*** (From L-R) CEO – General Entertainment Multichoice Nomsa Philiso, Tim Mangwedi – JFF Executive Director / Founder and Gauteng MEC of Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation Morakane Mosupyoe ***
By Saul Molobi
The Joburg Film Festival’s sixth edition concluded with a triumphant flourish, celebrating the art of cinema with a dazzling awards ceremony at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg North. The festival’s vibrant canvas extended from Sandton to Milpark, offering audiences a captivating journey through the world of film, with over 30 countries represented and a rich tapestry of stories woven on screen.
“YELLOW BUS” emerged as the crowning jewel, earning the coveted title of Best Film. This gripping feature, set against the backdrop of a sand-swept city in the Arabian Gulf and shot across four distinct countries, mesmerized audiences with its evocative setting and compelling storyline. Its win underscored the universal power of cinematic storytelling to transcend borders and captivate hearts.
Meanwhile, “DEATH OF A WHISTLEBLOWER” shone as the Best African Film, a testament to the talent and creativity thriving within the South African film industry. This local production delved into the complexities of contemporary South Africa, tackling themes of corruption, morality, and justice with gripping intensity, resonating deeply with viewers and earning its well-deserved recognition.
On the documentary front, “LONDON RECRUITS” stood out, claiming the prestigious Best Documentary award. Directed by Gordan Main and brought to life by producers Jacinta De Nobrega and Robyn Slovo, this compelling documentary delved into the tumultuous landscape of the 1960s, shedding light on a lesser-known chapter of history and offering audiences a thought-provoking journey through time.
Additionally, “WHO I AM NOT” received a Special Mention, bringing visibility and voice to an often overlooked community. Directed by Tünde Skovrán, this moving and taboo-breaking documentary explored the lives of two intersex South Africans, highlighting their struggles and triumphs in a society that often marginalizes their experiences.
Behind the scenes, an esteemed jury of industry luminaries, including Tosh Gitonga, Nthati Moshesh, Dr. Jerry Mofokeng wa Makthetha, Pape Boye, and Andrea Voges, deliberated on the festival’s standout films, lending their expertise and discerning eye to the selection process.
Moreover, the festival’s commitment to nurturing young talent was evident with the announcement of the Young Voices film competition winner, Ntokozo Mlaba. His short film “Everything Nothing” captured hearts and minds, showcasing the immense potential of emerging filmmakers and earning him recognition and support from industry professionals.
As the festival drew to a close, audiences were still treated to a plethora of cinematic delights across various venues, ensuring that the celebration of film continued to resonate far beyond the awards ceremony. And with the poignant finale, “SNAKE,” directed by Meg Rickards, audiences were invited to immerse themselves in one last cinematic journey, followed by a Q&A session with the director, offering a glimpse into the creative process behind the film and fostering a deeper connection between filmmakers and audiences.
For more information on the Joburg Film Festival 2024, check out
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