African Cinema: Manifesto and Practice for Cultural Decolonization: Volume 1: Colonial Antecedents, Constituents, Theory, and Articulations

This three-volume set challenges traditional views and assumptions about filmmaking in the African diaspora by offering a researched critique on black film. Volume One covers the ideological project of colonial film, its counter-historical formation, and the contributions of African women in cinema, while Volume Two explores the aesthetics and politics of black film. Volume Three pays tribute to Ousmane Sembène, the Father of African cinema.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 616 pages
Publication date: 29 August 2023
Publisher: Indiana University Press

This three-volume set, a groundbreaking exploration of African cinema, challenges prevailing notions and assumptions about the traditions and practices of filmmaking within the African diaspora. Volume One, the first installment of this landmark series, brings together a comprehensive collection of foundational scholarship on the history and evolution of African cinema. Spanning from the ideological project of colonial film to its counter-historical formation and theorization, this volume offers insightful essays by renowned film scholars and filmmakers, including Roy Armes, Med Hondo, Fèrid Boughedir, Haile Gerima, Oliver Barlet, Teshome Gabriel, and David Murphy. Additionally, it includes three distinct dossiers: a timeline of significant dates in the history of African cinema, a comprehensive chronicle highlighting the contributions of African women in cinema, and a tribute to Ousmane Sembène, widely regarded as the Father of African cinema.

The first dossier, titled "A Timeline of Key Dates in the History of African Cinema," provides a chronological framework for understanding the development of African cinema. It encompasses pivotal moments, such as the introduction of cinema to Africa during the colonial era, the emergence of African film industries, and the growth of African cinema in the post-colonial period. This timeline offers a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike, allowing them to trace the evolution of African cinema and its impact on global cinema.

The second dossier, titled "A Comprehensive Chronicle and Account of the Contributions by African Women in Cinema," delves into the significant roles played by African women in the film industry. It highlights the achievements, challenges, and contributions of African women filmmakers, actors, and producers across different genres and periods. This dossier underscores the importance of gender equality and representation in the film industry and provides a platform for celebrating the contributions of African women to the art of filmmaking.

The third dossier, titled "A Homage and Overview of Ousmane Sembène, the Father of African Cinema," pays tribute to the pioneering work of Ousmane Sembène, a Senegalese filmmaker who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in African cinema. It includes an overview of Sembène's life and career, a discussion of his significant films, and a reflection on his enduring legacy. This dossier serves as a tribute to Sembène's contributions to African cinema and his role in shaping the narrative and aesthetics of African films.

In conclusion, this three-volume set on African cinema offers a comprehensive and critical exploration of the history, traditions, and practices of filmmaking within the African diaspora. Volume One, with its foundational scholarship and diverse perspectives, sets the stage for the subsequent volumes to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of African cinema. By challenging established views and assumptions, this set contributes to a broader understanding of the cultural and artistic significance of African films and their impact on global cinema.

Weight: 888g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780253066213