London Recruits to kick off the highly anticipated Joburg Film Festival this month
The Joburg Film Festival proudly announces ‘London Recruits’ as the opening film for its 2024 edition, which takes place from 27 Feb to 3 March in Johannesburg (SA), bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinema enthusiasts for a celebration of storytelling through the art of film.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Gordan Main and produced by Jacinta De Nobrega and Robyn Slovo, London Recruits promises to set the stage for an electrifying cinematic experience at one of Africa’s most prestigious film events.
‘London Recruits’ takes audiences on a gripping journey through the tumultuous 1960s, where a group of young activists embarks on covert missions to combat apartheid in South Africa. Based on true events, the film illuminates a lesser-known chapter of history, blending elements of espionage, courage, and sacrifice. The film features a talented ensemble cast, including emerging talents and seasoned actors, delivering powerful performances that breathe life into the historical narrative. With its blend of suspenseful storytelling, historical significance, and thought-provoking themes, the film promises to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression.
In addition to this announcement, the Joburg Film Festival is proud to introduce the esteemed panel of jurors who will be responsible for selecting the winning films for this year’s awards. The diverse panel comprises industry professionals who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.
The five jurors for this year’s festival are as follows:
Tosh Gitpoga is a renowned Kenyan born, Paris based producer and director with a keen eye for storytelling and a passion for promoting African cinema on the global stage
Nthati Moshesh is a multiple award winning actress recognized for her long standing contributions to the advancement of storytelling not just South Africa but across the film world at large
Dr Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha is a multiple award-winning stage and screen actor known for roles in several critically acclaimed films, including Cry The Beloved Country; Lord of War; Mandela and de Klerk and the 2005 Academy Award-winning film Tsotsi.
Pape Boye, through his various business ventures, he has helped finance and co-produce contents in Africa and Middle East for over 2 decades
Andrea Voges is a multi talented film professional including roles as a film festival manager, head of programming and project director. With a career spanning almost two decades, she has worked to support and promote the work of artists across the globe through various festivals and projects.
These 5 jurors will have the difficult task of reviewing and judging the 15 selected features in competition to select the winners. These include:
Best African / Diaspora Film
- Hajjan (Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan)
- Mami Tata (Nigeria)
- Under the Hanging Tree (Namibia)
- Yellow Bus (UAE)
Best Film
- Death of a Whistleblower (SA)
- Snake (SA)
- Thus Spoke Zolani (SA)
- All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt (USA)
- Mandoob (Saudi Arabia)
- Tiger Stripes (Malaysia)
- Whisper of Fire and Water (India)
Best Documentary
- Bye Bye Tiberias (Belgium and Palestine)
- London Recruits (SA, UK)
- Lifes Through this Lens: Sam Nzima (SA)
- Who I am not (USA and Romania)
Audience Awards
- All screened films
The festival is breaking new ground this year by introducing an innovative feature that empowers its audience like never before. For the very first time, the audience will have the opportunity to directly influence an awards category by participating in an in-cinema ballot vote to select their favorite film for the Audience Award. This initiative not only enhances the interactive experience for moviegoers but also democratises the festival, allowing the diverse audience to have a say in celebrating the cinematic arts. By giving voice to the viewers, the Joburg Film Festival underscores its commitment to inclusivity and engagement, promising an exciting and immersive event for film enthusiasts of all backgrounds.
The sixth Joburg Film Festival is presented by MultiChoice Group in association with Absa and supported by Brand South Africa, Movie Room, NFVF and South African Tourism.
