The Durban FilmMart (DFM) has officially opened submissions for its 15th edition, scheduled to take place from 19 to 22 July 2024 in Durban, South Africa. Renowned as Africa’s premier film finance and co-production market, the DFM has gained international recognition, earning the title of ‘the continent’s best film market’ in UNESCO’s 2021 Film Trends in Africa Report.
The event, hosted by the Durban FilmMart Institute, aims to shine a spotlight on African content and talent, fostering partnerships crucial for the advancement and production of African cinema. Magdalene Reddy, Director of DFMI, expresses pride in the impact of the last 15 years, with DFM alumni projects garnering global interest and accolades, including premieres at Sundance and awards at the Cannes Film Festival.
Call for African Filmmakers
The DFM is inviting submissions for full-length feature and documentary film projects, as well as series content. Projects led by Africans in key creative roles—writers, directors, and producers—are encouraged to apply. The independent selection panel will choose up to ten documentaries and ten fiction feature-length film projects. The selected projects will be unveiled in early May 2024.
Application Criteria and Programme Dates
African filmmakers with active feature length or episodic projects in development are eligible to apply. The programme welcomes both fiction and documentary projects, requiring at least one of the three key creatives to be from Africa or the African Diaspora. Applications, due by January 20, 2024, can be submitted through the Durban FilmMart Institute website.
The programme includes a one-on-one mentorship programme from May to July 2024 (online) and a Pitch and Finance Forum scheduled for July 18 to 22, 2024, in person in Durban.
DFM: A Global Industry Platform
Known for attracting over 1,000 delegates from around the world, the DFM has become a pivotal platform for industry professionals. Aside from the Pitch and Finance Forum, the event offers a robust industry programme and networking events, facilitating connections between filmmakers and representatives from the global film industry.
For those eager to be part of this cinematic celebration, applications are now open. Visit the Durban FilmMart Institute website to submit your project and be part of Africa’s thriving film community.
The Durban FilmMart Institute stands as the business hub of the African film industry, providing essential programmes and services to promote, support, and facilitate investment in African cinema. With year-round developmental initiatives and an annual market (Durban FilmMart), the institute continues to play a pivotal role in advancing the African film landscape.
