The Ivorian film "Ebinto", adapted from Amadou Koné's novel "Les Frasques d'Ébinto", has made a successful debut at the Grand Rex in Paris. The film's premiere drew 2,509 attendees, with four additional screenings also selling out. The movie was produced by Charly Kodjo and directed by Luc Gnépa, and features an all-Ivorian cast. The film's Parisian premiere brought together spectators from Côte d'Ivoire, Africa, and other nationalities.
The film was shot on location in Côte d'Ivoire and marks the first coproduction of NCI Création, a company that has previously produced television series. The film's production team worked to recreate the atmosphere of the 1960s and 1970s through its sets, costumes, and direction. The audience was encouraged to attend screenings dressed in period attire, adding to the film's nostalgic charm.
The film's success in Paris follows well-received screenings in Côte d'Ivoire, particularly in Abidjan, where the premiere drew a large crowd. Additional screenings scheduled in Abidjan and Bouaké have also sold out, according to organizers. The film's popularity is a testament to the enduring appeal of Ivorian cinema and the appetite for high-quality African storytelling.
The film's director, Luc Gnépa, expressed his gratitude to producer Charly Kodjo for entrusting him with the project. Gnépa also revealed that he faced skepticism from some financial partners due to his limited experience in film direction. Despite these challenges, Gnépa's vision and creativity have brought the story to life.
The premiere ceremony was attended by several notable figures, including Ivorian Ambassador to France Maurice Bandaman and NCI's Director General Ange Fabien Guei. Guei praised the work of Kodjo, Gnépa, and the film's cast and crew, saying that Ivorian stories deserve to be shared with a wider audience.
The film's success is also a milestone for NCI Création, which aims to support Ivorian talent and promote the diffusion of their work. The company's Director General, Ange Fabien Guei, expressed his pride in the film's achievement and hopes to see more Ivorian stories adapted for the screen.
The film's literary roots were also celebrated at the premiere, with guests including Sandra Coulibaly Camara, NCI's Director of Fiction. The event concluded on a high note, with attendees looking forward to future projects from NCI Création and the continued growth of Ivorian cinema.
Key points
- The film "Ebinto" has sold out at Paris' Grand Rex, with 2,509 entries at its premiere and four additional screenings sold out.
- The film is an adaptation of Amadou Koné's novel "Les Frasques d'Ébinto" and marks the first coproduction of NCI Création.
- The film's success follows well-received screenings in Côte d'Ivoire and marks a milestone for Ivorian cinema and NCI Création.
