All the winners from Durban International Film Festival and ECR goes on Tour

All The Winners From The Durban International Film Festival 2014

The full list of awards is as follows:
BEST FEATURE FILM: Timbuktu by Abderrahmane Sissako

BEST FIRST FEATURE FILM: Salvation Army by Abdellah Taia

BEST DIRECTION: Noaz Deshe for White Shadow

BEST SCREENPLAY: Love is Strange written by Ira Sachs and Mauricio Zacharias

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY: Sofian el Fani - Timbuktu

BEST ACTOR: Ibrahim Ahmed - Timbuktu & Tony Kgoroge - Cold Harbour

BEST ACTRESS: Chi Mhende - Love the One You Love

DURBAN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL AWARD FOR ARTISTIC BRAVERY: Petter Brunner - My Blind Heart

BEST SA DOCUMENTARY: Miners Shot Down by Rehad Desai

Special Mention: Nelson Mandela: The Myth and Me by Khalo Matabane

BEST DIRECTION IN A SOUTH AFRICAN DOCUMENTARY: I, Afrikaner by Annalet Steenkamp

Special Mention: Fatherland by Tarryn Crossman

BEST DOCUMENTARY: A World Not Ours by Mahdi Fleifel

BEST SHORT FILM: Out of Place by Ozan Mermer

BEST SOUTH AFRICAN SHORT FILM: Keys, Money, Phone by Roger Young

www.durbanfilmfest.co.za 

The East Coast Radio Breakfast Tour Continues

PMB

Darren and the Kearsney boys.

Richards Bay

Comedy Evening with Darren Maule at the Waterfront 

Next Stops

28 July - Monday - Eshowe

29 July - Tuesday - Florida Road

Article by +Fred Felton 

Highlights from Workshops at The Durban International Film Festival 2014

Notes From Filmmakers Workshops At DIFF 2014

One of the many workshops at DIFF 2014

They had many workshops at the Festival and at Durban Film Mart (DFM) these were some of the highlights:

DFM Masterclass

• 'We are the stories we tell.' 
• 'What makes stories compelling?'
• 'Good stories deal with consequences.' 
• 'A hollywood film made in another country will be of lesser quality.' 
• 'The key element in a film is emotion.' 
• 'Emotion is closely related to conflict.' 
• 'A story begins when there is some elements of conflict.' 
• 'Something unusual must happen.' 
• 'Arthouse cinema does not mean boring.' 
• 'As a writer you can play around with options.' 
• 'You can get more mileage out of suspense as opposed to surprise.' 
• 'How much info are you going to give the audience?' 
• 'Find a sales agent before you go to a film festival, then when you get to the film festival you have a strategy. 

Co-Production - Germany

• If you have a German crew member you have a better chance to get German Co-Production Funding!
• Co-Production is a marriage.
• At a film festival you should network and build relationships and contacts.

Feedback from Provinces - Useful Links

• KZN Film Commission - http://www.kwazulunatalfilm.co.za
• Gauteng Film Commission - http://www.gautengfilm.org.za/
• WESGRO - http://wesgro.co.za/

Notes on Submitting Applications for Funding

• With how much care do you submit your proposal?
• The project description and the treatment are very important when you apply for funding.
• Try send in a trailer if you can.
• If people read your script can they imagine a film or see it as a film?

Useful places to look for funding for your movie or documentary

• IDC - http://www.idc.co.za/our-strategic-business-units/media-and-motion-pictures
• NFVF - http://nfvf.co.za/home/
• IDFA - www.idfa.nl/industry 
• World Cinema Fund - www.berlinale.de 
• Hubert Bals Fund - filmfestivalrotterdam.com/hubertbalsfund

Article and Image by +Fred Felton 

Videovision Entertainment to sponsor distribution prize at Durban FilmMart

Videovision Entertainment returns to the 2014 DFM

In this day and age South Africa is becoming a talented and well esteemed place for up and coming production companies, it is now South Africa’s time to shine.

Videovision Entertainment, South Africa’s premier film and Distribution Company is set to attend the Durban FilmMart, on the 18 – 21 July 2014 at the Elangeni Tsogo Sun Hotel in Durban, to present their esteemed R75 000 distribution prize to the Best South African Film Project.

Videovision Entertainment, headed by well-known producer Anant Singh, is a Durban based company which is celebrating 25 successful years in the film industry. Specializing in a variety of operations, Videovision Entertainment is renowned for their work in South Africa as a leading film and television production distributing to media, live entertainment and film studios.

With each passing year that flies by, the ties strengthen between Videovision Entertainment and DFM; Africa’s leading co-production and finance markets for filmmakers in Africa. This year not only marks the 5^th edition of the DFM, but it also commemorates this loyal four year partnership; “Our association with DFM aligns itself to our company’s vision of providing a platform for the South African film industry both locally and abroad,” says Videovision Entertainment’s Head of Communication and Media Nilesh Singh.

Attending the 2014 Durban FilmMart, is CEO Anant Singh, Director of distribution and acquisition Sanjeev Singh, Financial Manager Robert Naidoo, Head of Communications and Media Nilesh Singh and Editor Sigeshan Reddy.

Each year, Videovision Entertainment sponsor’s a prize known as the “Five Fingers for Marseilles” produced by Sean Drummond and Michael Matthews, who were last year’s recipients of the Videovision Entertainment distribution prize. This award will assist them in ensuring release and distribution throughout South Africa once the ‘Five Fingers’ film is completed early next year. Producer Michael Matthews will use the Videovision Entertainment prize money to develop top notch marketing material, including behind the scenes, featurettes, artwork and online social marketing.

What makes this year’s DFM special, Videovision Entertainment intends to sponsor the same opportunity to a film project with R75 000 worth of distribution assistance. “We are delighted to continue our sponsorship of the Best South African Film Project. The objective of our sponsorship is to help nurture upcoming filmmakers and support them in having their films distributed in South Africa,” says Nilesh Singh.

“Partnerships are crucial to achieving DFM’s goals and objectives. The Videovision award presents these filmmakers with an incredible opportunity to break into the market place with the backing and support of one of South Africa’s longest running distribution companies. We are truly appreciative of Videovision’s consistent and generous support in promoting African cinema,” says Durban Film Office’s Toni Monty.

For more information on the DFM go to www.durbanfilmmart.co.za, to register for DFM visit the delegate registration desk at the Elangeni Tsogo Sun Hotel  from today until Monday 21 July at 08h00 to 16h00.

Article by +Lauren Immelman  

Free workshops for writers, producers and directors at Durban International Film Festival

Free Workshops For Writers, Producers and Directors At Durban International Film Festival

There are loads of free workshops for cast and crew and also free movies for you to see at The Elangeni Hotel, The Hub of the Durban International Film Festival 2014.

Here are some of the weekend highlights:

Saturday 19 July 2014

• African Initiatives - Suite 5 - 9am - Update from various organisations on film initiatives set to contribute to growth and development of African film.
• Tele-Dialogue - Suite 3 - 9am - An initiative created to outline and develop the television industry in KZN and Africa.
• The Films That Made Me - Suite 2 - 9h30 - Rear Window
• NFVF Engagement with the industry - Suite 5 - 10am - Hear about developments from the National Film and Video Foundation.
• The changing landscape of distribution in Africa - Suite 5 - 2pm - Opportunities for distribution in Africa.
• Writer's Tools: From Concept to Pitch - Suite 3 - 2pm - Join Janet van Eeden for an entry-level workshop looking at formats and conventions as well as pitching scripts. 
• Co-Production Lessons - Suite 5 - 3pm - Case studies from African producers in relation to co-production in and out of Africa.
• African Initiatives - Suite 5 - 4pm - Various organisations show film initiatives set to contribute to growth and development of African film.

Sunday 20 July

• Co-production Forum with Italy - Suite 5 - 2pm
• NFVF In Conversation - Suite 5 - 10am - Opportunities for locations and service industry.
• Updates from Provinces - Suite 5 - 2pm - Panel discussion from provincial state agencies involved in the development of film in SA.
• NFVF New Programmes - Suite 3 - 2pm - Upcoming programmes aimed at SA Filmmakers.
• Window to the World with Global Markets and Festivals - Suite 5 - 4pm - Opportunities for showcasing films at other film festivals.
• SAGE Industry Discussion - Suite 3 - 4pm - Discussion between SA editors around post production.

Related articles

• Durban Festival: South African Films on the Rise
• The 35th Durban International Film Festival
• Durban festival reels in industry's global players - Celebrities Today!

Opportunity for people in agriculture-related business in South Africa

Opportunity for people in agriculture-related business in South Africa

Have you started your own agriculture-related business, but are still looking for ways to improve and expand your knowledge? We’re seeking aspiring agribusiness entrepreneurs from South Africa for a new exchange opportunity!

Ideal applicants for this program are emerging entrepreneurs in agriculture and related fields.

Applicants should be between 25 to 40 years of age and have no previous travel to the U.S.; women and marginalized groups are encouraged to apply.

Applications will be accepted until July 30, 2014, and successful applicants will be invited to travel to the U.S. for a five-week experience in early October through early November.

This two-way educational exchange program, organized by the US Government and Oklahoma State University, will create professional relationships and learning experiences for selected African entrepreneurs.

During the Entrepreneurial Fellows’ stay in Oklahoma, they will participate in an orientation to learn about U.S. history and culture, technology and social media, business development, and customer service.

At the beginning of their second week, each Fellow will be paired for a three-week job-shadow experience with successful businesses, organizations, not-for-profits, government agencies and educational centers around Oklahoma.

Application can be completed online at - http://goo.gl/oniwzX

For more information about the project, please visit - http://goo.gl/5koomQ

Things to do in Jozi for Mandela Day

THINGS TO DO FOR NELSON MANDELA DAY

Source: www.expymultimedia.com

“Make a positive difference in someone’s life. Be a change maker, join the Community’’ –Nelson Mandela

He became Nelson Mandela and shook the world. A passionate man who had    sacrificed his life for a country that needed him. His sacrifice not only served his own nation but served the world and made a difference. This goes back to following his footsteps, by getting involved on Nelson Mandela Day; this means an opportunity to do something good through acts of kindness that restores dignity to others.

Nelson Mandela Day is celebrated internationally as a symbol of citizenry and community service. Johannesburg individuals, companies and organisations are planning on a variety of activities for Nelson Mandela Day on the 18^th of July and throughout the month in honour of the man himself. The Stop Hunger Now Southern Africa will have the opportunity to host 540 Fluor South African employees on Nelson Mandela Day “meals in memory’’ meal packaging event at Sandton Convention Centre on the 18^th of July.

Nelson Mandela Foundation is hosting an event on the 17^th of July. UN My World in support of Nelson Mandela. It is a youth participation programme meant to get the world youth to contribute in how they want to shape the future. This UN lead campaign will come to South Africa this July and also to Celebrate Nelson Mandela Day and Mandela’s belief of inclusive contribution.

On the 18^th of July Nelson Mandela Day Freedom Ride is taking place on Nelson Mandela Bridge, from Johannesburg to Soweto at Vilakazi Street where Nelson Mandela once lived, with donation of bicycles to children. Mandela Day is not only about doing good but it is about service therefore take action, inspire change, and make everyday a Nelson Mandela Day.

Article by +Molly Dimpho 

Ladies Are In For A Treat At Ster-Kinekor and Events Around South Africa

Ster-Kinekor has another Girlfriends' Getaway lined up for the ladies.

Wed 16 July at 7pm.
Booking Essential Call 082-16789

Castle Milk Stout Taste Experience at Taste of Durban

When: 25-27 July 2014

Where: Suncoast Casino, Durban

Tickets: From R100 at https://www.itickets.com/ or at the door

Visit the Castle Milk Stout stand at the Taste of Durban where a brand ambassador will guide you through a tasting experience of the rich, full-flavoured taste of Castle Milk Stout. There will also be cocktails –chocolate and hazelnut stout and an espresso stout - made with Castle Milk Stout, available for tasting. To gain entry to the Castle Milk Stout Taste Experience, festival goers must first purchase a Castle Milk Stout.

Theatre

The Baxter Theatre Centre and Mopo Productions, in association with the National Arts Festival, Grahamstown present

FISHERS OF HOPE

Cast: Mncedisi Shabangu, Shaun Oelf, Phillip Dikotla, Lesedi Job, Phillip Tipo Tindisa
Written and directed by Lara Foot
Assistant director: Mncedisi Shabangu
Design: Patrick Curtis
Choreographer: Grant van Ster
Lighting: Benever Arendse
Researchers: Nina Swart, Miyere Miyandazi, Mncedisi Shabangu

From the writer/director of the acclaimed productions Tshepang, Karoo Moose and Solomon and Marion comes a brand-new work, Fishers of Hope, by the multi-award-winning Lara Foot, who teams up with researchers Nina Swart and Masai warrior Miyere Miyandazi.

Through magical realism and a score richly textured with authentic Kenyan music, the story is brought to life by a dynamic cast led by Mncedisi Shabangu, who played the role of the storyteller in Foot’s Tshepang.

Special offer of R50.00 per ticket  (To qualify for this special discount, please contact Sharon Ward on 021 680 3962, e-mail sharon.ward@uct.ac.za.)

DATES:-
10 Jul - 2 Aug (Starts: 7:30 pm)

Additional Performances:
17 Jul - 11:00 am (Fully Booked)
19 Jul - 2:00 pm
23 Jul - 11:00 am
31 Jul - 11:00 am

PRICES:-
Previews & Matinees R110
Monday - Thursday R120
Friday - Saturday R140

Students, senior citizens & block bookings 10+ R100

UCT Staff Less 15%
UCT Students at Baxter Box Office R25

For discounted corporate, schools or block-bookings, charities or fundraisers, contact Sharon on 021 680 3962, emailsharon.ward@uct.ac.za.

2014 SEAexpo (Showbiz, Entertainment and Arts expo)

Inspiring NEW opportunities...for sustainable GROWTH
Sci-Bono Discovery Centre
9th & 10th September 2014

The 2014 SEAexpo (Showbiz, Entertainment and Arts Expo), a part of the Johannesburg Arts Alive International Festival, is Africa’s exhibition and conference show that connects inter-related creative industries under one roof for sustainable growth. The show primarily brings together a cross section of industry practitioners and opinion makers from TV, film, music, fashion, media, visual arts and crafts, theatre, etc. to network, showcase and share the latest game changing business Developments.

Read more: http://www.seaexpoafrica.com/

Showbiz Entertainment Arts Expo - Members Connect and WIN!
Is your organisation looking for great marketing opportunities? The 2014 SEAexpo (Showbiz Entertainment and Arts Expo) presents to you a fantastic opportunity to WIN an exhibition stand. This is a unique opportunity to connect with industry peers and captains of industries and this is how you can enter:

It’s simple - list your organisation on the SEArch App for FREE before 01 August 2014 and you could be exhibiting at the SEAexpo (Sci – Bono, Newtown) on 09th & 10th September 2014.

Click here for competition rules.

Who should exhibit at the 2014 SEAexpo? Check it out.

It’s a WIN WIN situation: List your organisation on the SEArch App for FREE and stand a chance to be amongst the exhibitors at the SEAexpo.

For more on the expo visit our website or please contact our offices.

This Edition by +Fred Felton