Discover the best of Senegalese cinema, film, and television

Senegalese cinema is a true pioneer of African film, a profound and poetic voice that speaks of colonialism, identity, and the enduring spirit of its people. Its story begins with the legendary Ousmane Sembène. A novelist and activist, Sembène is rightly considered the 'father of African cinema'. His groundbreaking films, like Black Girl (La Noire de…), directly challenged colonial narratives and gave voice to ordinary Senegalese lives with a stunning blend of realism and poetry. He proved that African stories could be told by Africans, for the world. This powerful legacy continues with a new generation of visionary filmmakers. Directors like Mati Diop, whose haunting and beautiful film Atlantics won a major award at the Cannes Film Festival and was released globally by Netflix, are captivating new audiences with their unique cinematic visions. This global recognition is inspiring a thriving local scene, with new talents emerging and a growing number of television series reaching audiences across the nation and region. What makes Senegalese cinema so essential is its role as a cultural beacon. It is a cinema of great dignity and artistic integrity, using the camera to tell deeply human stories of resilience, memory, and the vibrant soul of West Africa.