The Citizen (KZN)

A showcase of ‘spirit of Africa’

‘AT THE HEART OF AFRICA’S CREATIVE REVOLUTION’

- Citizen reporter

Showcases narratives from emerging voices and pays homage to the trailblaze­rs before them.

With a rich tapestry of varied cultures and narratives, the Johannesbu­rg Film Festival promises to engage audiences not only in Johannesbu­rg, but throughout the African diaspora and beyond.

The inaugural festival was founded on the ambition to create an autonomous platform that not only exposed Africa’s tales, but recognised local and worldwide quality in film.

It has become known as a major platform for displaying local and internatio­nal talent, and it is

preparing for its sixth edition. The event will be held in Sandton and will include an exciting programme of screenings, debates, workshops and networking opportunit­ies.

Film festival executive director Tim Mangwedi said: “In the dynamic landscape of ‘glocalisat­ion’ of media and entertainm­ent, the Joburg Film Festival is a pivotal platform at the heart of Africa’s cultural and creative revolution.

“This sub-Saharan African premier film festival and content market trade fair is set against the back drop of the continent’s rich stories and talent.

“It embodies the spirit of new Africa, one that is eager to showcase its creative prowess and engage in dialogue with the global community,” Mangwedi said. “[It] 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.”

The festival 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 mesmerisin­g 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 honours the establishe­d while propelling the next generation of filmmakers toward greatness.

The 2024 event promises an even more diverse and profound lineup, with more than 60 titles spanning multiple genres, themes, and styles.

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 ?? Pictures: Gallo Images ?? STEPPING OUT. Joe Hesu, Bongiwe Simelane, Timothy Mongwedi, Lunga Nene and Busi Mhaga attend the 2019 Joburg Film Festival Launch.
Pictures: Gallo Images STEPPING OUT. Joe Hesu, Bongiwe Simelane, Timothy Mongwedi, Lunga Nene and Busi Mhaga attend the 2019 Joburg Film Festival Launch.
 ?? ?? ON THE RED CARPET. Hulisani Ravele attends the Joburg Film Festival Launch in 2019.
ON THE RED CARPET. Hulisani Ravele attends the Joburg Film Festival Launch in 2019.
 ?? Pictures: Supplied ?? GLAMMED UP. Nomzamo Mbatha at Joburg Film Festival.
Pictures: Supplied GLAMMED UP. Nomzamo Mbatha at Joburg Film Festival.

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