Renowned filmmaker Christopher Nolan has come under fire for choosing to film scenes in the contested region of Western Sahara. The location, Dakhla, is at the heart of a decades-long territorial dispute between Morocco and the Sahrawi people.
Human rights groups and activists have condemned Nolan's decision, arguing that filming in the occupied territory legitimises Morocco's control over the area. The controversy has sparked heated debates on social media and within the film industry.
Why Western Sahara is Controversial
Western Sahara has been a disputed territory since 1975 when Spain withdrew and Morocco annexed the region. The United Nations considers it a non-self-governing territory, with the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic claiming sovereignty.
Several organisations have criticised international companies operating in Western Sahara, viewing their presence as implicit support for Morocco's occupation. Nolan's production now joins this contentious list.
Industry Reactions
Film industry professionals are divided on the issue. Some defend artistic freedom in location choices, while others argue filmmakers have a responsibility to consider geopolitical sensitivities.
The controversy comes as Nolan prepares to release his latest project, though details about the film remain tightly guarded. This isn't the first time the director has faced criticism for location choices, but the political implications of this decision appear particularly significant.
