The organizer of the Pavillon Afriques is advocating for a stronger African representation at the Cannes Film Festival. Karine Barclais, the founder of Pavillon Afriques, believes that a more prominent pavilion in the International Village could lead to an increased presence of African filmmakers. "Our goal is to motivate filmmakers to submit their films to the festival," Barclais said. She suggested that if every African nation submitted five films annually, their breakthrough would be inevitable.
Pavillon Afriques, a 100 square-meter space in the International Village, showcases ten Sub-Saharan African countries, including South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission. "I aim to ensure that the same countries return each year," said Barclais. "Securing a pavilion is challenging since space is limited, and someone must withdraw to make room."
Debuting in 2019 after Saudi Arabia's withdrawal, Pavillon Afriques cost $90,000 for this year’s slot, out of a total $500,000 budget, Barclais revealed. Initially funded privately in 2019, this year’s pavilion is sponsored by Nigeria-based broadcaster RedTV. Barclais urges African filmmakers and executives to attend Cannes to elevate the profile of Sub-Saharan Africa’s film industries. "I want African professionals to empower themselves, participate in financing the pavilion, and bring media from their countries."
https://www.pavillonafriques.com
Highlighted Program Events
The 2024 festival included a celebration of South Africa’s 30 years of freedom on May 14th, featuring ambassadors from The Gambia, Guinea, and Rwanda, followed by a cocktail event with DJ Tunde La Fuente. On May 15th, the spotlight was on the involvement of the French Agency of Development in Africa’s creative industries, and there was a screening of the documentary "Africa, Cradle of Humanity and Modern Civilizations" by Benita Jacques, followed by a Q&A session with the director.