DFM Packed Full of Events for Filmmakers

 

By Fred Felton | 20 Jul. 2024

This year the Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) presents the 15^th edition of Durban FilmMart (DFM), and the theme for this year is ‘’African Visions Unleased: From Disruption to Accountablility.’’

Headline speakers at DFM. | Photo: DFM. 

DFM takes place in Durban, South Africa from 19 – 22 July 2024. This year South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy and the Durban FilmMart 2024 edition embraces three decades of transformation and legacy. The DFM has been instrumental in shaping the discussions about the South African film industry, and it has fostered a symbiotic relationship between filmmakers and the industry over its 15-year existence.

The DFM 2024 programme promotes 30 years of democracy and it will feature a series of ‘’SA in Focus’’ sessions as well as the DFM Access Programme, exploring the film industry development in SA, aspirations and challenges.

‘’Celebrating 30 years of democracy in South Africa at DFM means reflecting on the multiplicity of opportunities our democracy has created for local filmmakers. As we look back on the progress made – from creativity and resilience to strategic thinking – our democracy has not only provided access to platforms but has also opened doors to diverse storytelling, enabling filmmakers to tackle bold and disruptive narratives,’’ said Magdalene Reddy, Director of the Durban FilmMart Institute.

Some of the highlights of DFM so far have included a NFVF Masterclass: Marketing Your Project with Nicola Ofoego.

In this Masterclass Nicola Ofoego showed the audience how to market a film and included some key marketing basics for filmmakers.

‘’Who is the audience of your film or series?’’ asked Nicola Ofoego. 

In a packed Netflix workshop Neil Brandt led a panel of Dorothy Ghettuba from Netflix and filmmakers Jayan Moodley and Katleho Ramaphakela.

Dorothy Ghettuba advised that at present Netflix is looking at Non-fiction works, Drama, Romance, Comedy, Crime Thrillers and even Mystery.

‘’You are going to get a film on Netflix by making your own films,’’ advised Neil Brandt.

On Day 2 of DFM key highlights included a Producer’s Lounge hosted by Dragon Productions where producers networked over a cup of coffee.

Later in the day Katie Irwin shared tips on sales and distribution for filmmakers.

Actors listened intently to a masterclass on the business of acting with Steven Adams. He shared tips and advice for thespians.

‘’Treat yourself like a business,’’ said Steven Adams.

The Actors in the audience were also encouraged to have a business plan.

‘’Connect with Producers you want to work with,’’ advised Adams.

There are still many more useful events to look forward to on Sunday and Monday.

On Sunday look out for Speed Meetings where you can meet the French Film Professionals and later in the day look forward to a workshop with the Industrial Development Corporation.

For Monday you can look forward to a Netflix Masterclass with Chris Mack and later on look forward to opportunities for the audio visual industry courtesy of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority.

The Durban FilmMart Institute receives principal funding from the Durban Film Office and the eThekwini Municipality.

To register for DFM visit https://durbanfilmart.co.za/

For more information visit: info@durbanfilmmart.com