We’re a few days away from the 2024 edition of the Joburg Film Festival, and the festival has proudly announced “London Recruits” as the opening film.
London Recruits To Open Joburg Film Festival
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Gordan Main and produced by Jacinta De Nobrega and Robyn Slovo, London Recruits promises to set the stage for an electrifying cinematic experience at one of Africa’s most prestigious film events.
The film takes audiences on a gripping journey through the tumultuous 1960s, where a group of young activists embarks on covert missions to combat apartheid in South Africa. Based on true events, the film illuminates a lesser-known chapter of history, blending elements of espionage, courage, and sacrifice.
The film features a talented ensemble cast, including emerging talents and seasoned actors, delivering powerful performances that breathe life into the historical narrative. With its blend of suspenseful storytelling, historical significance, and thought-provoking themes, the film promises to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression.
Selective Film Jurors
In addition to this announcement, the Joburg Film Festival is proud to introduce the esteemed panel of jurors who will be responsible for selecting the winning films for this year’s awards. The diverse panel comprises industry professionals who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.
The five jurors for this year’s festival are as follows:
- Tosh Gitonga is a renowned Kenyan-born, Paris-based producer and director with a keen eye for storytelling and a passion for promoting African cinema on the global stage
- Nthati Moshesh is a multiple award-winning actress recognized for her long-standing contributions to the advancement of storytelling, not just in South Africa but across the film world at large
- Dr Jerry Mofokeng wa Makthetha is a multiple award-winning stage and screen actor known for roles in several critically acclaimed films, including Cry The Beloved Country; Lord of War; Mandela and de Klerk, and the 2005 Academy Award-winning film Tsotsi
- Pape Boye, through his various business ventures, has helped finance and co-produce content in Africa and the Middle East for over 2 decades
- Andrea Voges is a multi-talented film professional, including roles as a film festival manager, head of programming, and project director. With a career spanning almost two decades, she has worked to support and promote the work of artists across the globe through various festivals and projects.
These 5 jurors will have the difficult task of reviewing and judging the 15 selected features in competition to select the winners. These include:
Best African / Diaspora Film
- Hajjan (Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan)
- Mami Tata (Nigeria)
- Under the Hanging Tree (Namibia)
- Yellow Bus (UAE)
Best Film
- Death of a Whistleblower (SA)
- Snake (SA)
- Thus Spoke Zolani (SA)
- All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt (USA)
- Mandoob (Saudi Arabia)
- Tiger Stripes (Malaysia)
- Whisper of Fire and Water (India)
Best Documentary
- Bye Bye Tiberias (Belgium and Palestine)
- London Recruits (SA, UK)
- Lifes Through this Lens: Sam Nzima (SA)
- Who I am not (USA and Romania)
Audience Awards
The festival is breaking new ground this year by introducing an innovative feature that empowers its audience like never before. For the very first time, the audience will have the opportunity to directly influence an awards category by participating in an in-cinema ballot vote to select their favourite film for the Audience Award.
This initiative not only enhances the interactive experience for movie goers but also democratizes the festival, allowing the diverse audience to have a say in celebrating the cinematic arts. By giving voice to the viewers, the Joburg Film Festival underscores its commitment to inclusivity and engagement, promising an exciting and immersive event for film enthusiasts of all backgrounds.
Get Your Tickets
The festival will be kicking off on Monday 27th February 2023, and runs until Sunday, 3rd March 2023 at various locations across Joburg.
Tickets for the Joburg Film Festival are available from Quicket, South Africa’s premier online ticketing platform.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of storytelling at one of Africa’s premier film festivals at one of the participating cinemas in Rosebank, Sandton, and Maboneng.
Pastry Playdates 
Leave a comment