Rumors and speculations have surrounded the recent accident on the set of Gladiator 2 in Ouarzazate, Morocco, raising concerns about the safety of film crews and prompting a response from Abdelatif Baghdi, a municipal council advisor.
Baghdi described the incident to Hespress as “minor and not as catastrophic as it was portrayed,” adding, “it is normal for such incidents to occur on film sets.”
He explained that “a minor fire broke out inside the studio where the filming of Gladiator 2 was taking place, but the crew quickly took control of the situation and extinguished the fire immediately.”
Baghdi expressed his disapproval of the circulation of rumors that do not serve the interests of the region, which attracts thousands of directors and producers from all over the world.
“Certain parties have specific motives to spread such false news, especially after the production company chose Ouarzazate for shooting this massive artistic project, which was sought after by countries like Tunisia and Qatar,” he said.
The spokesperson also refuted news regarding unpaid wages, emphasizing that “all the workers belong to the local community surrounding the film shooting location, and their financial dues are paid on a weekly basis.
Approximately 2,000 families from within and outside the region have benefited from the project. He said that “the wages they receive are significant and provide convenient conditions for them.” The filming has managed to save a group of young people from unemployment by providing them with job opportunities.
“The production company has organized the process with international standards and relied on the local workforce to solve its problems, with enhanced security measures. This has contributed to boosting the region’s economy,” Baghdi said.
This is of great significance considering the migration that has occurred in the southeastern region in recent years due to living conditions and the closure of hotels and cafes during the crisis.
After a period of stagnation experienced by Ouarzazate in recent years due to the outbreak of coronavirus, the film “Gladiator 2” has revived the city. The city had previously witnessed a high surge of international production companies specializing in shooting films and series.
Baghdi expressed his delight, saying, “Filming began more than five months ago, and it is a happy occasion for Moroccans, especially since it is a globally renowned work that adds a lot to the prestige of Hollywood in Morocco.”
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