Organizers of the Joburg Film Festival have announced the dates for the much-anticipated seventh edition of the prestigious event. They also revealed a national call out for local filmmakers to submit their films for consideration in next year’s festival.
In collaboration with Africa’s top Pay TV broadcaster, MultiChoice, the festival will be held from March 11th to 16th, 2025, in the heart of Sandton. This year’s event will once again unite filmmakers, industry professionals and film lovers to celebrate the art of storytelling through cinema.
As Africa’s leading film festival, the Joburg Film Festival remains dedicated to celebrating cinematic excellence and supporting emerging filmmakers. For the first time since its inception, the festival’s curation team is inviting local filmmakers to submit their features or shorts for consideration in next year’s event. Submissions opened online last week and will close on Tuesday, October 15, 2024. For detailed submission guidelines and other rules, please visit www.joburgfilmfestival.co.za.
At the heart of the festival is a meticulously curated film programme celebrating cinematic excellence and promoting diversity through a wide array of films and the upcoming edition will once again focus on over 60 inspiring titles from across the globe which are sure to captivate audiences. From engaging panel discussions to mesmerizing film screenings, the festival promises to be a dynamic blend of past and present, celebrating both established and up-and-coming filmmakers. The festival remains committed to promoting diverse perspectives and voices, providing a platform for both emerging talent and established filmmakers.
“In the ever-evolving landscape of global media and entertainment, the Joburg Film Festival stands at the forefront of Africa’s cultural and creative revolution,” said Nhlanhla Ndaba, Joburg Film Festival Curator. “Now in its 7th year, the festival continues to celebrate filmmaking excellence, offering a unique window into the heart of a continent rich with inspiring stories waiting to be shared on the international stage. In addition the team is thrilled to invite local filmmakers to submit their work for consideration in next year’s festival, marking this opportunity for the first time in the festival’s history.
MultiChoice, a key supporter of the festival, continues to play a vital role. As a leading African brand with storytelling at its core, MultiChoice is dedicated to crafting a vibrant tapestry of the continent’s creative talent. The festival represents more than just an a week of events; it offers a dynamic platform where creative minds from around the world converge, illuminating the diverse and captivating stories that define Africa.
“At MultiChoice, we’re passionate about telling African stories on the global stage. Film and TV are the heartbeats of our content, and we’re committed to supporting both industries”, says Nomsa Philiso, CEO for General Entertainment at MultiChoice Group.“As the biggest investor in local content, we’re proud to play a pivotal role in ensuring that African storytelling continues to thrive,” adds Philiso.
All other information about the festival program, including featured films, special events, and guest speakers, will be announced in the coming months. Updates on ticket sales and participation guidelines for the Joburg Film Festival will be shared through the festival’s online platforms from now until early 2025.
