The moment cinema lovers across the country have been anticipating is finally here. The 8th Joburg Film Festival (JFF) officially kicked off last night in Johannesburg, transforming the city once again into a hub for bold storytelling, industry conversations, and unforgettable cinema. Held at Theatre on the Square in Sandton, the opening night set the tone for a week-long celebration of African and global cinema.
The festival opened with a screening of Laundry, directed by Zamo Mkhwanazi, who was in attendance alongside film stars Ntobeko Sishi, Siyabonga Shibe, Bukamina Cebekhulu, and Zekhethelo Zondi. The film, which premiered last year at the Toronto International Film Festival, captivated the audience with its unique narrative and cinematic style. The opening night was hosted by actress and presenter Refilwe Modiselle, who brought her signature charm and energy to the evening.
This year’s festival theme, Feel the Frame, invites audiences to experience film as something sensory and collaborative – to recognise not just what appears on screen, but the many hands, instincts, and artistic decisions that shape every moment.
“To celebrate that collective work is to look beyond the surface of the image and recognise the choices behind it. One is held in close up, one is left outside the frame. What is revealed slowly? What is heard before the scene? At a time of instant consumption, this theme asks something important of us, to slow down, and truly feel what cinema can do. JFF lives in intersection. Local voice. Local conversation. Over the next week, you will see that identity reflected across the festival, in the breadth of our program of 138 films, in a risk and in the sheer range of the sectors. JFF is a festival of exchange of ideas, skills, opportunities, and relationships.” said Taryn Joffe, Festival Manager.
Nicola Auret, Executive Head of Programming, also shared insight on the festival’s industry impact:
“For MultiChoice, and CANAL+, supporting the Joburg Film Festival is about creating a space where our industry can meet in person, exchange ideas and build some meaningful connections. It’s also a launch pad for new voices, and through our partnership, we affirm our commitment, in shaping the future of African storytelling. We are strengthening the creative ecosystem, and ensuring that our continent’s perspective is captured, celebrated, and shared. MultiChoice and CANAL + have several titles screening at this year’s festival, including two new STUDIO CANAL films, and five CANAL PLUS AfriCo productions. We are especially proud of the MultiChoice Talent Factory offering on Thursday.”
Festival Curator Nhlanhla Ndaba encouraged audiences to embrace the immersive experience of the festival:
“This year will challenge you to become aware of this medium. Feel the rumble in the chest…Coming out of 770 submissions, spreading over 98 countries. We were on a mission to do the impossible. And I think we accomplished our mission. Now it’s your turn to immerse yourself with the 188 films selected for this edition.”
From 3–8 March 2026, the Joburg Film Festival will showcase a diverse array of films, workshops, and industry discussions, cementing its position as one of Africa’s premier cinematic events.
See images below from the red carpet and moments from opening night
About Joburg Film Festival
The Joburg Film Festival is a six-day annual event that showcases African films within a global cinema context. The festival presents over 60 expertly curated films from around the world, including South Africa, Africa, and the diaspora. Presented in partnership with MultiChoice, a Canal+ Company, JFF has established itself as an independent platform that not only celebrates African stories but also rewards excellence in film.
Here’s a link for the FILM SCHEDULE.
