‘Scène de Rêve’ (Dream Stage), a film by Canada-based Rwandan filmmaker Richard Mugwaneza, has been selected to screen at the upcoming ‘Vues d’Afrique Film Festival which will take place from April 3-13 in Quebec, Canada. ‘Vues d’Afrique’ is an annual film festival that primarily focuses on African cinema, alongside Canadian films exploring African-Canadian culture. ALSO READ: Rwandan movies to screen and compete at film festival in Germany The 41st edition of the festival will feature a diverse selection of both established and emerging African filmmakers, with Mugwaneza’s ‘Scène De Rêve’ scheduled to be screened on April 4. The 24-minute feature film is inspired by the story of Zunza, a group of African artists living in Canada, who embark on a journey to perform at a prestigious festival in Toronto. Mugwaneza explains that the film also delves into the challenges, disappointments, and modest successes that define the journey of emerging musicians. “Although they expected to share the stage with renowned artists, the members of Zunza discovered that the reality of the music industry is rooted in patience and humility,” Mugwaneza told The New Times, adding, “Scène De Rêve immerses viewers in the love of music, showcasing the effort and collaboration required for these artists to carve their place in the world of art.” Mugwaneza, who began his filmmaking career in 2007, is known for his work in video editing and supporting new filmmakers through his Sample of Work project. ALSO READ: 161 films and counting: Tracing Longin Irunga’s remarkable acting career Now residing in Montreal, Canada, the filmmaker has directed numerous films such as Nota Bene, Chora-Chora, Neo Ancienne, and A Seed of Memories, all of which have been screened at major festivals. The Vues d’Afrique Film Festival was first held in 1985 under the name African Cinema Week and evolved into Vues d’Afrique by the early 1990s. The primary venue for the festival is the Cinémathèque Québécoise, although screenings also take place at various venues across the city, including Concordia University, Université du Québec à Montréal, the National Film Board, Maison de la Culture Frontenac, and Centre Pierre Péladeau. The festival showcases both film and television projects and highlights other expressions of African culture, including an African food fair, as well as events dedicated to African dance, music, art, and literature.
