United States: Cameroonian film nominated at the American Black Film Festival
Cameroonian cinema has just reached a historic milestone. The film Lights Out was selected at the prestigious American Black Film Festival (ABFF), becoming the first Cameroonian film to be nominated in this renowned American competition
Directed in Limbe by Enah Johnscott, already known for Fisherman’s Diary, and produced by Carista Asonganyi in collaboration with Buh Melvin, the feature film was praised for its strong message around dementia and the stigmatization of people suffering from this disease.
Inspired by a personal story of the producer, the film aims to raise public awareness on several major issues, namely the difference between dementia and madness, the stigmatization of patients, the lack of specialized infrastructure in Cameroon and the importance of supporting families.
The cast brings together several well-known figures from African cinema, including Syndy Emade, Shaffy Bello, Wale Ojo, Ngongang Elizabeth, Libota Mcdonald and Brenda Shey Elung.
Selected in the “International Narrative Features” category, Lights Out will represent Cameroon against three other international productions in the race for the Grand Prix.
A public vote should also be launched before the official opening of the festival, offering Cameroonians and lovers of African cinema the opportunity to support this work which carries the country's colors high on the world stage
