International Film Market and Festival under way

The annual International Film Market and Festival underway at the V&A Waterfront.
The City of Cape Town is hosting the annual International Film Market and Festival which got under way at the V&A Waterfront yesterday.

The theme of this year’s event which will run until Friday October 19 is “Create, collaborate and celebrate”.

Various programmes over the course of the festival will concentrate on unlocking opportunities for emerging talent and bringing together various role-players within the industry.

Mayoral committee member for safety and security; and social services JP Smith said, “It’s important for the City, together with the Cape Town International Film Market and Festival , to ensure opportunities for local talent, entrepreneurs and SMMEs to play their part and contribute towards the ‘production line’ within the industry. The local economy has a lot to offer in terms of services as well as products and it’s important that other growth sectors within Cape Town’s economy, such as tourism, be linked to what the film industry has to offer.”

The short film genre will take centre stage as it plays a key role as an entry point for upcoming industry talent. 

The festival will conclude with a gala awards dinner. Among the award categories is the “Most Patriotic SA Arts Industry Ambassador Award” which will recognise a South African performer who has walked the extra mile in being an ambassador for Brand South Africa.

For more information on the festival’s 80 feature films, 20 documentaries and 61 short films, visit www.filmfestival.capetown.