Over the past decade of freedom in South Africa, new talents have emerged in the field of documentary film-making. Finally, ordinary South Africans are beginning to film their unique stories for widespread audiences across the country and the world.
And what stories we have to tell! We have ancient cultures and modern problems, age-old traditions and fast-track technology, vivid landscapes and stories, stories, stories……
Names like Brian Tilley, Dumisani Phakati, Clifford Bestall, Rehad Desai, Angus Gibson, Khalo Matabane, Craig and Damian Foster have become well-known in both local and international documentary filming circles…and it is their example that continues to lead the way.
The South African government has woken up to the fact that film and television are an integral part of the so-called photograph album of South Africa’s past and future - government-led institutions such as the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) have put their hands deep into their pockets to support emerging film-makers.
Institutions like the Film Resource Unit (FRU) are also doing much to raise the profile of South African film, and are responsible for the international distribution of a wide range of South African films including documentary and feature films.
The local broadcasters are playing ball in a big way, and documentaries are gaining in popularity with local audiences. The SABC (South African Broadcasting Corporation) continues to invest time, money and energy in emerging talent.
International Film Market
One of the major events to look out for on the South African film and television calendar is Sithengi (the Southern African International Film and Television Market Initiative), held every year in Cape Town during November. This film market offers an opportunity for international distributors to make a connection with local film-makers and also offers workshops and the opportunity to enjoy the best of South Africa’s television and film offerings.
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For more information on film-making in South Africa contact the following: