Souleymane Cissé, Pioneering Malian Filmmaker, Passes Away at 84

Souleymane Cissé, the venerated Malian filmmaker known for advancing African cinema, died on Wednesday at 84. Famous for his 1987 film "Yeelen," which won prestigious awards, Cissé remained active in filmmaking until his last moments.

Souleymane Cissé, a legendary figure in the world of film, passed away on Wednesday in Bamako, Mali, at the age of 84. His death was confirmed by François Margolin, a close friend and French film producer who noted Cissé’s robust health and ongoing engagement with the cinematic community up until the end. Cissé's passion for filmmaking and African culture propelled him to international acclaim, particularly recognized for his groundbreaking work "Yeelen" (“Light”), which premiered in 1987. The film not only captured the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival but also earned a nomination for Best Foreign Film at the Spirit Awards in 1989.

Events leading up to his death were marked with activity; just hours before his passing, Cissé attended a news conference to present two awards prior to the prestigious Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou, commonly known as Fespaco. Witnesses recall him exhibiting his characteristic humor and vitality during the session. Tragically, after taking a brief nap post-conference, he did not awaken.

Cissé’s legacy as the first Black African filmmaker to win the Cannes Jury Prize has inspired countless directors throughout the African continent and beyond. His commitment to portraying the depth and richness of African narratives has left an indelible mark on global cinema. Esteemed filmmaker Martin Scorsese praised "Yeelen," describing it as “one of the great revelatory experiences of my moviegoing life,” affirming Cissé's influence on both audiences and peers alike. Cissé’s dedication to his craft and his advocacy for African cinema will be remembered as a significant part of his legacy.