Cinema has played a significant social and political role within Africa as well as shaping a construction of Africa beyond the continent.

There are some outstanding films that are must-sees for anyone interested in African history and culture (not in any particular order):

1) Mapantsula - A South African film produced during a turbulent time in its history. It was filmed at the height of conflict surrounding the fear of resistence to apartheid. Claiming to be making a simple "gangster" movie about South African youth, the filmmakers instead provide an insightful look into the turbulent live...