Top 5 influential African filmmakers you need to know

The film industry is ever-changing and that is no different in Africa, where film by filmmakers have exploded throughout the continent and has seeped into the hearts of millions.

African cinema dates back to the 20th century when film reels were used to tell the story of its own people. Prior to African film, Africa was shown to the world through the eyes of Western filmmakers, who often depicted the continent in a negative light. But that quickly changed when African-owned theaters began sprouting in parts of Eastern Africa, specifically Egypt, which still houses one of the oldest cinemas in the world.

Fast forward a century later, there are now hundreds of African filmmakers to watch out for, but below are five that you must know:

Scroll through to read about them: