RABAT, Nov. 30 (Xinhua) -- The 17th edition of Marrakesh International Film Festival kicked off on Friday night in the presence of numerous stars from Morocco, Arab region and the world.

This year's edition was opened by the screening of the movie of U.S. painter and filmmaker Julian Schnabel At Eternity's Gate.

Until Dec. 8, the festival will screen more than 80 films from 29 countries.

In addition to 14 films in the official competition, the other line-up will be divided into several sections, including the 11th Continent, a new section to discover sharp and bold cinema, Moroccan Panorama, Gala Screenings, Jamaa El-Fna Square Screenings, and Audio-described Cinema.

The festival's jury of nine members is chaired by British filmmaker James Gray.

Created in 2001 by the Moroccan King Mohammed VI, the Moroccan landmark festival aims to promote arts and the film industry in the North African country.