The 2023 Joburg Film Festival (JFF) themed, “Where Storytellers Come Together” was a star studded gathering of the continent’s elite talent along with many Hollywood stars. This year’s celebration of African cinema took place 31 January until 5 February 2023 and featured screening of over 60 films in theaters across Soweto, Maboneng, Sandton and Rosebank.
Xale, a film directed by the legendary Moussa Sene Absa made its world premiere as the festival’s opening selection and wowed the audience with strikingly beautiful cinematography. The coming-of-age story set in Dakar follows a heartbreaking turn of events experienced by fraternal twins (Awa and Adama) leading up to the teenage boy’s attempt to leave Senegal for Europe by boat. Voyages like these are famous for ending either in death or hardship ending success for those that make it across the Atlantic Ocean to countries like Italy. The filled theater rang with excitement as the audience gave Absa and cast member Rokhaya Niang a roaring standing ovation.
Other standout film selections included the classic Touki Bouki, Gravité, Surviving Gaza, Music Is My Life, and Moon Over Aburi (starring Anniwaa Buachie, Brian Angels & Cynthia Dankwa).
A brief intermission of libation and networking in the exquisitely decorated outdoor venue was brought to a hush by South African powerhouse Thandiswa Mazwai who took the main stage by storm to deliver an electrifying performance.
JFF’s industry programme and JBX Content Market offered a unique spin on the festival going experience for filmmakers and film lovers. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in a series of Masterclasses and Panel Discussions which featured well-known industry experts, network representatives and content buyers.
