IN a groundbreaking moment for African cinema, the 7th Joburg Film Festival is set to illuminate the city’s screens this March with the world premiere of “Ernest Cole: Lost and Found,” a compelling documentary about one of South Africa’s most influential photographers. The film, which captivated audiences and claimed the Best Documentary award at Cannes, will kick off six days of cinematic excellence from March 11-16, 2025.
Directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Raoul Peck, known for “Lumumba” and “I Am Not Your Negro,” the documentary unravels the extraordinary tale of Ernest Cole’s life and his powerful documentation of the apartheid era. The film’s opening adds another layer of poignancy to Cole’s story, particularly following the recent discovery of his hidden work in a Swedish bank vault – a collection that has since been returned to his family and is currently showcased at Cape Town’s Goodman Gallery.
“This feature explores not only Cole’s incredible body of work but also his tragic and untimely death whilst in exile at the age of 49,” says festival curator Nhlanhla Ndaba. “With exclusive access to his photos and a profound exploration of his legacy, this documentary serves as a long-awaited homecoming for a man whose dream was always to return to South Africa.”
The festival’s lineup promises to be equally compelling, featuring 28 African premieres and 12 world premieres. Among the highlights are “BOS,” a groundbreaking South African post-apocalyptic thriller, and “Happy – The True Story of Happy Sindane,” which chronicles the fascinating journey of a white teenager raised by a Black family searching for his biological parents.
South African cinema takes center stage with two prestigious selections: “Old Righteous Blues,” the country’s official Oscar submission, and “The Last Ranger,” an Oscar-nominated film that showcases the growing influence of African storytelling in global cinema.
Following “The Golden Thread” – this year’s festival theme – the event will transform Johannesburg into a vibrant celebration of film, featuring over 100 international selections, red-carpet premieres, and exclusive industry networking opportunities. The festival also demonstrates its commitment to nurturing new talent by showcasing student films from prestigious institutions like AFDA, TUT, UCT, and WITS.
The Joburg Film Festival continues to establish itself as a crucial platform for African storytelling, bringing together established and emerging voices in what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of cinema. As the continent’s storytelling prowess continues to gain international recognition, this year’s festival stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of African film.
For film enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, the festival offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the future of African cinema unfold against the vibrant backdrop of Johannesburg, South Africa’s cultural heartbeat.
