By Africa Links 24
Published on 2024-02-29 04:00:00
The red carpet is unrolled with beaming guests, dressed impeccably, strolling up and down, smiling for the cameras and greeting fans. This glamorous scene may not be the Oscars, but the 32nd Pan African Film & Arts Festival, held in Los Angeles, California from 6 to 19 February, is just as star-studded and prestigious.
Established in 1992 by Danny Glover, the late Ja’Net DuBois, and Ayuko Babu, the festival serves as an international beacon for the diaspora arts community. Its mission is to preserve the cinematic creativity of pan-African culture and to tell its untold stories. The festival brings together the biggest names in African cinema annually, showcasing talent and celebrating success. However, the red carpet at the 2024 festival has a notable difference from its earlier years in the 1990s and 2000s — the presence of talented female directors making their mark in the industry.
Among these directors is Apolline Traoré, whose film “Sira” has garnered critical acclaim since its release in 2023. The film follows the story of a young woman abducted by Islamist terrorists while traveling to her wedding, showcasing themes of survival, courage, resilience, and revenge. Traoré’s work has received industry accolades, including the Berlinale Panorama Award for Best Feature and being chosen as Burkina Faso’s entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 2024 Oscars.
Describing her work as “a story of resistance, of never giving up,” Traoré drew inspiration from real events in Burkina Faso to create “Sira.” Her determination to give voice to the stories of women affected by conflict led her to scout locations and cast local actors for the film, despite facing challenges during filming.
The rise of female filmmakers in African cinema is changing the landscape of storytelling by addressing gender inequality and abuse faced by African women. Amina Abdoulaye Mamani, a Nigerien filmmaker, highlights the power and resilience of women in the face of jihadist violence in her film “Envoy of God,” showcasing the plight of women in conflict situations.
At the Pan African Film & Arts Festival, Kambili Ofili’s film “Shaping Us” explores the struggles of pregnancy from a modern African woman’s perspective. Through authentic storytelling, Ofili delves into the complexities of relationships and childbearing difficulties, reflecting her personal experiences and observations.
Notable figures like Mosunmola “Mo” Abudu, Wanuri Kahiu, and Funke Akindele are making significant contributions to African cinema with their groundbreaking work. Abudu, described as Africa’s most successful female producer, has produced high-grossing films and established a media conglomerate with international partnerships. Kahiu’s film “Rafiki” broke barriers by featuring a love story between two Kenyan girls, challenging societal norms and advocating for LGBTQ rights.
The global impact of African female filmmakers is evident in the resonance of their stories with audiences worldwide. By reclaiming narratives and redefining the image of Africa on screen, these directors are pushing boundaries and advocating for social change. The future of African film is undoubtedly female, with directors championing diverse perspectives and championing underrepresented communities through their powerful storytelling.
