The Joburg Film Festival is set to make waves this year, offering an exciting platform for fresh, diverse voices in the film industry.

This annual celebration is gearing up to showcase a collection of innovative films, many of which come from new and emerging directors across Africa.

It’s an event that promises to be as much about new talent as it is about telling important stories.

Showmax’s Partnership and Open Call

In 2023, Showmax teamed up with the Joburg Film Festival to create a groundbreaking initiative.

They launched a special call for submissions from first-time directors in Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa, aiming to amplify voices that have often been overlooked in mainstream cinema.

The response was overwhelming, with nearly 300 submissions from filmmakers eager to showcase their talents.

Seven Exciting Premieres

After carefully reviewing the submissions, Showmax and the festival have selected seven standout films to premiere at this year’s event.

The Joburg Film Festival will run from March 11 to 16, 2025, and it will be a thrilling time for movie lovers to experience some of the freshest perspectives in African filmmaking.

After their festival premieres, these films will be available for streaming on Showmax starting in April.

Showmax’s Commitment to New Talent

Tracy Ann van Rooyen, the executive head of content at Showmax, is clearly thrilled about this initiative.

She’s passionate about Showmax’s role in helping open up the film industry to new filmmakers.

Van Rooyen mentioned how the platform had already supported emerging directors in the past, such as Mandla N and Kelsey Egan, who won SAFTAs for their debut films.

It’s a testament to Showmax’s ongoing commitment to nurturing new talent in the film industry.

Films You Can’t Miss

There are several exciting films lined up, each offering a unique narrative from different corners of Africa. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s to come:

Adam: Directed by Liyema Speelman, this drama follows a teenager at a farm school as he clashes with his teacher. Starring Marko Vorster and Antoinette Louw, it will premiere on March 16 and stream from April 4.
Kites: A Jozi-based thriller directed by Menzi Mzimela, where a group of friends must dispose of a dead body. Craig Nobela and Aphiwe Mkefe star, with a premiere date on March 11 and streaming from April 25.
Bet I Love You: Nigerian director Joseph Duke brings the story of Rex, a gambler who loses his sister’s lobola money. The film stars Khumbuza Meyiwa and Nosipho Majola, with a premiere on March 12 and streaming from May 23.
Bobo: Directed by Maurice Muendo from Kenya, this film follows Bobo as she faces a tough choice that could cost her family their land. Starring Faith Muthoni, it premieres on March 14 and streams from May 23.
Ndingowakho: Directed by Siphokazi Mtila, this film tells the story of Thandi, who moves back in with her estranged mother. Pamela Mabedumane and Talitha Ndima star, with a premiere on March 14 and streaming from April 11.
Pheletso: Directed by Zack Mtombeni, this mystery film explores what happens when KB wakes up with amnesia after a wild night. Mpho Sibeko and Kay Bikitsha star, and it premieres on March 13, streaming from April 18.
Perfect Match: A comedy by Mphomotseng Hoelejane about a lobola negotiation mix-up that leads to an unexpected engagement. Starring Nay Maps and Lungelo Madondo, the film will premiere on March 15 and stream from April 12.

A Panel of Industry Experts

The films were selected by a panel of industry experts, led by Cheryl Uys-Allie.

The goal was to uncover authentic African stories that could resonate on a global scale.

The directors behind these films were also paired with experienced production companies, ensuring they had the guidance and resources to make their debut films a success.

The Joburg Film Festival: More Than Just Movies

The Joburg Film Festival is more than just a place to watch great films; it’s a celebration of African cinema and culture.

It’s about bringing diverse, authentic stories to the forefront and creating a space where filmmakers from across the continent can thrive.

The festival’s commitment to nurturing the industry is evident in the way it fosters up-and-coming talent and gives them the platform they need to succeed.

In addition, another film from this initiative will be premiering at Silwerskerm later this year, further expanding the reach and impact of these new voices in African cinema.

Stay Updated

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