19th Oct, 2017
The Forum explored ways in which Filmmakers from both Countries can work together formally or informally to develop, fund and distribute films to a global audience.
The 1st South African/ UK Film Finance & Co-Production Forum took place at the South African High Commission in London, hosted by the KZN Film Commission and supported by UK Distributors, Talking Drum Entertainment.
The event opened with a welcome address by His Excellency Mr. Obed Mlaba, the South African Acting High Commissioner, followed by a presentation by Carol Coetzee, CEO KZN Film Commission, who gave an overview of the South African Film Industry, introduced the KZN Film Commission and gave insight to the funding opportunities available in South Africa while speaking about Kwa Zulu Natal as a film destination.
Producer’s Bianca Isaacs and Alby James spoke about their experiences of working in the South African film industry and renowned film festival programmer Keith Shiri engaged the audience with a talk on ‘The Evolution of films in South Africa’.
The presentations were followed by a Q&A and Networking session, as well as a dinner and the screening of ‘Five Fingers for Marseilles’ a South African Official Selection at the London Film Festival.
Charles Thompson CEO Screen Nation Media said “Lots of good information, fun networking, all followed by a great film screening. More like this please”.
Dapo Oshiyemi of Talking Drum Entertainment said “I am delighted that filmmakers and funding bodies from South Africa and the UK have responded with such enthusiasm, and are looking at ways to build stronger relationships to develop, fund and distribute films. I can’t wait for the next Forum in 2018 when we will have Nigeria and other African Countries joining the conservation”.
Below are pictures of the successfully held event:
