Johannesburg, South Africa – The sixth edition of the Joburg Film Festival, presented by Multichoice in collaboration with Absa, concluded with a spectacular awards ceremony held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg North.
Featuring an eclectic array of films from both local and international filmmakers, the festival unfolded across Sandton to Milpark, captivating audiences with its diverse selection. Showcasing cinematic gems from over 30 countries, the festival celebrated the art of storytelling and the rich tapestry of human experiences through documentaries, dramas, and narratives.
The climax of the event brought together industry luminaries eagerly awaiting the announcement of the winning films. Without further delay, let’s reveal the honorees…
In a competitive field, the prestigious title of BEST FILM was awarded to YELLOW BUS. This gripping feature, spanning four countries, transports viewers to a sand-swept city nestled in the heart of the Arabian Gulf, offering an immersive narrative experience and exemplifying the power of cinematic storytelling.
Recognized as the BEST AFRICAN FILM, DEATH OF A WHISTLEBLOWER, a locally produced South African film, captivated audiences with its poignant exploration of corruption, morality, and justice against the backdrop of contemporary South Africa.
Opening the festival with a burst of energy, LONDON RECRUITS clinched the coveted BEST DOCUMENTARY award. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Gordan Main and produced by Jacinta De Nobrega and Robyn Slovo, this documentary delves into the tumultuous landscape of the 1960s, shedding light on a lesser-known chapter of history.
A Special Mention was awarded to WHO I AM NOT, a multi-award-winning documentary directed by Tünde Skovrán. Set in Johannesburg, the film follows the lives of two intersex South Africans, offering a poignant and illuminating portrayal of an underrepresented community.
The esteemed jury for this year’s festival included internationally renowned filmmakers and industry experts such as Kenyan-born producer and director Tosh Gitonga, South African actress Nthati Moshesh, actor Dr. Jerry Mofokeng wa Makthetha, finance expert Pape Boye, and film festival professional Andrea Voges.
Additionally, the 2024 winner of the YOUNG VOICES film competition was announced, recognizing the talent of aspiring filmmakers. Ntokozo Mlaba received the YOUNG VOICE Award for his short film Everything Nothing, earning a bursary and internship opportunity. Absa pledged further support for Mlaba’s crowdfunding project with an additional cash injection of R150,000.
As the Joburg Film Festival drew to a close, a diverse selection of local and international films continued to grace screens across various venues, offering audiences an array of cinematic experiences.
Concluding the festival with a poignant finale, the South African drama SNAKE took center stage as the closing film. Directed by veteran filmmaker Meg Rickards, this compelling narrative promises to engage audiences with its powerful storytelling and evocative performances. Following the screening at the Theatre of the Square in Nelson Mandela Square, viewers had the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with the director, providing insights into the film’s themes and creative process.
