The Black Star International Film Festival (BSIFF) in Accra, Ghana, founded by filmmaker Juliet Asante in 2016, serves as an annual celebration of African and African diaspora cinema, offering a platform for international recognition, featuring film screenings, discussions, and awards, and contributing significantly to the growth of the African film industry.
In September 2023, the bustling Accra Mall will play host to an exciting lineup of films from various genres and cultures. This cinematic extravaganza will offer something for everyone, from heartwarming dramas to thought-provoking documentaries and even a touch of suspense.
Tuesday, September 19, 2023:
The opening day will begin with great anticipation. At 3:00 PM, the audience will gather at the Astel Cinema for a thrilling 24-minute journey into the unknown. Following that, at 3:30 PM, it will be time for “Ampe: Leap into the Sky, Black Girl,” an 18-minute story that promises to soar high.
As the evening approaches, the highlight will be “Twin Flame” at 4:00 PM, a 110-minute film that will leave viewers captivated. Later, at 5:30 PM, “A Conversation Between Two Artists” will offer a distinct viewpoint for 12 minutes, and at 6:30 PM, “Discoverer of the Discoverers,” a 25-minute exploration of ground-breaking revelations, will follow.
The night will grow more intriguing with “Hair or No Hair” at 7:00 PM, a 15-minute dilemma that will have everyone talking. Then, at 7:30 PM, a special screening will be scheduled, promising an exceptional 107 minutes of cinematic brilliance. The night will conclude on an adventurous note with “Orango” at 9:30 PM, a 94-minute tale filled with suspense.
Wednesday, September 20, 2023:
The following day will promise even more excitement. The intriguing “The Prison Promise” will start at 11:00 and last for 55 minutes. At 11:55, “Gazing at Stars” will start and last for 100 minutes of celestial wonder.
In the afternoon, a special screening at 2:00 PM will bring a unique experience to the audience. “Xale” at 3:30 PM will promise 101 minutes of thrills, while “Broken Mask” at 5:15 PM will reveal the enigmatic in just 18 minutes. “Uncle” at 4:00 PM will provide 99 minutes of family drama, and “Chain Link” at 6:00 PM will link stories across 22 minutes. Another special screening at 6:30 PM will promise 90 minutes of unspoken emotions, concluding with the enigmatic “Portraits” at 8:50 PM.
In the evening, the British Council will offer “Films & Cocktails” from 6 PM to 9 PM, featuring an array of engaging films and discussions.
Thursday, September 21, 2023:
At 11:00 AM, “Orango,” a special screening of “Demons,” will continue the cinematic journey. At 3:00 PM, “Under the Fig Tree” will unfold its story for 92 minutes, and “Bruna: An African Story” will captivate for 120 minutes.
Meanwhile, Black Star Vibes will bring the drive-in experience with “PARKnWATCH DRIVE-IN + SHORTS ON SHOTS,” featuring a variety of captivating films in different venues throughout the evening.
Saturday, September 23, 2023:
The weekend will kick off with “Ramona,” a special screening at 11:00 AM, offering 80 minutes of excitement. Throughout the day, various short films, including “CFC’s Solstice Stories,” “A Shade of Indigo,” “100 of Us,” “3-Star,” “Mary’s Way,” “Mirror Mirror,” and a special screening of “Our Father the Devil,” will keep the audience engaged and entertained.
As night falls, the Blackstar Awards will showcase the closing film, ending the festival on a high note.
Sunday, September 24, 2023:
The festival will conclude with a special screening of “Discoverer of the Discoverers” at 6:00 PM, leaving the audience reflecting on the incredible cinematic journey they have experienced over the past few days.
Accra Mall will be transformed into a hub of storytelling, emotion, and creativity, where film enthusiasts from all walks of life will come together to celebrate the magic of cinema. This event will not just be a showcase of films but a reminder of the power of storytelling to connect people and cultures.
Visit www.bsiff.org to sign up to become a member for free access to all film screenings and festival events. Or you can secure your pass for each day!