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Exploring the vibrant world of African cinema: Durban FilmMart 2023 highlights
The Durban FilmMart (DFM) has long been a beacon for African filmmakers, offering a platform to showcase their talents and stories. The 15th edition, held from July 19 to 22, 2023, was no exception. This year, the event welcomed 1,460 industry professionals and filmmakers from 58 countries, creating a melting pot of creativity and innovation. Let’s delve into the highlights and award winners of this year’s DFM, which celebrated the rich tapestry of African cinema.
Acts of Man: A supernatural crime series that captivated audiences
One of the standout winners at the DFM was the South African supernatural crime series “Acts of Man.” Created by Sheetal Magan and Sean Drummond, the series follows two city detectives investigating a brutal ritualistic killing in a remote mountain town. The conservative community is convinced that the devil is at work, adding a layer of supernatural intrigue to the crime narrative. The series won the Known Inner Circle Award, which included a cash prize of $10,000. The show has already garnered international attention, with Casey Walker of Toronto-based Cave Painting Pictures, veteran Canadian producer Todd Brown (“The Raid,” “Mandy”), and Naysun Alae-Carew at Blazing Griffin in the U.K. on board. For more details, check out the trailer and information sheet.
Africa AI: Unveiling the hidden costs of artificial intelligence
“Africa AI,” a documentary by Amilcar Patel and Chris Kets, took home multiple awards, including the Red Sea Film Fund Award for documentary and the DOK Leipzig Award. The film investigates the hidden costs of artificial intelligence for the African continent, from the extraction of raw natural resources to its effects on labor rights, privacy, equality, and ideas of freedom. This thought-provoking documentary sheds light on the often-overlooked consequences of technological advancement. For more insights, watch the trailer and information sheet.
We Had the Moon!: A personal exploration of racism, colonialism, and slavery
Pamella Edouard’s “We Had the Moon!” is a deeply personal exploration of the impact of racism, colonialism, and slavery in her native Mauritius. The project won four awards, including prizes from South Africa’s National Film and Video Foundation, Swiss doc fest Visions du Réel, and Movies That Matter. Edouard’s poignant storytelling and unique perspective make this documentary a must-watch. Discover more through the trailer and information sheet.
The Moon Can’t Run: A Zambian space race adventure
Another big winner was the South African-Zambian fiction feature “The Moon Can’t Run,” directed by Naishe Nyamubaya and produced by Shveta Naidoo. The film tells the story of a ragtag Zambian effort to join the space race, blending humor and ambition in a unique narrative. The project won the Game Changer Films Award and the MTN Group Digital Award. For a sneak peek, view the trailer and information sheet.
Londoner: Flickering hopes and shattered dreams
Babatunde Apalowo’s “Londoner” won the Red Sea Film Fund Award for fiction. The film, produced by Pamela Drameh and Sarudzayi Marufu, explores the flickering hopes and shattered dreams of its characters, offering a poignant look at the human condition. This Nigerian film has already garnered significant attention and is set to make waves in the international film circuit. Learn more by watching the trailer and information sheet.
A celebration of African talent and storytelling
The Durban FilmMart 2023 was a testament to the strength and diversity of African cinema. From supernatural crime series to thought-provoking documentaries, the event showcased a wide range of genres and narratives. The talent and creativity on display were truly inspiring, and the awards highlighted the exceptional work being done by African filmmakers.
Reflecting on the event, Magdalene Reddy, director of the Durban FilmMart Institute, said, “The talent showcased in this year’s program and film projects presented exemplify the strength of African cinema. The memories made, networks expanded, and partnerships forged have significantly contributed to DFM’s enduring legacy and impact.”
As we look forward to future editions of the Durban FilmMart, it’s clear that African cinema is on the rise, with filmmakers continuing to push boundaries and tell compelling stories. The 2023 DFM was a celebration of this vibrant and dynamic industry, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds.
For a full rundown of the Durban FilmMart award winners and more information on the films and series mentioned, visit the DFM official website.
