The 15th edition of the Durban FilmMart (DFM) is set to take place from July 19-22, 2024, under the thought-provoking theme “African Visions Unleashed: From Disruption to Accountability.” Organized by the Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI), this year’s event promises to be a transformative gathering for the African film industry, emphasizing the power of film in addressing societal issues and promoting greater social responsibility and accountability.

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A Call to Action

In an era marked by significant upheaval and the reassessment of societal norms, DFM 2024 aims to engage critically with the film industry on pressing issues such as social responsibility, intellectual property protection, artist and filmmaker rights, labor issues, workplace equality, codes of conduct, and the impact of climate change on production. This year’s event seeks to move beyond traditional narratives, highlighting the potential of cinema as a transformative tool.

“Film is more than an art form or a business; it is a powerful mirror for society, offering reflections that can lead to real change,” says Magdalene Reddy, Director of the Durban FilmMart Institute. “This year, we aim to spotlight the critical role of film in shaping our worldview and touching lives, making ‘Lights, Camera, Action’ a call to action for every participant – an action that harnesses the possibilities of cinema as a major tool for impact.”

Programme Highlights

Breaking Barriers: Gender Equality and Justice in the Film Industry
This panel will explore systemic challenges faced by women and non-binary individuals in the industry and strategies for fostering inclusive representation and equitable opportunities.

NFVF: Future Proofing the Industry – Technology and the Film Industry
Presented in partnership with the National Film and Video Foundation, this session will explore how technology and AI can be ethically used to benefit all involved while fostering growth in the filmmaking landscape.

Paid In Full: Social Responsibility of the Film Industry
This discussion will focus on the role of filmmakers and institutions in addressing social responsibility during times of conflict and upheaval.

Animation@DFM Highlights
DFM 2024 will spotlight the innovative world of animation through the Animation@DFM strand, showcasing eight remarkable animation projects in the Pitch and Finance Forum and presenting numerous engaging sessions in the Industry Programme.

Talking Cents Stream
The Talking Cents stream will focus on financing and distribution, offering invaluable insights for filmmakers navigating the complexities of funding.

Why You Should Attend

DFM 2024 is not just another industry event; it’s a dynamic and engaging environment for film professionals, artists, and stakeholders to engage in meaningful conversations and collaborations. Here’s why you should attend:

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders, filmmakers, and artists from across Africa and the globe.
• Educational Insights: Gain knowledge from experts on the latest trends, technologies, and ethical practices in the film industry.
• Advocacy and Change: Be part of critical discussions that aim to drive the African film industry towards a more inclusive, accountable, and socially responsible future.
• Showcase Your Work: For filmmakers, DFM provides a platform to showcase your projects to a global audience and potential investors.
• Collaborative Ventures: Explore opportunities for cross-country partnerships, especially in the burgeoning field of animation.

Join the Movement

As the African film industry continues to evolve, events like DFM 2024 play a crucial role in shaping its future. By attending, you become part of a movement that values inclusivity, accountability, and the transformative power of cinema. Don’t miss this opportunity to be at the forefront of change.

Registration for participation in the market is currently open. For more information and to register, please visit our website: www.durbanfilmmart.co.za.

Support and Partnerships

The Durban FilmMart Institute receives its primary funding from the Durban Film Office and the eThekwini Municipality. The event is supported by various organizations, including the Ford Foundation, Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, NEFTI, KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission, National Film and Video Foundation, Netflix, CNC, French Institute in South Africa, Industrial Development Corporation, KZN Convention Bureau, International Emerging Film Talent Association, Eastern Cape Development Corporation, and Dante Languages.

DFM 2024 also benefits from partnerships with esteemed organizations and festivals such as the Durban International Film Festival, African Real Collective, Animation SA, Berlinale Talents, Cinemart, Digital Lab Africa, Doc Society, Documentary Filmmakers Association, Encounters South African International Documentary Film Festival, European Audiovisual Entrepreneurs, FIPRESCI, Hot Docs-Blue Ice Docs Fund, Independent Black Filmmakers Collective, Independent Producers Organisation, Locations Africa, Produire au Sud, South African Guild of Actors, SWIFT, and Writers Guild of South Africa.

About the Durban FilmMart Institute

The Durban FilmMart Institute is the business hub of the African film industry, where film professionals and content are globally competitive and celebrated. The institute’s mission is to provide appropriate and effective programs and services to promote, support, and facilitate investment in the African film industry.

For further inquiries, contact: info@durbanfilmmart.com.

Join us at Durban FilmMart 2024 and be part of the change!