Souleymane Cissé, a legendary figure in the film industry and the first Black African to win the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival, passed away on Wednesday in Bamako, Mali. He was 84 years old. The news of his death was shared by François Margolin, a French film producer and close friend, who revealed that Mr. Cissé was engaged and lively during a press conference earlier that day.
Celebrated Malian Filmmaker Souleymane Cissé Passes Away at 84
Celebrated Malian Filmmaker Souleymane Cissé Passes Away at 84
Malian filmmaker Souleymane Cissé, heralded as a pioneer in African cinema, dies in Bamako following a vibrant career. His work continues to inspire future generations.
It was just after presenting two prizes for the upcoming Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (Fespaco) that Cissé retired to take a nap, never to awaken, according to Margolin. His film career gained international acclaim in 1987 when he released "Yeelen" (meaning "Light" in Bambara), which was awarded the jury prize at Cannes and was a nominee for best foreign film at the Spirit Awards in 1989. Notably, renowned director Martin Scorsese praised "Yeelen" as one of the most transformative experiences of his cinematic journey.
Cissé remained active in the industry until his last days, traveling across the globe and continuing to work on film projects. His contributions to African cinema have been vital in raising awareness and appreciation for the continent's rich storytelling tradition.
Cissé remained active in the industry until his last days, traveling across the globe and continuing to work on film projects. His contributions to African cinema have been vital in raising awareness and appreciation for the continent's rich storytelling tradition.
