By REGINALD KANYANE
1 October 2024- The highly anticipated Rustenburg Film Festival (RFF) is back and set to take place at the Rustenburg Civic Centre and Ster-Kinekor Theatres Waterfall Mall in Rustenburg from 6 until 10 November 2024. The Rustenburg Film Festival acting Director, Bonginkosi Ncube said this year, film enthusiasts and industry professionals will gather for an unforgettable cinematic and collaborative experience that transcends borders, cultures, and narratives. Ncube further said with an impressive record-breaking, 1102 entries from 55 countries, RFF carefully selected 96 films from 22 countries for its 9th instalment.
“The Rustenburg Film Festival is more than just a venue for movie screenings. It’s a vibrant celebration of film’s power to bridge cultures and spark meaningful conversations. Prepare to be inspired by powerful documentaries that explore both deeply personal and universally relevant themes.
“Highlights include AmaPiano Pioneering DJs, which delves into the rise of a music phenomenon in South Africa, and Senegal, a Round Trip Dream from Spain, capturing the hopes and realities of migration,” he said.
Ncube added that local talent shines with must-see films like The Breastfeeding Warrior – Phila Portia Ndwandwe and Truth Be Told – Bheki Mlangeni – Pathways to Light from South Africa’s master documentary filmmaker, Enver Samuel (Indians Can’t Fly, Murder in Paris).
He said the feature film line-up is as diverse as it is compelling. Ncube said from the heart-warming tale of family and redemption in Boeta Is Coming Home (South Africa), to the gripping story of identity and survival in My Name is Misan (Nigeria), these films push the boundaries of narrative cinema.
“Each offers a unique voice and perspective. Creativity knows no bounds in the world of short films. South Africa’s Equilibrium, a tale of balance and chaos, and France’s Beyond the Door, a chilling exploration of the unknown, are just a few examples of the impactful shorts set to leave audiences breathless.
“Beyond the screenings, RFF 2024 offers an extensive program of industry events designed to inspire, educate, and connect attendees. From masterclasses in film production and directing to insightful sessions on the future of AI in filmmaking, the festival serves as a hub for creativity and innovation,” said Ncube.
He said he is excited about their debut Quick Starter series this year. Ncube said this is a special programme that runs parallel to the festival and is designed for new entrants.
“We are proud of our relevant partnerships with Final Draft, who will supply 50 licenses to all our Scriptwriting Masterclass attendees and Canon, who this year will bless our filmmakers with 2 amazing camcorders.
“On the more professional side of the fence, some highlights include an insightful “Building Creative Nations” panel, which explores the future of co-production treaties between South Africa and other African countries, along with discussions on the growing influence of Spanish cinematography,” said Ncube.
The Guardian 