Listen up, filmmakers, and connoisseurs. The Joburg Film Festival, in partnership with MultiChoice, is making its return in the first quarter of 2024. The festival brings together filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinema enthusiasts for a celebration of storytelling through film.
Joburg Film Festival Returns
With a rich tapestry of diverse cultures and narratives, the festival promises to captivate audiences not just in Joburg, but across the African diaspora and beyond. The festival was born out of the desire to create an exciting, independent platform that not only tells Africa’s stories but also rewards local and international excellence in film.
The première festival will take place from the 27th of February to the 3rd of March 2024.
Renowned as a prominent platform for showcasing local and international talent, the festival is gearing up for a sixth edition of an extraordinary presentation of cinematic excellence. Scheduled to take place in Sandton, the event will feature a captivating line-up of screenings, discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Celebrating African Stories
The Joburg Film Festival stands as a grand celebration honouring the art of storytelling while embracing the legacy of cinematic legends. With its central theme focused on inspiring storytellers who captivate audiences across the globe, the festival will further celebrate these legends in film.
“ Now in its 6th year, the Joburg Film Festival continues to celebrate the art of filmmaking. It brings together the best of African cinema, offering a window into the soul of a continent bursting with inspiring stories waiting to be told and heard on the international stage by Africans”.
Tim Mangwedi, Joburg Film Festival Executive Director
It serves as a platform that not only showcases groundbreaking narratives from emerging voices but also pays homage to the trailblazers and luminaries whose works have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. From thought-provoking panel discussions to mesmerizing screenings, the festival reverberates with the energy of passionate storytellers, eager to inspire and be inspired.
It’s a harmonious blend where the past meets the present, fostering an environment that honors the established whilst propelling the next generation of filmmakers toward greatness.
A Diverse Audience and Crew
The festival also aims to spotlight emerging talent alongside established filmmakers, offering a platform for creative expression and storytelling that reflects the richness of Africa’s cinematic landscape.
In its previous editions, the Joburg Film Festival has been celebrated for its commitment to presenting compelling narratives that resonate with audiences globally. The upcoming event promises an even more diverse and impactful line-up, featuring over 60 titles spanning various genres, themes, and styles.
Multichoice Partnership
With all that said, it should come as no surprise to learn that MultiChoice has been one of the festival’s biggest supporters. As an authentic African brand, MultiChoice’s identity is intricately woven with storytelling at its core. Moving beyond the conventional organisational role, MultiChoice assumes the mantle of storytellers, artfully crafting the vibrant tapestry of the continent.
The resurgence of the Joburg Film Festival marks a pivotal milestone for the company. This collaboration transcends the boundaries of a typical event, presenting a dynamic platform where imaginative minds from around the globe converge.
Within this space, narratives take flight beyond borders, casting a renewed spotlight on the diverse and captivating stories that define Africa. The commitment extends beyond the revival of a festival; MultiChoice seeks to reignite the flame of African storytelling, extending an invitation to the world to witness the profound depth, passion, and creativity embedded in these narratives.
Helping Tell Stories
In line with the festival’s commitment to supporting the development of the African film industry, the festival runs a series of workshops, masterclasses, and networking sessions aimed at nurturing aspiring filmmakers and industry professionals around its four key pillars.
- The Film Programme
- The Industry Programme
- Youth and Audience Development Programme
- JBX Content Market
JBX Content Market
As an extension of the festival, the JBX market will again this year form a large part of the film festival. The Market serves as a fertile ground for budding talents and seasoned veterans alike, fostering connections that transcend borders and cultures. Amidst the whirlwind of deal-making and artistic exchange, the market resonates with the sheer passion and dedication that drive the soul of the filmmaking community, marking it as a cornerstone of the Joburg Film Festival’s dynamic spirit.
With 50+ registered buyers from various countries already signed up for next year, the B2B in-person platform aims to fast-track the transformation of Africa’s audio-visual industries. JBX registration is already open with a 15% Early Bird Special discount available for producer and visitor badges as well as exhibition stands. For more info, check out the JFF website.
JBX will include several areas, i.e., the Market, which is an exhibiting area with fully customisable and brandable spaces; The Networking Area-JBX Networking Terrace, The JBX Conversations Theatre where panel discussion and a range of masterclasses will take place and The JBX Connect Lounge.
Further details about the festival program, including featured films, special events, and guest speakers, will be announced in the coming weeks.
Further details 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 in early 2024 will be shared across the Film Festival’s online platforms.
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