DENVER, CO — Film enthusiasts in Colorado are in for a cultural treat as the Colorado Diasporic Film Festival (CDFF) kicks off today, Thursday, August 28th, bringing a vibrant tapestry of global cinema to the Mile High City. The festival, running through Sunday, August 31st, is a celebration of diverse cultures and a powerful platform for voices from across the globe.

Founded by Senegalese-American filmmaker Ousmane Ndoye, the CDFF is a passion project with a mission: to use the art of film to build bridges and foster understanding between people and communities. “It’s all about community building,” Ndoye said in a recent interview. “It’s all about trying to learn from one another as neighbors.”

Over the four-day event, more than 20 filmmakers and actors from various countries including France, Nigeria, Senegal, Canada, and Cambodia will be in attendance. The festival’s lineup features a curated selection of films and documentaries that explore themes of migration, identity, and belonging.

A special highlight of this year’s festival is the tribute to the late Ousmane Sembène, often called the “father of African cinema.” His legendary works, which include powerful social commentaries like Black Girl and Xala, will be featured, offering a chance for audiences to experience the films of a master storyteller who used cinema as a tool for social change.

The festival will be hosted at three prominent venues: the SIE Film Center in Denver, the Vintage Theatre in Aurora, and the Village Exchange Center. This multi-venue approach underscores the festival’s commitment to reaching different communities throughout the Denver metro area.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in global stories and connect with filmmakers and artists from around the world. For a full schedule of screenings and events, visit the official festival website, Askkanwii Filmmaking Hub.