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Cascade Festival of African Films celebrates 35th anniversary with nearly two dozen films

Story by Misty Bouse. Submitted photos.

The , the longest-running African film festival in the U.S., is set to celebrate its 35th anniversary at С��è��ý with a lineup of more than 20 films from 14 countries.

The free and volunteer-run film festival raises its curtain at 6:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 31, at the Hollywood Theatre and runs through March 1 at С��è��ý’s Cascade Campus in celebration of Black History Month.

“As always, our popular programming remains free and open to the public, ensuring accessibility for all,” said Festival Director Eugénie Jolivett Fontana. “This festival is so loved by the community because it shows Africa through African lenses. It’s the stories from African people and its diaspora that make this festival so unique.”

She and Assistant Festival Director Brook Ramirez, along with the many volunteers who work behind the scenes, are ready to welcome attendees to this year’s celebration. The grand opening will feature a live musical performance followed by the screening of “Everybody Loves Touda” by Moroccan director Nabil Ayouch. This film explores themes of determination and dignity amidst societal barriers and will conclude with an engaging Q&A session. Doors open at 6 p.m., and seating is first come, first served.

This year’s theme, “Legacy,” emphasizes the enduring cultural contributions and adversities of Africa through its art, photography and storytelling, according to Jolivett Fontana. One highlight on Friday, Feb. 14, at the is the showcase of “�ݲ���é (The Childhood Wounds),” a film by acclaimed Senegalese director Moussa Sène Absa, who will be in-person for an intimate Q&A. The festival will honor Absa’s artistry with a retrospective featuring two additional films from this guest director’s repertoire.

The festival offers something for everyone:

• Documentaries on Thursdays: Highlights include “Far from the Nile,” a celebration of unity as 12 musicians travel through seven countries along the Nile River, using music to bridge borders.
• Family Film Fest & Activities: On Saturday, Feb. 22, families can enjoy a special lineup of a friendly coming-of-age film, alongside kid-friendly activities.
• Women Filmmaker Week: A spotlight on African women directors and their powerful storytelling.
• View Online Collection: A collaboration with the Multnomah County Library offers a special of African films available through Kanopy.
  

  Visiting director Moussa Sène Absa.

• Marketplace Day: From 2–6 p.m., Saturday, March 1, attendees can explore African and Black-owned vendor booths featuring crafts, art, and more at the Moriarty Auditorium on the Cascade Campus.

The festival also features an advance screening of “On Becoming a Guinea Fowl” by Zambian director Rungano Nyoni on Thursday, Feb. 6, at the . The closing night on March 1 will feature “Under the Fig Trees” by Tunisian filmmaker Erige Sehiri.

During the festival, С��è��ý is honoring the legacies of founding member Linda Elegant and long-time supporter Bob Holmström.

“Their vision and dedication laid the foundation for CFAF’s mission of education, inclusion and community that continues into its 35th year,” Jolivett Fontana added.

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