Mar 10 • 16:08 UTC 🌍 Africa Africanews

Film: Dancing through resistance in Belleville

The film 'Belleville Will Always See Us Dance' highlights the peaceful struggle of Afro-descendants in Paris’s Belleville neighbourhood during the Geneva International Film Festival.

The 2026 Geneva International Film Festival and Forum on Human Rights focuses on the theme of ‘Resistance and Revolt: The Power of Images,’ featuring the documentary 'Belleville Will Always See Us Dance' directed by Hugo Sobelman. This film captures the ongoing peaceful struggle of a group of young Afro-descendants residing in the Belleville neighbourhood of Paris, showcasing their resilience amidst societal challenges. One of the film’s central figures is photographer Souleymane Fofana, known as Commeas, whose work highlights the connection between humor, music, and dance within this vibrant community.

Fofana’s noteworthy photo exhibition, 'Les 11,' accompanies the film in the festival, further enriching the thematic exploration of the narratives portrayed in the documentary. The setting is a community centre where younger residents and older volunteers unite to embark on various humanitarian and cinematic projects. The film chronicles their journey as they navigate the complexities of growing up in an environment characterized by inequality and violence while emphasizing their cultural expression through art, particularly in the realms of music and dance.

This documentary not only serves as a poignant representation of the Belleville community but also raises broader questions regarding social injustice and the power of art as a tool for resistance and identity formation. As such, it holds significant importance not only for the community in Paris but also presents a message that resonates with global audiences facing similar struggles.

📡 Similar Coverage