Thierno Souleymane Diallo, also known as Souleymane Gando, is a Guinean director and screenwriter born in 1983 in Pita, who has established himself as one of the prominent figures in contemporary African cinema. Trained at the Higher Institute of Arts of Guinea and later in Niger and Senegal, he specialized in documentary filmmaking, producing notable works such as "Un homme pour ma famille" (A Man for My Family, 2015) and "Nô mëtî sîfâdhe" (2018).
His first feature-length documentary, "Au cimetière de la pellicule" (The Film Cemetery, 2023), achieved remarkable international success, winning numerous prestigious awards including the LFC AWARD for Best International Documentary and several prizes at the Venice Final Cut. Currently serving as Director of Video Productions and Documentary Content at Hadafo Médias group, Diallo stands out for his commitment to preserving and documenting the history of Guinean cinema, drawing inspiration from great African directors like Abderrahmane Sissako and Souleymane Cissé while developing his own distinctive voice in the African cinematic landscape.
Introduction
Thierno Souleymane Diallo, also known as Souleymane Gando, is a Guinean director and screenwriter who has established himself as one of the major figures in contemporary African cinema. His documentary work explores the history and memory of his native country, significantly contributing to the revival of Guinean cinema.
Earlier life and Education
Born in 1983 in Pita, Middle Guinea, Thierno Souleymane Diallo developed a passion for cinema at an early age. From the age of 10, fascinated by the magic of the big screen, he began regularly attending movie theaters. His academic journey began at the Higher Institute of Arts of Guinea (ISAG) in Dubréka, where he chose cinema among several artistic disciplines. In 2012, his quest for training led him to Niger, where he obtained a specialized master's degree in creative documentary, before continuing his studies in Senegal where he earned a diploma in documentary filmmaking.
Professional Career
Diallo's professional journey demonstrates a deep commitment to the development of African cinema. He cites among his main influences directors Abderrahmane Sissako, Souleymane Cissé, and Cheick Fantamady Camara, iconic figures of African cinema. His career took a significant turn on August 11, 2023, when he was appointed Director of Video Productions and Documentary Content at Hadafo Médias group, thus consolidating his position in the Guinean media landscape.
Filmography
Diallo's filmography consists of several notable works:
- 2015: "Un homme pour ma famille" (A Man for My Family) - His first televised documentary, produced by JPL Productions
- 2018: "Nô mëtî sîfâdhe" - A 51-minute documentary that confirmed his talent as a director
- 2023: "Au cimetière de la pellicule" (The Film Cemetery) - His first feature-length documentary, which gained international recognition after its premiere at the Berlin Festival
Awards and Recognition
"Au cimetière de la pellicule" particularly marked 2023, garnering numerous prestigious distinctions:
- LFC AWARD for "Best International Documentary" in Cameroon
- Best Documentary Award at the African Film Festival in France
- OIF Prize at the Venice Final Cut
- African Film Library Prize
- Amiens International Film Festival Prize
- Eye on Film Prize
- Special Mention from the International Jury at the African Film Festival-FCAT in Spain
Artistic Approach
Diallo's documentary approach is characterized by a deep reflection on history and collective memory. His film "Au cimetière de la pellicule" perfectly illustrates this approach, tracing the history of "Mouramani," the first Guinean feature film, while questioning the preservation of African cinematographic heritage. This work of memory is part of a broader desire to transmit and understand recent Guinean history.
Conclusion
Thierno Souleymane Diallo represents a new generation of African filmmakers who combine technical expertise, artistic sensitivity, and societal engagement. Through his work, he contributes not only to the preservation of Guinean cultural memory but also to the development of a new African cinematographic narrative. His international success demonstrates the relevance and universality of his documentary approach, paving the way for increased recognition of Guinean cinema on the global stage.
