Algiers, January 15, 2025 – The Algerian feature film “Frantz Fanon” by director Abdellah Zohzoh was awarded the Jury Prize in the official competition of the 14th Luxor African Film Festival, which concluded on Tuesday evening in Luxor, southern Egypt, according to the festival’s organizers.
The film, produced in 2024, competed in the feature film category alongside ten other entries from various African countries, including Egypt, Tunisia, Senegal, Togo, and Cameroon. Over the course of 90 minutes, the movie explores the life and legacy of Frantz Fanon (1925-1961), a Martinican-born anti-colonial activist and psychiatrist, known for his role in Algeria’s liberation struggle against French colonialism.
A Journey Through History and Struggle
Frantz Fanon sheds light on a pivotal chapter of Fanon’s life, tracing his journey from his appointment as the head of the psychiatry department at the Blida Mental Hospital (now named after him) to his involvement in Algeria’s liberation revolution. The film covers the period between 1953 and 1956, offering a blend of fictional narrative and documentary storytelling.
The screenplay, written by the director himself, captures Fanon’s dedication to justice and his enduring influence on anti-colonial movements worldwide. The film, produced under the patronage of Algeria’s Ministry of Culture and Arts through a collaboration between the National Center for Cinema Development (CNDC) and Atlas Film Production, premiered in Algiers at the Ibn Zaydoun Cinema in October 2024. It is currently being screened in theaters across Algeria and was also featured in the 74th Berlin International Film Festival in Germany.
National and International Recognition
Following this achievement, Algeria’s Minister of Culture and Arts, Zouheir Bellow, extended his congratulations to Abdellah Zohzoh and the entire production team. The minister emphasized the importance of such accolades in promoting Algerian cinema on the global stage and commended the exceptional quality of Algerian film productions.
Luxor African Film Festival 2025
The 14th edition of the Luxor African Film Festival, held from January 9 to 14, honored the legacy of Egyptian actor and director Nour El Sherif (1946-2015). The festival featured 65 films from 35 African countries across its various competitions, reaffirming its mission to foster collaboration and co-production among African filmmakers.
The festival, established in 2012 by the non-profit Independent Artists Youth Foundation, has become a vital platform for celebrating African cinema and creating opportunities for cross-border artistic exchange.
Abdellah Zohzoh’s Legacy in Algerian Cinema
Born in 1973 in Blida, Abdellah Zohzoh has established himself as a prominent filmmaker in Algeria and beyond. He has directed several acclaimed films, including the documentary “Frantz Fanon: Memory of Exile” (2002), the short film “Karakoz” (2010), and the documentary “El Oued, El Oued” (2013). His works have garnered awards at numerous national and international festivals, further solidifying his reputation as a pioneer in Algerian cinema.
The recognition of “Frantz Fanon” at the Luxor African Film Festival highlights Algeria’s thriving film industry and its ability to produce thought-provoking, high-quality works that resonate with audiences worldwide.
For more updates on Algeria’s cultural achievements, visit DZWATCH.DZ.
Author: Nor-Eleslam
