Testimonials and Media Coverage

Visiting filmmakers

“Now I can return to Mali. Now I know who is who and who does what and together we can all know each other.” – Souleymane Cisse, visiting filmmaker 2005

Festival attendees

(via anonymous feedback forms)

“These films truly helped me understand the common humanity of people in Africa and in my country.”

“The opportunity to see films I would not know about or get to see otherwise.”

“Fabulously wide-ranging. A splendid resource for the PDX community.”

“The breadth and quality are outstanding!”

“You provide the Portland metro community with a chance to acquire and develop global understanding. It’s so important CFAF is free, and thus available to all.”

“The chance to see films that would never come to Portland otherwise, and getting little glimpses into faraway countries and cultures. And it’s free (!) as opposed to [another local film festival].”

“Superb quality, breathtaking variety, the staff is fully committed, and it’s free!”

Media

“… in its two decades, CFAF has deservedly grown from an attendance in the low hundreds to nearly 6000 visitors per year, and for good reason. This is an intelligently and creatively programmed event, filled with passion for cinema and love and respect for community. The smart bet is that if you sample it once you’re likely to come back again and again – maybe even for another 20 years.” – Shawn Levy, The Oregonian /Oregon Live.com

“It’s shamefully rare that anyone in the United States gets a chance to see an insider’s view of life on the African continent. You can find plenty of films about Africa, but precious few made by people who live there. Portland’s annual Cascade Festival of African Films goes a long way toward correcting that. And all the films and related events are free.” – Becky Ohlsen, Willamette Week

“…celebrating Africa ‘s finest film artists, this sumptuous festival offers cultural riches for the cinematic explorer.” – Portland Monthly

“Since 1991, the month of February has brought the Cascade Festival of African Film to local screens and given audiences a unique perspective on Black History Month. The festival is a true community event.” – Shawn Levy, The Oregonian

“The first festival to offer a children’s day as a regular part of its programming.” – Shawn Levy, The Oregonian

“These films are worth seeing!” – Providence Health System newsletter