Malian Filmmaker Souleymane Cissé Passes Away at 84
The world of African cinema mourns the loss of legendary filmmaker Souleymane Cissé, who passed away at the age of 84 in Bamako. His daughter has confirmed the news, marking the end of an era in storytelling.
Described as a visionary director, Cissé dedicated more than fifty years to crafting narratives that intertwined African traditions with political and humanist themes. His unique approach to filmmaking garnered him international acclaim and recognition.
Born in Bamako in 1940, Souleymane Cissé rose to prominence as one of Africa’s most revered filmmakers. His magnum opus, Yeelen (Brightness), released in 1987, drew inspiration from the folklore of the Bambara people and went on to win the prestigious Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival, solidifying his status as a pioneer of African cinema.
In 2023, Cissé was honored with the Carrosse d’Or at Cannes, a prestigious award celebrating filmmakers who have made a lasting impact on the industry. His acceptance speech reflected his unwavering commitment to artistic innovation and growth.
Throughout his illustrious career, Cissé championed the cause of African cinema, advocating for autonomy and independence from external funding sources. In a 2011 interview, he decried the “miserabilist approach” that stifled creativity and innovation in the industry.
His influence extended far beyond his own filmography, as he became one of only two filmmakers to win the grand prize at Burkina Faso’s FESPACO twice. His role as the chair of the jury for the upcoming festival underscored his ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of African storytellers.
Even in his final moments, Cissé remained a vocal advocate for the arts, calling on Mali’s government to support the local film industry. His impassioned plea for the construction of cinemas highlighted his enduring dedication to promoting African voices on the global stage.
As we bid farewell to a true luminary of African cinema, Souleymane Cissé’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of filmmakers and audiences alike. His parting words serve as a poignant reminder of his unwavering passion for the art form: “This is the appeal I make to them before my death, if God wills it.”
