Renowned filmmaker Mahamat-Saleh Haroun continues to elevate African cinema with his powerful stories, capturing the essence of his native Chad. With his latest film “Soumsoum, the Night of the Stars,” a contender for the Berlin Golden Bear, Haroun brings the beauty and complexity of Chadian life to the big screen. This dedication stems from what Haroun calls his “duty” to represent and preserve the culture and history of Chad, providing a cinematic window into a region often overlooked. His commitment to storytelling underscores the significance of Chadian narratives in global cinema.
The Journey of a Chadian Auteur
Mahamat-Saleh Haroun emerged on the international cinema scene with “Bye Bye Africa” (1999), a film deeply rooted in personal and national history. Despite relocating to France during Chad’s civil war in the 1980s, Haroun’s connection to his homeland remains unbroken. His body of work showcases a profound responsibility to narrate stories that address the nuances of life in Chad. He firmly believes in documenting his homeland’s stories as a duty, bridging geographical and cultural distances through film.
A Contender for the Golden Bear
Haroun’s latest film, “Soumsoum, the Night of the Stars,” is competing for the prestigious Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival. Previously honored with a Special Jury Prize at Cannes for “A Screaming Man” (2010), Haroun is no stranger to the festival circuit. His new film, set against the stark beauty of the Ennedi Desert, delves into a tale of sisterhood and mysticism. The narrative follows Kellou, a young woman with haunting visions, as she forges a bond with a village outcast, weaving together elements of legend and personal discovery.
The Ennedi Desert: A Source of Inspiration
Filming in the Ennedi Desert, a remote and mythical region in Chad, allowed Haroun to draw upon childhood legends and cultural folklore. The landscape, rich in history and tales, inspired him to craft a story that feels both ancient and universal. Haroun describes the Ennedi Desert as a cradle of humanity, a place that inspires storytelling steeped in mythology and the origins of civilization. This setting breathes life into the narrative, situating it within the broader fabric of human history.
The Importance of Cultural Representation
Haroun’s commitment to his native Chad is evident not just in the stories he tells but in how he tells them. Returning multiple times a year, he maintains a deep connection with the culture and its people. This regular engagement ensures authenticity in his work, portraying Chad from an insider’s perspective rather than through an external lens. Haroun views his films as archival, preserving the essence of a rapidly changing world and creating a legacy that honors his roots.
Continuing to produce films rooted in Chadian culture fulfills Haroun’s sense of obligation and passion. His work serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, a testament to the enduring power of cinema to illuminate untold stories. Through “Soumsoum, the Night of the Stars” and beyond, Haroun remains a vital voice in bringing Chad to the global stage, one film at a time.
