An exceptional lineup is set to light up Paris from November 5 to 14, 2026. To celebrate its 8th edition on the EICAR campus, the “L’Afrique Fait Son Cinéma” festival is surrounded by three major figures of the seventh art: Clémentine Célarié as a passionate Patroness, Lucien Jean-Baptiste as a radiant Patron, and international actor Richard Sammel as Jury President. A closer look at three extraordinary journeys guided by a love for Africa and the Caribbean.

When Blaise Pascal Tanguy and the teams behind L’Afrique Fait Son Cinéma unveiled the leading figures of this 8th edition, the announcement immediately sparked excitement across the cultural world. To champion more than fifty films from twenty-four countries, the festival has united three icons of screen and stage. Through their individual paths, Clémentine Célarié, Lucien Jean-Baptiste, and Richard Sammel each carry a unique and profound bond with African and Caribbean cultures.

Clémentine Célarié: Africa at Heart, from Childhood Roots to the Stage

For Clémentine Célarié, stepping into the role of Patroness for L’Afrique Fait Son Cinéma feels like a homecoming. Before becoming the incandescent icon of Betty Blue (37°2 le matin) and Savage Nights (Les Nuits fauves), as well as one of the most acclaimed actresses of the French stage, she forged her artistic sensibility on the African continent. Born in Dakar, Senegal, she spent fourteen years of her youth in Africa, living successively in Senegal, Cameroon, and Gabon.

From a childhood steeped in the human warmth, rhythms, and cultural richness of the continent, the artist has retained an absolute freedom of expression and an unwavering openness to the world. A longtime advocate against all forms of racism and discrimination, and deeply passionate about African music and storytelling, she brings her volcanic generosity and benevolent eye to a thriving African creative scene.

Lucien Jean-Baptiste: The Voice of the Caribbean and a Passion for Mentorship

Alongside her, Lucien Jean-Baptiste embodies loyalty and popular excellence. A son of Martinique who became one of France’s most beloved directors and actors, he broke the mold of French cinema by placing Afro-descendant families and heroes center stage. From the triumphs of La Première Étoile and Dieumerci ! to the warmth of Il a déjà tes yeux, his body of work celebrates the overcoming of prejudice with humor and humanity.

A dedicated Patron, the man who also lends his iconic French dubbing voice to Hollywood’s biggest stars views this role as a mission of sharing and transmission. His presence on the EICAR campus serves as a major source of inspiration for the new generation of filmmakers, screenwriters, and actors gathered in Paris to represent their heritage.

Richard Sammel: International Elegance at the Helm of the Jury

To preside over the jury that will award the prestigious Ubuntu Prizes during the closing ceremony, the festival called upon the magnetic charisma of Richard Sammel. A true citizen of the world who speaks five languages fluently and trained across Germany, Italy, and France, this accomplished actor has shone brightly in Hollywood for Quentin Tarantino (Inglourious Basterds) and opposite James Bond (Casino Royale), as well as in French cinema and television classics (OSS 117, A French Village).

Driven by a curiosity for diverse cultures and new forms of storytelling, Richard Sammel also shares a special connection with narratives of inclusion and the African continent. After moving audiences in Neneh Superstar, which followed the struggle of a young Black ballerina at the Paris Opera, he immersed himself in the continent’s audiovisual scene by filming the series Lex Africana in Dakar. His discerning eye as both an actor and director will offer the competing works—ranging from narrative features and documentaries to the innovative creations of the Défi Kino-AI—an attentive and noble appreciation.

From November 5 to 14, carried by the aura of Clémentine Célarié, Lucien Jean-Baptiste, and Richard Sammel, L’Afrique Fait Son Cinéma promises an unforgettable edition, celebrating an audacious, triumphant, and universal African and Caribbean seventh art.