Cinema Nouveau and The Bioscope in Maboneng hosted viewings where filmmakers and those who appreciate the art of film could mix and interact.
Talking on the success of the festival, one of the founders Shareen Anderson said this year was one of the best when it came to the standard of the actors, filmmakers and films submitted for entry.
“In the past, many filmmakers would try and imitate what they saw in other films but I think now South African filmmakers are coming into their own and are, instead, creating the kind of films we have never seen before,” said Anderson.
“With this being the fourth year of the festival, we are still discovering what people enjoy, because at times we’ll be so sure that one film will do great and instead it doesn’t, and vice versa – getting to know what the audience will love is a process within itself.”
This year the festival opened with a debut film by young director, Jenna Bass, Love the one you Love. The film, which tells the parallel stories of everyday South Africans who begin to question the ideals they hold sacred, received raved reviews.
Lead actress, Chi Mhende said it was a must-see because it broke away from “all ideals that are mainstream”. She added, “The film breaks all stereotypes and it deals with love – love is universal and has no borders – and thus it will appeal to everyone.”
The Jozi Film Festival is an annual event that highlights the very best in filmmaking and explores a broad range of topics that affect communities and stir the hearts and minds of audiences.
