The Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) Announces 15th Edition of Annual Flagship Event Durban FilmMart (DFM)

Durban FilmMart 2024: African Visions Unleashed: From Disruption to Accountability

The Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) announces the 15th edition of its annual flagship event Durban FilmMart (DFM), titled “African Visions Unleashed: From Disruption to Accountability“, set to take place from 19 – 22 July 2024. This year’s theme underscores the transformative power of film in reflecting societal issues and championing change, urging the industry towards greater social responsibility and accountability.

In an era marked by significant upheaval and re-evaluation of norms and structures, DFM 2024 aims to interrogate the film industry, providing a platform for critical engagement on pressing issues such as social responsibility, IP protection, artist and filmmaker rights, labour issues, workplace equality, codes of conduct, and the impact of climate change on production. The focus will be on moving beyond traditional narratives to highlight the potential of cinema as a tool for transformation.

“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 world-view 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.”

The 15th DFM will feature a wide-ranging programme designed to foster high-quality collaborations and provide valuable insights into the filmmaking process. Key components of the programme will include fiction, documentary and animation projects in development, showcased in the Pitch and Finance Forum. Additionally, the DFM Industry programme will present keynote talks, masterclasses, panel discussions, and think tanks.

Building on the legacy of the previous year’s theme, “African Constellations”, DFM 2024 continues to celebrate the expansiveness of the African film industry, while also pushing for a future where the industry is as responsible as it is creative. The programme will reflect DFMI’s core values of inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility, with sessions tailored to address key industry challenges and opportunities.

Early bird registration for the event is now open, offering attendees the chance to be part of this important conversation and to network with fellow professionals in a dynamic and engaging environment.

For more information and to register, please visit our website: durbanfilmmart.co.za

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

For further inquiries, contact: [email protected]


About the Durban FilmMart Institute:

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

By Andrew Germishuys

Founder of SAMDB | Actor | Armourer | Tech Enthusiast With over two decades in the film industry, I'm a seasoned actor and skilled armourer. I hold numerous certifications in acting and filmmaking, complemented by degrees and diplomas in IT and technology, giving me a unique blend of creative and technical expertise. When I'm not on set or in the workshop, you'll find me immersed in the world of gaming and VR, fuelling my passion for cutting-edge technology. Connect with me: X / Twitter Facebook Instagram Mastodon Threads Explore my work on SAMDB IMDb