Until October 7, the French Institute of Benin is hosting the fourth edition of the International Mental Well-being Festival, featuring 22 films in competition, including eight documentaries and 14 works of fiction. Among these entries from various African countries and France, two fiction films are directed by Malagasy filmmakers: “Roba” by Naina Ravahitrarivo and “Ligne de fuite” (Vanishing Line) by Andry Ranarison.
Through diverse stories and realities, the selected films address the issue of psychological health and invite audiences to take a different look at the difficulties individuals may face. The competition thus provides a space where cinema becomes a medium to explore and question mental well-being.
For Naina Ravahitrarivo, certain scenes in “Roba” may trigger reactions among viewers. “I don’t know what the impact of the film will be, but I hope it will help or provide encouragement in life,” the director explained on his official Facebook page.
The participation of these two filmmakers also serves as an opportunity to introduce Malagasy perspectives to the Beninese public and the professionals attending the festival. Furthermore, the screenings foster discussions around cinema and the various ways of addressing psychological health through artistic creation.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-07 06:38:45 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/cinema-deux-films-au-festival-du-bien.html