Important Dates

The “Cinema Africa” film festival organized by the Africa Multiple Cluster of Excellence at the University of Bayreuth returns with its 16th edition in January 2025. From January 26 to 29, the festival will once again present a selection of exceptional African films at Cineplex Bayreuth, showcasing the continent's cultural diversity and creative energy. After the monthly individual screenings at the end of last year, the festival will conclude with a film series lasting several days, characterized by exciting films and interesting discussions with the renowned filmmakers.

29 January 2025, 8 pm

The Village next to Paradise

133 min | Drama | Austria/France/Somalia, 2024
This film is a 2024 drama film, marking the feature-length directorial debut of Mo Harawe. The poignant narrative centers on a family‘s struggle to navigate life in a rural Somali village. Mamargrade struggles to raise his son Cigaal in their village Paradise amidst conflict, natural disasters, and the constant presence of drones from the United States. Their family dynamic is further altered by the arrival of Mamargrade‘s
sister Araweelo, who is seeking a fresh start after her divorce.

Regisseurin / Director: Mo Harawe
Sprache / Language: Somali mit englischen Untertiteln / Somali with English subtitles

Watch the trailer here.