13 hours ago
Durban FilmMart 2025: A Focus on South African Cinema
Durban FilmMart Institute Director Magdalene Reddy said that South African cinema stands at a pivotal moment where our local industry expertise must be strengthened and celebrated.
The Durban FilmMart, which runs from 18-21 July in Durban, will have a strong focus on the South African film industry.
The Durban FilmMart said that it remains a gateway to the African and global film industry for local film professionals. 'The 2025 industry programme dedicates significant focus to South African cinema through its comprehensive 'SA in Focus' stream, bringing together the nation's most influential industry bodies, guilds, and creative professionals to address the current state and future of the local audio-visual sector.'
Durban FilmMart Institute Director Magdalene Reddy said that South African cinema stands at a pivotal moment where our local industry expertise must be strengthened and celebrated. 'The 'SA in Focus' stream recognises that sustainable growth in African filmmaking begins with a robust foundation in our home market. By bringing together our guilds and industry leaders, DFM fosters the collaborative partnerships essential for our sector's advancement.'
Reddy added that through this programming stream, DFM 2025 demonstrates an unwavering commitment to strengthening South African cinema from within, recognising that a thriving local industry forms the foundation for successful international collaboration and growth.
eThekwini Municipality, in a statement, said that programme highlights include the flagship State of the South African Audio-Visual Industry session, featuring key stakeholders such as the National Film and Video Foundation, SABC, and various provincial commissions. 'The programme will also explore topics such as artificial intelligence's creative influence, copyright in the digital age, and strategies for international co-productions. Panel discussions hosted by major guilds, including the South African Guild of Actors, the Writers' Guild of South Africa and the Editors Guild, will address critical issues such as storytelling, sustainability, and creative ownership.'
eThekwini Municipality added that standout sessions include The African Aesthetic, Directors as Cultural Architects, and Independent Producers Organisation to Intellectual Property, on global market access. 'This year's DFM focus on collaboration and professional development underscores its continued role in shaping a thriving and future-ready South African film industry.'
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