Paris became the epicenter of African cinema last weekend as the fourth edition of African Cinema Days captivated audiences with a dynamic mix of film screenings, lively debates, and electrifying performances. Organized by Cinewax and Cinémathèque Afrique, the three-day festival drew over 600 attendees, shining a spotlight on Côte d’Ivoire’s rich cinematic legacy while sparking conversations about its future.
A Nostalgic opening night
The festivities kicked off at Club de l’Étoile with a special screening of Henri Duparc’s 1989 classic Bal Poussière, freshly restored for the occasion. The beloved Ivorian comedy drew an emotional crowd, blending laughter and nostalgia as viewers revisited a film that shaped Francophone African cinema.
From classics to contemporary debates
The festival’s lineup spanned decades, featuring gems like Timité Bassori’s La Femme au Couteau (1969) and Fadika Kramo-Lanciné’s Wariko, le gros lot (1994)—films drawn from Cinémathèque Afrique’s vast archive of 1,800+ works.
A thought-provoking panel, “Côte d’Ivoire: The New Hub of African Cinema?”, brought together filmmakers and actors to discuss the country’s growing influence.
« There’s increasing institutional support and even collaborations with Anglophone industries—exciting times ahead, » noted actor-director Olivier Kissita.
Music, Laughter, and a Grand Finale
The closing night at La Machine du Moulin Rouge was pure magic: a Meiway concert had the crowd dancing to Zoblazo rhythms, while comedian Sacko Camara kept spirits high. Earlier, children’s laughter filled the room during screenings of animated favorites like Akissi and Aya de Yopougon.
With its winning mix of art, heritage, and celebration, African Cinema Days 2025 proved once again why it’s a must-attend event for film lovers—and a powerful platform for Africa’s cinematic renaissanc
