Film enthusiasts, students, and creatives in Accra, get ready for an exclusive experience as the prestigious Berlinale Spotlight Screening makes its African debut! From November 13th to 18th, 2024, the University of Media, Arts, and Communication (UniMAC-IFT) will host this exciting event, bringing some of the best global films to the campus.
This unique screening initiative will not only showcase award-winning films but will also provide an opportunity for film lovers, critics, and budding filmmakers to engage in insightful panel discussions and deepen their understanding of cinematic art. Whether you’re a student, filmmaker, or simply a fan of great movies, this is a chance you don’t want to miss!
This initiative not only brings cutting-edge global cinema to Africa but also strives to reconnect African audiences with the powerful stories being told across the world. At this year’s Berlinale, 14 African films were featured, most co-produced with European nations. Now, for the first time, a selection of these films will be screened in Accra, offering a rare opportunity to experience African cinema on a global stage.
The Films:
The Berlinale Spotlight will present seven remarkable films, each exploring vital themes like identity, post-colonial struggles, and the human condition:
- Who Do I Belong To? (Tunisia/Canada) – A powerful first feature by Meryam Joobeur about the role of women in a predominantly Islamic society.
- Dahomey (Benin/France) – Directed by Mati Diop, this film delves into cultural identity through a debate among university students in Benin.
- The Nights Still Smell of Gun Powder (Mozambique/Germany) – A compelling debut by Inadelso Cossa about the lingering wounds of civil war.
- Black Tea (Taiwan/Côte d’Ivoire/Cape Verde/China) – A thought-provoking film by Abderrahmane Sissako exploring migration and African-Chinese relationships.
- Disco Afrika (Madagascar/Germany) – Luck Razanajaona’s debut feature addresses corruption and the complexities of post-colonial Africa.
- Certain Winds from the South (Ghana) – Eric Gyamfi’s directorial debut, exploring gender roles, migration from rural to urban areas, and the tension between traditional family structures.
- Letter from My Village (Senegal) – A poignant film by Safi Faye, reflecting on the connections between people and their land.
These films tackle a wide array of themes, from the struggles of migration and the impact of civil war to the exploration of gender roles, cultural identity, and spirituality. Dahomey sparks discussions on the essence of cultural identity, while Disco Afrika and The Nights Still Smell of Gun Powder take on the legacies of corruption and war. Meanwhile, Who Do I Belong To? highlights the challenges women face in conservative societies, and Certain Winds from the South explores generational divides and gender expectations.
Panel Discussions:
In addition to the screenings, the event will feature three engaging panel discussions centered around the themes of the films. These discussions will offer attendees the chance to engage with filmmakers and experts on topics such as identity, gender, migration, and post-colonial struggles.
Venue Information:
Screenings will be held at various venues, including the NAFTI Hostel, the NAFTI Studio, and the Goethe-Institute.
The Berlinale Spotlight Screening represents a unique opportunity to celebrate African cinema and engage in meaningful conversations about the issues that shape our world. This event, made possible by Falcon, IFT, and GAFTA, promises to be an unforgettable experience for film lovers, students, and cultural enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic moment in Accra—join us, invite your friends and family, and immerse yourself in the power of storytelling from across Africa and beyond!
