Souleymane Cissé : an unforgettable legacy
Malian filmmaker Souleymane Cissé, a leading figure in African cinema, has passed away at the age of 84. From his early steps as a director to his global influence, Cissé has marked the history of film and left an indelible legacy.
Malian filmmaker Souleymane Cissé, one of the most iconic figures in African cinema, passed away on February 19, 2025, in Bamako at the age of 84. Recognized internationally for his work and commitment to African cinema, Cissé has left an indelible mark on the world of film. His daughter, Mariam Cissé, confirmed the news, expressing her sorrow over the loss of « a man who dedicated his life to cinema and art. » The cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Born on April 21, 1940, in Bamako, Cissé was a pioneer of African cinema. His career, spanning over 50 years, was marked by films that captured the soul of Africa, its struggles, hopes, and social realities. His 1987 film Yeelen (The Light), which tells the initiatory journey of a young man from the Bambara ethnic group, won the prestigious Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival. Cissé became the first Sub-Saharan African filmmaker to receive such an honor at this prestigious event.
Souleymane Cissé began his filmmaking career in the 1970s. In 1975, he made Den Muso (The Young Girl), a daring film about the tragic fate of a young girl who is rejected by her family after being raped. This first feature was not only banned by Malian authorities but also led to Cissé’s imprisonment for accepting French funding. It was during his imprisonment that he wrote the script for Baara (Work), a film criticizing the exploitation of workers.
Throughout his career, Cissé explored diverse themes ranging from politics to human condition, love, revolt, and justice. Films like Finyè (The Wind, 1981) and Waati (Time, 1995) focused on social realities and political tensions across Africa.
Cissé was honored multiple times for his work. In 2023, he received the Carrosse d’Or at Cannes, a special prize awarded to filmmakers who have marked cinema history with their boldness and artistic rigor. This prestigious award was a renewed acknowledgment of his global influence on cinema. He had also received the Grand Prix at Fespaco, Africa’s most important film festival, twice.
Beyond his directorial career, Souleymane Cissé was a staunch advocate for African cinema. He often criticized the lack of support from African governments for the film industry. He campaigned for greater independence and local investment in film production. In 2025, just before his passing, he urged the Malian government to help filmmakers make their works visible to the world, particularly by building cinemas and supporting young directors.
Cissé was also one of the founders of the West African Filmmakers Syndicate, an organization that worked to promote African cinema on the international stage. He firmly believed that African filmmakers should stop relying on foreign funding and focus on developing a self-sustaining industry capable of competing with global cinema powers.
A Man of Humanity and Conviction
Cissé’s films are a profound exploration of the social realities of Africa. Yeelen (1987), his masterpiece, tells the story of a young man with mystical powers who must escape his father to avoid a tragic fate. The film was praised by filmmakers like Martin Scorsese, who listed it among his favorite films. Cissé’s humanistic and critical view of Malian and African society has inspired many generations of filmmakers and audiences.
Cissé was not only a director but also a mentor to many young African filmmakers. His commitment to African storytelling and his ability to address deep and complex issues with sensitivity and humor made him a respected figure in the film world.
Souleymane Cissé’s death is a tragic loss for African cinema. He leaves behind an invaluable cinematic legacy, as well as a clear vision of what the future of cinema on the continent should look like. The Malian Minister of Culture, Mamou Daffé, expressed his sadness, emphasizing that Cissé will remain « a monument to African cinema. » Other African film figures, like Malian director Boubacar Sidibé, have paid tribute to his immeasurable contribution to African culture and heritage.
Souleymane Cissé will be remembered not only for his films but also for his commitment to building an independent and flourishing film industry in Africa. As Fespaco 2025 approaches, the festival he was due to preside over, his ideas will continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers.
Souleymane Cissé’s legacy lives on through his films, his ideas, and his influence on the African film industry. From Den Muso (1975) to Waati (1995), each film tells an essential story about Africa, enriched by the continent’s challenges, realities, and hopes. His influence stretches far beyond Mali and Africa, with international recognition placing him among the greatest filmmakers in the world.
Cissé showed that cinema could be a powerful tool for telling authentic African stories and influencing global perceptions of the continent. African cinema has lost one of its greatest masters, but his legacy will continue to shine in cinemas and in the hearts of film lovers worldwide.
