To condense the diversity and vitality of Senegalese cinema into a selection of around ten films is undoubtedly an impossible task.

The programming, proposed by the Carthage Film Festival as part of the « Senegal, Guest Country » event, seeks to embody the essence carried by a cinema that has maintained its pioneering position within the continent, constantly opening itself to universal themes while reinforcing its roots in national distinctiveness.

This program aims to provide a panoramic image of this captivating experience, echoing the significant cultural challenges of today, encompassing both the industrial and aesthetic aspects.

The various generations that have shaped the history of Senegalese cinema are represented. Firstly, the works of the pioneers such as Ababacar Samb Makharam and Sembène Ousmane. With the latter, cinema became a tool for combat and education, serving as an « evening school » for the people. His approach and highly political discourse have inspired numerous African filmmakers.

The new generation has moved away from the dialectical approach to give the Senegalese cinematic experience an often fascinating emotional and urban dimension, detached from communal imperatives. Works of profound lyrical density have emerged, owing much to the incandescent cinema of Dibril Diop, with authors such as Alain Gomis or Joseph Gay Ramaka.

The films of young filmmakers from the diaspora, such as Mati Diop or Alassane Diago, have undeniably garnered international success and continue to deepen the path of a creative and socially engaged cinema…