Encounters South African International Documentary Festival is thrilled to announce an exclusive, one-night-only Cape Town screening of Raoul Peck’s critically acclaimed documentary, “Ernest Cole: Lost and Found,” at the iconic Labia Theatre on March 20, 2025, the eve of Human Rights Day.
Hailed as one of the most powerful documentaries of 2024, “Ernest Cole: Lost and Found” captivated audiences worldwide, securing the prestigious L’Oeil d’or prize at the Cannes Film Festival, alongside numerous other accolades. With a remarkable 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, this film is a testament to Peck’s visionary filmmaking.
Raoul Peck, renowned for “I Am Not Your Negro” (Encounters 2017), masterfully unveils the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Ernest Cole, a pivotal anti-apartheid photographer. The documentary delves into Cole’s courageous documentation of apartheid’s brutal realities and the mysterious journey of his lost and rediscovered work.
Narrated with compelling depth by LaKeith Stanfield, the film seamlessly intertwines Cole’s harrowing experiences in exile with the broader African American narrative, drawing stark parallels between systemic oppression in South Africa and the United States. Cole’s poignant words resonate powerfully: “In South Africa, I was afraid of being arrested. In the United States, I was afraid of being killed.”
Ernest Cole, who passed away in 1990, a week after Nelson Mandela’s release, left behind a body of work that remains profoundly relevant. “Ernest Cole: Lost and Found” is a compelling cinematic tribute to his unwavering courage and artistic brilliance.
“Screening this film on the eve of Human Rights Day, and what would have been Ernest Cole’s 85th birthday, is deeply significant,” states Mandisa Zitha, Director of Encounters. “This film not only preserves his legacy but also inspires new generations to champion human rights. In a time when historical truths are often obscured, this documentary serves as a vital reminder of the imperative to remember, reflect, and remain vigilant in the pursuit of justice. Ernest Cole wielded his camera as a weapon for change; this is a film that demands to be seen.”
Following its successful opening at the Joburg Film Festival, “Ernest Cole: Lost and Found” will be screened at The Labia Theatre, Cape Town, on Thursday, March 20th, at 6:00 PM.
This special Cape Town screening is presented in partnership with Encounters South African International Documentary Festival, Africa Entertainment in America, and Known Associates Group.
The 27th Encounters South African International Documentary Festival will run from June 19th to 29th, 2025.