African Cinematic Triumph: Three Films Shine at 2025 Blackstar Film Festival

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania — Three African films took home prestigious awards at the 2025 Blackstar Film Festival, celebrating the vibrant storytelling and artistic talents emerging from the continent. The festival, which highlights works by filmmakers of African descent, showcased a diverse range of narratives, drawing attention to the unique perspectives and experiences found in African cinema. Among the notable winners was “The Last Tree,” a poignant story that explores themes of identity and belonging through the eyes of a young boy raised in urban England but connected to his Nigerian roots. The film’s powerful portrayal of … Read more

Top Lawyer Admits to Bribery Scheme in Effort to Influence South African Arbitration Outcomes

A senior attorney in South Africa has acknowledged soliciting a bribe from an Italian entrepreneur as part of a scheme to sway government officials in favor of a positive outcome in arbitration proceedings. This admission raises serious concerns about corruption within the legal and governmental systems. The allegations came to light during an investigation that focused on the interactions between legal professionals and business interests. The lawyer’s actions suggest an intersection of private financial incentives with public duty, leading to questions about ethical practices in high-stakes legal environments. Details surrounding the case indicate that the … Read more

Pioneering African Filmmaker Souleymane Cissé Passes Away at 84, Leaving a Legacy of Cinematic Excellence

Bamako, Mali – Renowned Malian filmmaker Souleymane Cisse, celebrated as a cornerstone of African cinema, has passed away at the age of 84. Cisse, whose visionary work has left an indelible mark on the world of film, breathed his last on Wednesday in his home city of Bamako, according to his daughter. Mariam Cisse, the director’s daughter, shared the news of her father’s passing with a heavy heart, noting his lifelong dedication to his nation, the cinematic arts, and broader cultural pursuits. Souleymane Cisse’s death is being mourned deeply within the Mali community and by … Read more

Visionary Malian Director Souleymane Cissé Passes Away at 84, Leaving Behind a Legacy of African Cinema

Bamako, Mali – Souleymane Cissé, one of Africa’s most revered filmmakers, renowned for his richly woven narratives that vividly captured the complexities of African life, passed away at the age of 84. His family confirmed his death on Friday in his home country of Mali, where he had lived and worked for the majority of his life. Cissé, whose career spanned several decades, was a pioneering force in African cinema. He was particularly famous for his 1987 film “Yeelen,” known in English as “Brightness,” which won the prestigious Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival. … Read more