The ninth annual Eastern Cape Film Festival workshop is where film enthusiasts can learn the intricacies of the film industry from established individuals.
The workshop will take place at Love Life Centre in KwaNobuhle, Kariega, from Friday, March 21 until 23 under the theme: ‘Legacy: The Art of Making Short Films, Creating a Content Future.’
The Director of ECFF, Nceba Mqolomba, and the award winner of the 2022 South African Film and Television Awards for best individual contributor to film in the province, shared with UD Express, “The reason for this festival is to provide a platform where local, creative filmmakers and enthusiasts, encompassing upcoming, aspiring and experienced filmmakers, can come together for three days to network and discuss how we can position the Eastern Cape as a film destination.”
He added that Eastern Cape residents often relocate to larger cities, such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, to make a name for themselves in the film industry, owing to the lack of opportunities in the province.
The issue is that the province is losing its creatives because of this. To combat it, he started the film festival for residents of the Eastern Cape.
“The festival will include workshops and masterclasses with experts.”
He also added, “The Eastern Cape Film Festival has become an essential element of the province’s developing film production economy. It attracts value through critical engagements that set an agenda for local growth. This year’s festival will continue this vital work.”
Mqolomba mentioned that in 2023, the ECFF conducted a scriptwriting programme with 10 scripts selected for production. In 2024, these 10 short films were produced in the Eastern Cape, creating over 300 jobs and prioritising skills development.
He added, “The festival will feature panel sessions with local filmmakers, service providers, and community members involved in the productions. The festival’s location in the community where many films were shot will allow residents to see their community on the big screen.”
The festival activities will feature panel discussions on the state of film in the province, facilitated by Zwai Bala, complemented by masterclasses and workshops conducted by award-winning filmmakers and talent, including Zwai Mgijima, Unathi Platyi, Zwai Bala, Nceba Mqolomba, Siya Sityana, and Sakhe Jele.
Additionally, there are stakeholder presentations from the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC), and Film and Publications Board (FPB).
Attendees will also have the opportunity to join film screenings with interactive “Meet the Cast and Crew” Q&A sessions and participate in networking events with industry experts and peers.
Mqolomba added, “I see the Eastern Cape as the next film destination. We have the locations, we have the stories, and we have the talent. I have more than hope; I have belief.”
Entrance to the festival is free, but space is limited. Entrants must email info.ecfilmfestival.co.za to secure their spot, as it is first come first served.
