The Joburg Film Festival is gearing up to be a cinematic spectacle. This year, it promises a vibrant showcase of fresh talent.
Showmax, in partnership with the festival, launched an initiative in 2023. They put out an open call for movies from first-time directors, who hail from Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa.
SUBMISSIONS FOR THE JOBURG FILM FESTIVAL
After sifting through 296 submissions, the festival will premiere seven films, according to Showmax Stories.
These films are the result of opening the industry to new voices. The festival runs from 11 to 16 March 2025.
Afterward, the films will be available on Showmax from April.
THE JOBURG FILM FESTIVAL AND SHOWMAX
Tracy Ann van Rooyen, Showmax’s executive head of content, is excited. “Showmax is committed to opening up the industry,” she says.
“We’re delighted to showcase a new wave of filmmakers at this year’s Joburg Film Festival.”
She highlighted Showmax’s previous success with first-time filmmakers. They helped Mandla N and Kelsey Egan produce their first movies, which won SAFTAs, according to The Citizen.
FILMS TO WATCH
- Adam: Liyema Speelman directs this drama. It follows a teenager clashing with his teacher at a farm school. Marko Vorster and Antoinette Louw star, and it premieres on 16 March and streams from 4 April.
- Kites: Menzi Mzimela directs this Jozi-based thriller. A chauffeur and his DJ mates must dispose of a dead body. Craig Nobela and Aphiwe Mkefe star. and it premieres on 11 March and streams from 25 April.
- Bet I Love You: Nigerian director Joseph Duke tells the story of Rex. Rex is a gambler who loses his sister’s lobola money. Khumbuza Meyiwa and Nosipho Majola star, and this film premieres on 12 March and streams from 23 May.
- Bobo: Kenyan director Maurice Muendo presents Bobo’s plight. Bobo misses a bursary chance, and her family risks losing their land. Faith Muthoni stars, and it premieres on 14 March and streams from 23 May.
- Ndingowakho: Siphokazi Mtila directs this township tale. Thandi moves back in with her estranged mother. Pamela Mabedumane and Talitha Ndima star, and this one premieres on 14 March and streams from 11 April.
- Pheletso: Zack Mtombeni directs this mystery. KB wakes up in hospital with amnesia after a wild night. Mpho Sibeko and Kay Bikitsha star, and it premieres on 13 March and streams from 18 April.
- Perfect Match: Mphomotseng Hoelejane directs this comedy. A lobola negotiation mix-up leads to an unexpected engagement. Nay Maps and Lungelo Madondo star, the film premieres on 15 March and streams from 12 April.
A PANEL OF INDUSTRY EXPERTS
A panel of industry experts whittled down the submissions, with Cheryl Uys-Allie chairing the jury. She said the project was about finding authentic African stories, according to Urban Lifestyle.
The directors were paired with experienced production companies. This ensured a smooth transition into feature film direction.
THE JOBURG FILM FESTIVAL AND AFRICAN CINEMA
The Joburg Film Festival is not just about entertainment, as it nurtures the African film industry. It promotes diverse storytelling. The festival is a cultural experience.
Another film from this initiative will premiere at Silwerskerm later in the year. For more information, visit the Joburg Film Festival website.
ARE YOU EXCITED ABOUT THE JOBURG FILM FESTIVAL?
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