Palestine at Durban FilmMart 2024

Palestinian cinema emerges as a record of the people’s dreams, hopes and struggles. It is evidence of the land we miss, an image of the people we lost, and an archive of a future to shape and inhabit. This is why the Palestine Film Institute (PFI) emphasizes the importance of supporting Palestinian films and narratives in international forums.

The PFI is glad to announce its participation at the 2024 Durban filmmart with several actions, including the presentation of 3 in progress feature films, and a film program curated in collaboration with several South African solidarity constellations in Durban.

The Palestine Film Institute will also have its own stand at the market, creating a space for the delegation members to meet International film industry professionals and rally for the support of their feature films. This is also a space of solidarity to empower the Palestinian filmmaking network, reaching new audiences, new screens, and finding new collaborations.

Full Event Program for Durban 2024

Palestine Feature Showcase

Saturday July 20th, 10:45-11:45 | Elangeni Hotel - Suites 1+2

In collaboration with Durban Filmmart, the PFI presents three works-in-progress as part of the Palestine Showcase. This opportunity allows filmmakers and producers to showcase their feature-length documentary projects to decision-makers, festival programmers, co-producers and potential collaborators, providing a platform for directors and producers to engage with the global film community, attend industry events and in the long term get their films made, and seen. These projects have been selected by PFI, have received bespoke mentoring from PFI industry consultants and have been supported to access the festival through accreditation, accommodation and travel support.

Delegation Mentors:

Mohamed Saïd Ouma, Nadine Naous, Jihan El Tahri

Palestine Cinema Weekend

July 19 - 21, Durban

Paid in Full: Social Responsibility of the Film Industry

Sunday July 21, 17:00-18:00 | Elangeni Hotel - Suites 3+4

While the world is gripped by challenging times, and institutions remain silent or complicit, what roles do filmmakers and these institutions play? In this compelling panel discussion, industry experts and filmmakers delve into the pivotal role of cinema, film festivals, and institutions in addressing social responsibility amidst conflict and upheaval. From shedding light on marginalised voices to fostering empathy, the discourse explores how films become powerful tools for societal reflection and change. Panelists will dissect the ethical responsibilities of filmmakers and festivals in portraying complex narratives, navigating censorship, and amplifying diverse perspectives. Join us as we unravel the dynamic interplay between art and activism, examining how the film industry can shape narratives, challenge norms, and inspire collective action during turbulent times. With Jihan El-Tahri, Julie Nederkoorn, Mohamed Jably and Miki Redelinghuys.

PFI would like to thank everyone who has supported the amplification of the voices and images of the Palestinian people and their filmmakers since the institute’s beginnings in 2018. A special thank you goes to our friends who pledged their financial support and to our institutional partners IMS - International Media Support, Amnesty International, and IDA- International Documentary Association. A special thanks goes to our consultants who supported the development of the film projects, and finally to the filmmakers who continue to believe in the power of storytelling and trust the Institute to bring their films and projects to international platforms.

In Solidarity.