The vibrant pulse of African storytelling will reverberate through the K-Cap Ekhaya Multi Arts Centre as the 21st edition of the Kwamashu African Film Festival (Kaff) takes place.
The five-day festival starts on Tuesday, December 10 to 15 and promises to bring together filmmakers, industry experts, and film lovers to reflect on the richness and diversity of African cinema through a diverse range of films, workshops, masterclasses, seminars and panel discussions.
Audiences can look forward to the captivating opening night feature film, “Love Lottery”, directed by Mlungisi Mhlanga, on December 10.
“Lottery Love” centres around a young, feisty woman who unwittingly helps her ex-boyfriend with the lottery, embarking on a daring journey to snatch the winning ticket from him and risking everything in a high-stakes game where desires collide and passions ignite.
The film stars former “Durban Gen” actress Nombulelo Mhlongo, Nelisa Mchunu and Thabo Malema.
The opening night will be hosted by actress and theatre practitioner Nqobile Masondo, with Amanda Madida as the red carpet host.
Edmund Mhlongo, Founder of Kaff, said: “As we turn 21, we are reminded of the symbolic key that opens doors as one moves from one phase to another in life.
“As we say life is a movie, this year marks a crucial milestone for an initiative that is committed to creating opportunities for those who need it the most to break into the film industry.
“We believe that African stories have the power to inspire, educate and entertain, and we look forward to celebrating these stories with our audience.”
This year’s festival goes beyond mere screenings, offering a well-rounded selection of workshops and masterclasses.
These sessions will dive into various filmmaking topics, including scriptwriting, directing, animation and make-up.
It creates a vital opportunity for emerging and independent filmmakers to learn from esteemed industry specialists, such as representatives from the Durban Film Office, KZN Tourism and Film Authority and actor Lucky Simayile, among others.
Festival-goers can also look forward to the renowned “Hosting a TV Family” event, following last year’s successful gathering with the TV family from “Sibongile & The Dlaminis”.
The festival closes with a screening of “Amathambo” on December 15. The film delves into a family’s struggle for healing and acceptance.
Directed by Sabelo Ndlovu and Busani Mbili, “Amathambo” features a talented ensemble cast and is expected to resonate deeply with attendees.
For more information on the festival, including a full programme visit www.kcap.co.za.