They are Biblical refugees, ISIS fighters and Tibetan monks. They have built pyramids, marched under the beating sun or battled the American army, facing plagues, hunger and persecution for a paltry 25 euros per day. Far from the glittering world of Hollywood, they are the unsung heroes of cinema.
© Matilde Gattoni
Within the narrow alleys of a centuries-old Kasbah, in the heart of an enchanting oasis in the Moroccan desert, live a myriad of background actors who have featured in hundreds of world-acclaimed movies, documentaries and TV series such as James Bond, Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Although they have played alongside top celebrities during their decade-long careers, no-one knows their names.
Most live a life of hardship, working 16 hours per day and ending up with no money to secure their old age, with a handful of yellowed photos as the only souvenir of a glorious past. Yet, the passion they show for their profession is the most touching and sincere testimony to the greatness of cinema. Each night, as they leave the sumptuous sets and venture back to their crumbling houses with their hearts full of hope and pride, they dream of becoming the next international star.
Story produced together with photographer Matilde Gattoni. Text and pictures available