The Durban FilmMart kicked off on Friday in South Africa, with passionate and hopeful representatives discussing the successes and challenges of the country’s film industry three decades into democracy.
Onke Dumeko, head of operations at South Africa’s National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), highlighted the industry’s blend of anger and courage. There is a demand for beautiful work, but meeting that demand and securing funding are the real challenges, Dumeko said.
South Africa, Africa’s largest economy, has faced issues like high crime and unemployment rates, as well as frequent power outages. Dumeko pointed out that budget shortfalls at the NFVF reflect broader structural problems that hinder the film industry’s growth.
Comparing South Africa’s film industry to others with similar GDPs, Dumeko noted a lack of intentional focus and vision for the industry’s future. She emphasized the need for a clear plan to realize the potential of the film sector and its impact on the country.
The Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC) faced criticism from filmmakers for issues with the rebate system. Producer Marc Schwinges described it as a significant problem that has hurt the industry, with some producers waiting up to two years for reimbursements.
Schwinges stressed the urgency of resolving these issues, stating, We can’t produce high-level content without reliable funding. Filmmaker Cati Weinek added that the dysfunctional rebate system makes it hard for filmmakers to succeed, highlighting the need for accountability.
Streaming services like Showmax and Netflix have stepped in to support the industry, but cost-cutting measures pose a risk. Producer Layla Swart, a keynote speaker at the event, expressed concerns about the reliance on these platforms, noting the lack of a strong local broadcaster and the impact of Amazon’s departure on jobs.
South African Industry Ponders Its Future as Challenges Mount: ‘We’re Not Cultivating a New Generation’ https://t.co/2BQZtKFPC7 pic.twitter.com/FO66693K83
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Swart warned that without developing new talent, the industry could suffer in the long term. Despite these challenges, the South African film industry has made significant progress since the first democratic elections, providing more opportunities for Black filmmakers and producing content that better represents the population.
Reflecting on the industry’s journey, Yashika Singh from South African public broadcaster SABC said, We’ve come a long way from a place of prejudice to one of new voices and stories. It hasn’t been easy, but the industry has changed significantly.
Overall, the Durban FilmMart served as a platform for reflecting on the past and discussing the future of South Africa’s dynamic film industry. Source
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