Everyone’s favourite film fest is back
Yes, Durbanites it’s that time of the year again: time to invite a host of budding actors, avant-garde directors and perception challenging scriptwriters over to the streets of Durban as we host the 34th Durban International Film festival (DIFF). The festival will run from 18 – 28 July at 11 venues, screening 170 handpicked films.
DIFF is hosted by the Centre for Creative Arts and has drawn significant attention to Durban and its ability to hold world-class events. Audiences will be privy to an array of thought-provoking and soulful films from local, continental and international filmmakers. This year’s festival will give homage to African cinema with 12 premieres of South African films including the opening night showstopper, “Of Good Report”. This captivating tale takes you through the life of a troubled school teacher with an obsession for young girls, exploring how his obsession slowly unravels his career and sanity. Another film noir for Durban fans to look out for is “Durban Poison”, a film focussing on local Bonnie and Clyde – Charmaine Phillips and Piet Grundlingh. Based on a true story, this thriller takes you on the tragic journey of four local murders and the violent romance behind it.
But if you’re in the mood for something a bit more global, don’t worry. You’ll be treated to several contemporary European and American independent features as well as quite a few films drawing themes of sexuality. And what if you’re a bit hesitant to jump straight into nouveau cinema? Well, you’re in for a surprise cos you’re about to sit at the edge of your seat with a Zombie fest to make any horror fan’s day. Surfers will also be able to catch the regular banquet of surf and shark related cinema with some free screenings outdoors, transporting you directly into a brand new world of audio-visual stimulation.
The festival really does cater for everyone’s taste whilst providing you with some of the latest releases that will re-evaluate your movie-going experiences. So ease those winter blues with the hottest event about to hit Durban shores with tickets ranging from R25-R30 (R50 for 3D screenings) and complimentary tickets at special venues.
Screening venues:
Suncoast Cinecentre
Ster Kinekor Musgrave
Cinema Nouveau – Gateway
Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre
Ekhaya Multi-Arts Centre in KwaMashu
Blue Waters Hotel
The Bay of Plenty Lawns
Upstairs at Spiga Doro
The Luthuli Museum on the North Coast
Programme booklets will be available at all venues. For more info, visit www.durbanfilmfest.co.za or call 031 260 2506. If you’re a filmmaker, check out the Fourth Durban FilmMart (film finance and co-production market) by visiting www.durbanfilmmart.com