Souleymane Cisse, the Malian director whose visionary films earned him the title of “father of African cinema,” died Wednesday in Bamako at the age of 84, his daughter told AFP.
Cisse’s trailblazing career spanned more than half a century, marked by a deep commitment to African storytelling, profound humanism, and unwavering political engagement. His films, including “Den Muso” (The Girl), “Finyè” (The Wind), “Yeelen” (Brightness), and “Waati” (Time), often explored themes of tradition, modernity, and the struggles of ordinary people in the face of social and political change.
“Papa died today in Bamako. We are all in shock. He dedicated all his life to his country, to cinema and to art,” said Mariam Cisse.
Cisse achieved international acclaim with “Yeelen,” a visually stunning film drawing on Bambara legends, which won the jury prize at the 1987 Cannes Film Festival. In 2023, Cannes again honored him with the Carrosse d’Or, recognizing his immense contribution to cinema history.
His influence on African cinema is immeasurable. He inspired countless filmmakers with his unique visual style and his dedication to telling authentic African stories. Fellow Malian director Boubacar Sidibe mourned the loss of “this monument of African cinema.”
Cisse was a vocal advocate for independent African filmmaking. He often criticized the reliance on European funding, arguing that it led to a “miserabilist approach” and hampered the development of truly African narratives. He believed that greater financial independence would allow young filmmakers to tell their own stories without external influence.
A two-time winner of the grand prize at FESPACO, the Panafrican Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou, one of Africa’s most prestigious film festivals, Cisse was due to head the jury at the festival’s upcoming edition. FESPACO plays a vital role in showcasing and promoting African cinema.
Even on his deathbed, Cisse remained committed to the future of Malian cinema. He urged the country’s military leaders to support the industry, emphasizing the need for cinemas to screen African films. “This is the appeal I make to them before my death, if God wills it,” he said. His legacy as a pioneer and champion of African cinema will live on for generations to come.”