Abou Sangaré, a remarkable talent discovered in an open casting call, has gained recognition at the César awards for his role as an undocumented delivery man in The Story of Souleymane. Recently granted a one-year work residence permit, he delivered an emotional speech at the 50th César ceremony, expressing gratitude to his team and supporters. The film has achieved significant success, with nearly 600,000 admissions, and is nominated for multiple awards, highlighting its impactful storytelling.
Abou Sangaré: A Rising Star in The Story of Souleymane
One of the standout names in this year’s César awards is undoubtedly Abou Sangaré! This talented non-professional actor was discovered through an open casting call and has since captivated audiences with his portrayal of an undocumented delivery man in the film, The Story of Souleymane. Until recently, he faced challenges himself, living in an irregular situation. However, the production team has announced that Abou has now received his residence permit. As of January 8, 2025, Mr. Sangaré has officially been granted a one-year work residence permit, valid until December 10, 2025, by the Prefecture of Amiens.
An Emotional César Ceremony Speech
During the 50th César ceremony, Abou Sangaré moved the audience with his heartfelt speech, expressing gratitude to those who have supported him throughout his journey.
‘Thank you so much. First, I want to acknowledge my team from The Story of Souleymane, who are all here today. I must mention my director, Boris Lojkine, and casting director, Madame Aline Dalbis. From 2017 until April 2023, my life was on hold. I felt invisible, living among people but not feeling like a human myself.’
‘Having crossed the Mediterranean, I experienced a range of hardships until April 2023. One day, two individuals approached me, saying they had a job opportunity for me. I had felt trapped, as if I were in a prison without a way out. But thanks to them and The Story of Souleymane, along with my supportive team and our distributors Pyramide, we achieved great visibility for this film.’
‘Thank you for helping me integrate into humanity. I also want to express my gratitude to my friends in Amiens who stood by me from 2017 to this moment and continue to do so. My company provided the motivation to stay in Amiens until 2023. Without their support and respect, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve all that I have today. They may not be here now, but I carry them in my thoughts. A heartfelt thank you to the Academy for this recognition.’
The Story of Souleymane has emerged as a surprise hit of 2024, achieving nearly 600,000 admissions. The film is nominated in eight categories tonight, including César for Best Film, Best Director, Best Male Revelation, Best Supporting Actress, Best Original Screenplay, Best Sound, Best Editing, and Best Cinematography.
Directed by Boris Lojkine, The Story of Souleymane marks his third feature film, following Hope in 2015 and Camille in 2019. The film’s unexpected success and poignant subject matter have taken many by surprise. Boris Lojkine remarked, ‘This is something that shouldn’t happen, yet it does. It feels like a miracle and a well-deserved recognition for those who worked tirelessly to create a meaningful film that tells essential stories.’