On February 1st, 2013, at 6:30 p.m., the 23rd Cascade Festival of African Films opens with
Toussaint Louverture
, a film focused on the African Diaspora in the Caribbean.
We are honored to have director Philippe Niang with us to present his award-winning film,
Toussaint Louverture
, for the opening night of our 23rd festival.
This historical action epic, starring Jimmy Jean-Louis in the title role, is based on the life of Toussaint L'Ouverture (1743-1803), who led the only successful slave rebellion in the history of the Americas. It was this 18th century revolt that sparked the Haitian Revolution and led to the defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte, liberating the enslaved people of Haiti. Set during L'Ouverture's lifetime in Saint-Domingue (now known as Haiti), the film focuses on L'Ouverture's personal life as well as his military genius.
This three-hour screening will be separated into two parts by a brief intermission. Please note the early start time on Opening Night. Jefferson Dancers will give a pre-screening performance.
In French and Haitian Creole with English subtitles.