Linz festival brings African and diaspora cinema into focus

African and diaspora film cultures take centre stage in Linz from November 4 to 7 at the third CINÉMA AFRICAIN! festival, ORF reported. Its programme includes 16 films from 13 countries in 13 languages, with works ranging from Western Sahara to Senegal, Mozambique and Haiti.

The films explore identity, resistance, migration and the connections between people, landscapes and the sea. The programme includes “Lady,” a feature film by Nigerian director Olive Nwosu. It follows Lady, a taxi driver in Lagos who dreams of a fresh start. When a childhood friend returns, Lady is drawn into a world of glamour, risky encounters and unexpected solidarity. The film examines women’s self-determination, vulnerability and the search for an independent path.

“Cotton Queen” is also on the programme, followed by a discussion with cinematographer Frida Marzouk. The festival’s accompanying programme, “Politics of the Image,” will examine who shapes images, which stories are told and how cultural heritage is passed on.

Screenings and events will take place at several venues in Linz. The main venue is the Moviemento cinema at OK-Platz. Other events are scheduled at the Linz art university, FIFTITU%, Solaris Bar and Stadtwerkstatt.

The festival is organised by the cultural association Beyond Frames. In 2026, it received the City of Linz’s “City of Diversity” award for interculturalism.