Presented by the Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu Natal, the inaugural Isiphethu International Student Film Festival (IISFF) will be launched during the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF). The Festival is inviting student filmmakers to submit their projects for the 1st edition taking place from July 21st to 30th, 2022. The deadline for submissions is 28 February 2022. For eligibility, submission fees, and to submit, please visit the IISFF profile on FilmFreeway: www.filmfreeway.com/durbanfilmfest
Technology has no doubt changed the film industry in many ways and that has enhanced the ability to improve visual- and sound effects. It has also changed the livelihoods of workers in the industry and thereby forcing everyone to think outside the box when planning a film shoot and working on a film set. The festival intends to highlight and celebrate the work of student filmmakers who are producing human stories that offer fresh insights.
The theme for this year’s IISFF festival is migration. Migration serves to prove that instincts like hibernation, re-assessment and behavioural adaptations exist to preserve life.
“The inaugural Isiphethu International Student Film Festival intends to highlight the effects and cause of migration to human life, and all other species by celebrating bravery and stimulating debate through images and sound. The positive outcomes of our evolution breeds new ways to conduct business and also challenges people to learn and adopt new ways of living,” says project manager Sakhile Gumede.
As part of the new festival, IISFF is also introducing a number of new awards to encourage and incubate young talent in film, such as the Awards for Best Film and Best Director.
Background
The Isiphethu International Student Film Festival alongside a diverse workshop- and seminar programme are the pulse of the Isiphethu industry-focused programme at DIFF, aiming to educate and up-skill, instil confidence in young aspirant filmmakers and share information that is relevant to the film industry and empowers young people.
DIFF contributes to expanding filmmaker networks, attracts local and international media, creates public awareness of South African and African cinema, and promotes and celebrates African cinema that highlights the possibilities of local film production and stimulates the growth of the film industry. DIFF proactively encourages the development of the African film industry and provides a strategic exhibition platform for local products alongside international films within a professionally implemented and reputable cultural experience.
