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African cinema continues to enchant global audiences through its vibrant storytelling, engaging characters, and varied narratives. The following films, released between 2023 and 2024, highlight the depth and variety of African filmmaking. ALSO READ: Eight cycling classics, new releases to stream ahead of UCI race Killer Music Killer Music, Rwanda’s first-ever musical thriller, had its debut at Century Cinema Kigali on September 14, marking a significant moment for East African cinema. Produced by Sakara Production and directed by Anirban Mitra, this film combines crime, suspense, and music in an innovative narrative that showcases Rwanda’s creative aspirations. The plot follows sisters Sine and Mwiza as they rise from the slums of Kigali to fame, only to face conflict with Shannon, the daughter of a powerful tycoon. Jealousy leads to tragedy, resulting in murder, imprisonment, and unexpected alliances. Music becomes their tool for survival, salvation, and redemption as hidden truths and betrayals emerge. Written and executive produced by Mighty Popo, Killer Music is a pioneering blend of crime drama and musical spectacle. Ibyahishuwe A long-lost diary reveals family secrets in Ibyahishuwe, the latest film from director Roger Niyoyita, produced by Zacu Entertainment. In collaboration with Niyo Films & More, the film will premiere in October exclusively on Zacu TV, later appearing at international film festivals. At its heart, Ibyahishuwe examines the heavy cost of silence. The story centers on a family forced to confront hidden truths when the forgotten diary resurfaces, blurring the lines between love, trust, and betrayal. As past and present merge, it shows how unspoken pain can echo across generations. Sira Directed by Apolline Traoré, Sira is a compelling drama about a young nomadic woman who, after a brutal attack, refuses to be a victim. Instead, she stands up against terror, embodying resilience and courage. The film premiered at the 73rd Berlin International Film Festival, where it won the Panorama Audience Award for Best Feature Film. It was also chosen as Burkina Faso’s entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 96th Academy Awards. The film features a talented cast, including Nafissatou Cissé, Mike Danon, and Lazare Minoungou. Their performances add depth to a narrative exploring themes of survival, identity, and the strength of the human spirit. ALSO READ: True story movies you shouldn’t miss Mami Wata Directed by C.J. “Fiery” Obasi, Mami Wata is a black-and-white fantasy thriller inspired by West African folklore. The film tells the story of a community grappling with tradition and change, examining themes of power, belief, and identity. It premiered at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival and was selected as Nigeria’s entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 96th Academy Awards. The film features a strong cast, including Evelyne Ily Juhen, Uzoamaka Aniunoh, and Kelechi Udegbe, whose performances bring the mythical story to life. Banel & Adama Banel & Adama, directed by Ramata-Toulaye Sy, is a romantic drama that explores the complexities of love and tradition in a rural African community. The film follows the relationship between Banel and Adama, whose love is tested by societal expectations and personal desires. It premiered at the 76th Cannes Film Festival and was selected as Senegal’s entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 96th Academy Awards. The film stars Khady Mane and Mamadou Diallo, whose performances capture the emotional depth of their characters’ journey. Take My Breath Directed by Nada Mezni Hafaiedh, Take My Breath is a thriller drama about Shams, a young seamstress with an intersex identity, who faces societal rejection and personal turmoil. The film explores themes of identity, desire, and the human condition. It was Tunisia’s entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards. The film features a powerful performance by Fatma Ben Saïdane, whose portrayal of Shams brings depth and empathy to the character. ALSO READ: Eight animations you shouldn’t miss this weekend The Planter’s Plantation The Planter’s Plantation, directed by Eystein Young Dingha, is a musical drama that serves as an allegory for neocolonization. The film tells the story of a plantation owner who wrestles with the moral consequences of his actions and their impact on the community. It was Cameroon’s entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2023 Academy Awards. The film features performances by Nimo Loveline, Nkem Owoh, and Stephanie Tum, whose portrayals bring the complex narrative to life. On Becoming a Guinea Fowl Directed by Rungano Nyoni, On Becoming a Guinea Fowl is a black comedy that delves into themes of denial, trauma, and patriarchal complicity in Zambian society. The film follows Shula, who discovers her uncle Fred’s body after a party. As funeral rites begin, Shula’s emotional detachment reveals a deeper family and societal secret. The film explores how cultural silence and entrenched patriarchal traditions suppress painful truths. Susan Chardy plays the lead role, capturing the emotional complexity of her character. Gangs of Lagos Directed by Jade Osiberu, Gangs of Lagos is a gripping thriller that follows the lives of three friends—Obalola, Gift, and Panama—as they navigate crime and survival in Lagos’ notorious underbelly. The film explores themes of poverty, crime, and the effects of poor governance. It was the first African original production from Amazon Prime. The film stars Tobi Bakre and Adesua Etomi, whose performances add depth to their complex characters. Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti Directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters, this biopic brings to life the story of one of Nigeria’s most influential women. The film portrays Funmilayo not just as an activist and educator, but also as a mother and wife dealing with personal sacrifices. The scene where she leads the Abeokuta Women’s Union in protest is particularly moving, capturing the raw energy and determination that made her a formidable figure. The film features a talented cast, including Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, whose portrayal adds depth and authenticity to the character. Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti is a powerful tribute to a woman who played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s history. A Night In 2005 Directed by Temidayo Makanjuola, A Night in 2005 is a nostalgic drama that takes viewers back to the year 2005, exploring the lives of its characters during that time. The film delves into themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. It has been recognized as one of the best Nollywood films of 2024. The film features a talented cast, whose performances bring the early 2000s era to life.

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