's not bad.
But you need to improve
to make money.
It's not just money.
I want to be a real Sheikha.
A Sheikha masters the beat.
I master the beat.
Not even close.
And you're pretentious.
Play with me.
What?
I hardly started. Come on!
Again! I'll keep up with you now.
Why are you huffing and puffing?
Start again.
I go out with him, hand in hand.
He's my sweetheart
I go out with him, hand in hand.
He's my handsome man
I'm scared the girls
will steal him away
He's my true love
I'm scared the girls
will steal him away
He's my true love
I fled my land
so I could free my tongue
And I fear what may come
Let there be no anarchy
and no oppression too
'Til the dawn of the new reign
A new season ushered in,
and better times may begin
I implore you, O my Lord...
Lead us toward the light,
I can no longer bear this plight
I implore you, O my Lord,
lead us toward the light
O savior of the downtrodden
All is well, all is well,
all is well
All is well, all is well,
all is well...
God... is great!
You can keep the furniture.
The woman who was here before you
didn't want it anymore.
Rent is due Saturday.
Saturday.
Not Sunday, not Monday.
Saturday means Saturday.
No men allowed.
This is a respectable house.
The shower and toilet
are down the hallway.
A room like this,
in the city center...
You won't find one at this price.
Look all you want.
I've looked.
Usually,
I don't rent to young, single women.
But you...
You have a son.
That's why I said yes.
- When is he coming?
- Soon.
If you want the room,
give me a 500 dirham
down payment.
Otherwise,
I can't guarantee anything.
Okay, I'll think it over.
It's up to you.
I'll go pray. Be right back.
I'll dilute it, close it,
and you slip it to him.
What's the problem?
Dilute whatever you want.
But not mine.
Keep that big yokel mouth of yours
shut tight!
Do you know where you are?
Where?
In the Sultan's palace?
You do as you're told.
Or you get the hell out.
She thinks she's Umm Kulthum.
Hello.
Mom, I keep calling.
Can't you hear your phone?
I forgot it in the kitchen.
- How is Yassine?
- He's happy, don't worry.
Plays outside all day.
Either with the kids,
or with the goats.
Or he helps your father.
Does he ask about me?
I can't always understand
what he says with his hands.
Okay...
I'm visiting apartments.
I'll come for him soon.
Did you find something good?
- Not bad.
- God help you, my daughter.
Does he eat well?
If only you could see.
He's put on five pounds.
You won't recognize him.
Here, I'll put him on.
There's no need, Mom.
Mom! Mom!
I said don't bother! Wait!
- Here, talk to your mother.
- Mom!
Your mother, your mother.
You should see
how he's jumping with joy.
Here, talk to your mother.
I miss you.
A lot.
Stop!
Ayli, Ayli!
What's he got, my love?
What's he got against me?
Heal me from this pain, Lord
What is this?
Ayli, Ayli!
I would like a world
where hearts are pure
But this world is as it is,
O my Lord
We're here to have fun!
Ayli, Ayli!
What's he got, my love?
What's he got against me?
Get off!
Heal me from this pain, Lord
Where's the manager?
There we are, there we are
Tonight, the horses bring offerings
Enough of this stuff!
What the hell?
You want to put them to sleep?
Play pop tunes!
Pop tunes.
What's he got, my love?
What's he got against me?
I said pop tunes!
Imane! On stage!
Take the mic and sing.
Sorry, the show will resume now.
Take your damn Aita and get off!
Ayli, Ayli!
I'm talking to you!
Get off the stage!
Let go of the mic.
Beat it!
Ayli? You're no singer,
you're a piece of shit!
Fuck off! Out!
And you, on stage!
Touda! Are you insane?
Fucking whore, I'll kill you!
Come here!
Get this trash out of here!
Shame on you! Let go of her!
Give me that!
Fucking bitch!
I like you. Tonight,
you're not leaving this table.
Yes, your grace.
Your grace! You drive me crazy
when you talk like that!
We'll have a blast!
I'm the luckiest man in the world!
You'll see, you'll enjoy this.
You'll love it.
Believe me.
Hey!
Beautiful!
Come talk to me.
Did you change your mind?
How much do you charge?
Money!
I got all the money you want!
Ignoring me?
There are plenty more like you!
Ayli, Ayli!
What's he got, my love?
What's he got against me?
Heal me from this pain, Lord
Ayli, Ayli!
What has he got, my beloved?
What has he got against me?
Heal me from this pain, my beloved
Ayli, Ayli!
Lead us on to victory
Free and defiant, O my love.
Heal me from this pain, Lord
Ayli, Ayli!
I would like a world
where hearts are pure
But this world is as it is,
O my Lord
There we are, there we are...
Tonight, the horses bring offerings
But I can't help it
My beloved
I missed you.
You and I could form a duet.
Why not?
You and I...
We could do big things!
I have an offer for a show this week.
If you'd like to touch the stars...
A big stage.
And a classy crowd.
Sound good?
Welcome, madam.
If you please.
This way.
Touda!
You look nervous.
No.
You'll blow them away.
Come on.
Welcome.
- Seen the time?
- No cabs.
Hurry the fuck up! She's almost done.
One more stanza. Then you're on.
Fadelah Zouitten,
ladies and gentlemen!
What emotion!
Thank you, Fadelah! Thank you!
Thank you, Reda.
Thank you, dear audience!
See you soon!
Good luck to you.
I wasn't sure
if she could make it tonight.
It's your turn, go ahead!
I'm told she just arrived!
Come on!
Please welcome a genuine Sheikha,
a Sheikha from the plains,
with her violinist!
Here she is! Big round of applause!
What's your name?
Touda.
Sheikha Touda!
What will you sing for us,
Sheikha Touda?
It's a surprise.
I love it!
Bravo.
You're simply marvelous!
Bless you!
Listen, come with me,
I'll give you double that.
Don't worry, we'll go get her.
She'll be right back.
Touda!
Where are you going?
Touda!
Wait!
They want you!
Can't you hear them?
Touda!
Don't do this!