Acclaimed international film curator Keith Shiri has been appointed as the lead curator for Film Africa 2024, the Royal African Society announced Friday, according to an APO Group statement. The appointment marks a significant milestone for the festival, which is set to take place from October 25 to November 3, 2024, in London.
Shiri, known for his extensive experience in international curation and film festivals, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for African cinema to the role. As the founder and director of Africa at the Pictures, a London-based festival of African cinema, Shiri has been a pivotal figure in championing African filmmaking across the UK, Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean.
“I am excited to join Film Africa as a curator,” Shiri stated. “African artistry – especially in cinema – is experiencing a period of unparalleled invention and experimentation, and Film Africa provides the ideal forum to share these cultural treasures with diverse audiences.”
Film Africa, now in its 11th edition, continues its mission of highlighting African and African diaspora filmmaking. The festival is currently open for submissions from African and African diasporic filmmakers, with two prestigious awards up for grabs: The Baobab Award for best short film and the Film Africa Audience Award for best feature-length entry, each carrying a £1000 cash prize.
The 2024 festival promises to showcase a diverse range of films and voices, reflecting the complexity and nuances of African and diasporic perspectives. With Shiri at the helm, Film Africa is poised to elevate its status as London’s premier celebration of African cinema.
Filmmakers interested in submitting their work can find more information on the Film Africa website. The festival accepts films of all lengths and genres, including fiction, documentary, shorts and experimental works produced in 2020 or later.
For more information about Film Africa, visit www.FilmAfrica.org
