TIFF 2024: Ernest Cole: Lost and Found
Have you ever stumbled upon something so incredible that it changed the way you see the world? That’s exactly what happened when 60,000 forgotten photos by South African photographer Ernest Cole were found in a Swedish bank vault. And now, this amazing story is coming to life in Raoul Peck’s new documentary, Ernest Cole: Lost and Found, premiering at TIFF 2024.
Who Was Ernest Cole?
Ernest Cole was more than just a photographer—he was a hero with a camera. Growing up under the harsh apartheid regime in South Africa, Cole used his lens to show the world the ugly truth about racial segregation. His book, House of Bondage, published in 1967, exposed the inhumane conditions that Black South Africans faced every day.
But after his book was released, Cole had to flee South Africa. He ended up in the United States and Europe, where life wasn’t easy. Despite being a celebrated artist, he struggled to find his footing, eventually becoming homeless. He passed away in 1990, just as South Africa was on the brink of change.
The Big Discovery
Fast forward to 2017, when Cole’s nephew, Leslie Matlaisane, discovered a massive collection of his work hidden away in a Swedish bank vault. These 60,000 negatives, many of which had never been seen before, offered a fresh look at Cole’s incredible talent and his determination to capture the lives of those who were often ignored.
Raoul Peck’s Masterpiece
If you’re familiar with Raoul Peck’s work, like I Am Not Your Negro, you know he’s a director who doesn’t shy away from tough topics. In Ernest Cole: Lost and Found, Peck takes us on a journey through Cole’s life, using the photographer’s own words, beautifully narrated by actor LaKeith Stanfield. The result is a film that feels both intimate and powerful, a fitting tribute to an artist who saw the world in a way few others did.
Why You Should See It
Ernest Cole: Lost and Found isn’t just another documentary—it’s a chance to experience history through the eyes of a man who lived it. Whether you’re a photography fan, a history buff, or just someone who loves a good story, this film is a must-see. It’s already won the Best Documentary award at Cannes, and it’s sure to be one of the highlights of TIFF 2024.
Don’t Miss It!
Ready to dive into Ernest Cole’s world? Here’s when you can catch the film at TIFF:
- Thursday, September 5 at 2:45 PM
- Monday, September 9 at 3:15 PM
- Wednesday, September 11 at 12:15 PM
Grab your tickets, and get ready to be inspired by a story that almost stayed hidden forever. See you at the Scotiabank Theatre!
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