We had discovered this caregiver who became an actress on the Croisette in 2021. Catherine Corsini had revealed her as a nurse in The divide, a role that earned him a César. Two years later, here is Aïssatou Diallo Sagna again in The return by the same filmmaker, screened Wednesday evening in competition.
“I alternate between my two professions, explains the young woman to 20 minutes. Sometimes the patients in the hospital recognize me. It’s fun but it doesn’t change my work. The immense gentleness that emanates from Aïssatou Diallo Sagna suggests that she must be a comforting caregiver. Her talent as an actress is equally evident.
“I don’t know if the fact of being directed by a woman changes anything, but Catherine Corsini is exceptional,” she said, immediately dismissing rumors of abuse on the set of the film.
“Catherine and I did not leave after The divide. I am grateful to him for allowing me to explore new things. She understood that I was ready to go further in the game. I know that many people wondered if I would be able to have a broader register. »
The answer is a big “yes”, as the filmmaker has been able to bring out all the qualities of Aïssatou in the role of mother and nanny, back in Corsica several years after a terrible tragedy, which is discreet at first before to gradually reveal its past and its cracks.
“This shoot allowed me to explore a character less close to me than that of The divide, she says. I’ve matured since that first shoot, even though I don’t think I’ve become a different person. »
The actress does not defend that The return at Cannes. She is also godmother of the Africas Pavilion which helps to promote African cinema. “I am not an activist but I am proud to have been entrusted with this mission,” she says. I would love to shoot in Africa. »
Of The divide At Feedback, Aïssatou Diallo Sagna has in any case confirmed in two years the full extent of her talent. We look forward to the rest of his career.