# Abderrahmane Sissako

> Mauritanian film director and film producer (born 1961)

**Wikidata**: [Q308097](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q308097)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abderrahmane_Sissako)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/abderrahmane-sissako

## Summary
Abderrahmane Sissako is a Mauritanian film director and producer born in 1961, known for his work in African cinema. He has directed films such as *Waiting for Happiness* (2002) and received numerous awards, including the César Award for Best Director. His contributions have significantly influenced African filmmaking and earned him recognition in international film circles.

## Biography
- Born: October 13, 1961
- Nationality: Mauritania
- Education: Gerasimov Institute of Cinematography (Moscow, Russia)
- Known for: Pioneering African cinema with films like *Waiting for Happiness*
- Employer(s): Independent filmmaker, affiliated with the Gerasimov Institute of Cinematography
- Field(s): Film direction, film production

## Contributions
- Directed *Waiting for Happiness* (2002), a landmark film in African cinema that explores themes of migration and identity.
- Received the César Award for Best Director in 2016, recognizing his contributions to French cinema.
- Produced and directed films that have been screened at international film festivals, including the Lumière Awards.
- Affiliated with the Gerasimov Institute of Cinematography, contributing to film education and production.

## FAQs
- **What is Abderrahmane Sissako known for?** Abderrahmane Sissako is known for his work as a Mauritanian film director and producer, particularly for films like *Waiting for Happiness* and his contributions to African cinema.
- **Where did Abderrahmane Sissako study?** Abderrahmane Sissako studied at the Gerasimov Institute of Cinematography in Moscow, Russia.
- **What awards has Abderrahmane Sissako received?** Abderrahmane Sissako has received awards such as the César Award for Best Director and the Lumière Award for Best Film.
- **What films has Abderrahmane Sissako directed?** Abderrahmane Sissako has directed films such as *Waiting for Happiness* (2002) and other notable works in African cinema.
- **What is Abderrahmane Sissako's nationality?** Abderrahmane Sissako is a citizen of Mauritania.

## Why They Matter
Abderrahmane Sissako is significant in the field of film for his pioneering work in African cinema. His films, such as *Waiting for Happiness*, have been influential in shaping the narrative of African storytelling on the global stage. His contributions have earned him international recognition and awards, including the César Award for Best Director. Sissako's work has also influenced film education and production, particularly through his affiliation with the Gerasimov Institute of Cinematography. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of African filmmakers.

## Notable For
- Pioneer of African cinema with films like *Waiting for Happiness*.
- Recipient of the César Award for Best Director (2016).
- Affiliation with the Gerasimov Institute of Cinematography, contributing to film education.
- Recognition at international film festivals, including the Lumière Awards.
- Production of films that explore themes of migration and identity in African contexts.

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Abderrahmane Sissako was born on October 13, 1961, in Mauritania. He studied at the Gerasimov Institute of Cinematography in Moscow, Russia, where he honed his skills in film direction and production.

### Career and Directing
Sissako began his career in filmmaking, directing works that have been recognized internationally. His most notable film, *Waiting for Happiness* (2002), explores themes of migration and identity, making significant contributions to African cinema. The film was screened at various international film festivals and received critical acclaim.

### Awards and Recognition
Sissako has received numerous awards for his contributions to film, including the César Award for Best Director in 2016. He has also been recognized at the Lumière Awards, further cementing his status as a leading figure in African cinema.

### Affiliations and Influence
Sissako is affiliated with the Gerasimov Institute of Cinematography, where he has contributed to film education and production. His work has influenced the development of African cinema and has inspired future generations of filmmakers.

### Legacy
Abderrahmane Sissako's legacy in film is marked by his pioneering work in African cinema. His films, such as *Waiting for Happiness*, have been influential in shaping the narrative of African storytelling on the global stage. His contributions continue to inspire and influence the film industry, particularly in Africa and beyond.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. BnF authorities
3. Dictionary of African Biography
4. Museum of Modern Art online collection
5. [Source](https://www.africanouvelles.com/abderrahmane-sissako-le-cineaste-franco-mauritanien-est-le-plus-en-vue-du-continent-africain/)
6. datos.bne.es
7. Artists of the World
8. [Source](https://www.academie-cinema.org/evenements/ceremonie-des-cesar-2015/)
9. [Le FESPACO 50 ans d’histoire ...](https://fespaco.bf/fespaco-50-ans/)
10. [Source](https://www.univ-paris8.fr/Docteurs-honoris-causa)
11. International Standard Name Identifier
12. Integrated Authority File
13. filmportal.de
14. Munzinger Personen
15. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
16. [Source](https://www.documenta.de/en/retrospective/documenta_x)
17. IdRef
18. The Movie Database
19. Cinemathèque québécoise Linked Open Data