The Joburg Film Festival (JFF) has recently announced the theme for its seventh edition, scheduled to take place from 11 – 16 March 2025. The theme, ‘The Golden Thread’, pays homage to Joburg’s identity as the “City of Gold”, highlighting the importance of storytelling as a precious treasure that connects individuals, communities, and cultures.
According to JFF founder, Tim Mangwedi, the theme symbolizes the unbreakable link that storytelling creates, illuminating the lives of residents in Joburg and reflecting the collective wisdom of diverse global communities. The festival aims to bring together filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences from around the world to share experiences and forge connections through the universal language of cinema.
This year’s theme focuses on inspiring storytellers who captivate global audiences and celebrates legends in the film industry. With South Africa’s 30th anniversary of democracy as a guiding force, the 2024 theme was both reflective and forward-looking.
The festival will showcase over 60 local, African, and international curated films, including fiction and documentary features, as well as shorts. Some notable world premieres have already been confirmed, promising an exciting lineup for attendees.
Among the local films to be screened at the festival are ‘Sebata’, a dark South African detective thriller directed by Norman Maake, and ‘Timmy the Kid’, directed by Gray Hofmeyr. Partnered with broadcaster MultiChoice, the festival aims to promote diversity, inclusivity, and the celebration of universal human stories.
In addition to the film program, the festival will feature an industry program called Joburg Xchange (JBX), which includes JBX Business (market), JBX Talks, and JBX Youth. This platform will provide opportunities for networking, learning, and collaboration within the film industry.
The Joburg Film Festival continues to be a platform for showcasing the power of storytelling and its ability to connect people from different backgrounds. As the festival approaches, excitement builds for what promises to be a memorable and inspiring event for filmmakers and audiences alike.
