Legacy of Pioneering Malian Filmmaker Souleymane Cissé Ends at 84

Cissé's impactful work and advocacy have left an indelible mark on the continent's film industry.

Souleymane Cissé, a monumental figure in African cinema, has passed away at the age of 84. His daughter, Mariam Cissé, confirmed the news of his death which occurred in a clinic in Bamako, Mali's capital, expressing profound grief over the loss of a father who "committed his life to film and art." The cause of his passing remains undisclosed.

Achieving international acclaim in 1987, Cissé’s film "Yeelen" (The Light) won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival, making him the first filmmaker from sub-Saharan Africa to earn such an honor at the renowned festival. His illustrious career has spanned over five decades, during which he received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Carrosse d'Or award from Cannes in 2023, recognized for his impactful contributions to cinema.

Cissé was also celebrated at the biannual Pan-African Film Festival, Fespaco, having won the grand prize twice. Just days before his death, he was set to travel to Burkina Faso to chair the jury at the same festival opening on Saturday, underscoring his ongoing commitment to cinema.

The film community is reflecting upon Cissé's enduring legacy, known for his works marked by depth, political engagement, and an exploration of the human experience. His debut feature, "Den Muso" (The Young Girl) released in 1975, stood as an African classic, tackling themes of gender violence and societal rejection, which led to its banning in Mali and Cissé's imprisonment over funding issues.

In addition to "Den Muso," he directed films such as "Finyè" (The Wind) in 1981 and his last project, "Waati" (Time), released in 1995. Born in Bamako and having spent part of his childhood in Senegal, Cissé studied film in Moscow, emerging as a prominent voice in the film industry. He fervently advocated for support and investment in cinema, leading the establishment of a union for West African cinema and audiovisual entrepreneurs.

Cissé was vocal about the challenges faced by African cinema, arguing against censorship and the need for financial independence from European influence. Hours before his passing, reports indicated he encouraged Mali's military government to aid the country's film industry in competing with peers across the continent, emphasizing the necessity for visibility for their works. “It is not enough to make cinema; the works must also be visible," he stated, urging authorities to invest in the construction of cinemas in Mali.

As tributes continue to flow in from across Africa, Cissé’s legacy as a pioneering filmmaker and ardent advocate for African storytelling remains vital to the fabric of the continent's cinematic journey.