Talents Durban, in partnership with Berlinale Talents and the Goethe-Institut, has opened applications for the 2026 edition of Talent Press, a competitive programme for film critics from across the African continent.
Now in its 19th year, the programme has undergone a significant structural overhaul. This cycle introduces a Peer-to-Peer (P2P) model in which three established alumni will serve as Section Editors alongside three emerging writers, who will take on Staff Writer roles. Together, the six-person cohort will operate a live editorial newsroom environment simulating a professional festival press desk.
The 10-week hybrid programme, comprising eight weeks online followed by two weeks in-person at the Durban FilmMart, is structured around four core pillars: collaborative newsroom practice, one-on-one mentorship, industry sustainability and digital-first storytelling. The latter encompasses formats such as “Critic vs. Critic” podcasts, video essays and social media coverage, signalling a deliberate shift away from traditional long-form criticism.
Each participant will receive full press accreditation for the Durban FilmMart and partner festivals, with their published work distributed across FIPRESCI, Berlinale Talents and major African media platforms.
Applications are open to citizens of an African country, residing on the continent, who are at least 18 years of age by July 1. Candidates must hold a minimum of two years’ experience as a film critic, reviewer or journalist. Alumni of Talent Press (from either the Durban or Berlinale editions) are eligible, provided they did not participate in the 2025 Talents Durban programme.
Applicants are required to submit a PDF of up to six pages containing three published articles from the past two years, including dates of publication, the media outlet, and circulation figures. Works not in English or French must be accompanied by a self-translated version. Vloggers and podcasters may instead submit a platform overview with links to relevant content.
Applications are accepted on an individual basis only; team submissions will not be considered.
Applications close March 27 with results announced May 14, while online mentorship is from May 18 – July 17.
Live Summit at Durban FilmMart takes place from July 24–27.
Further details and the application form are available via the Talents Durban website, https://durbanfilmmart.co.za/talents-press-application-information/
