Nearly 300 delegates from around Africa and the rest of the world attended the 2nd Durban FilmMart, the continent’s largest co-production market, which drew to a close on 25 July.
The delegate programme, presented by local and international specialists, took the form of master-classes, workshops and forums and covered industry-related issues, such as film financing and funding, new media and distribution strategies, digital and online developments.
Says DFM CEO Toni Monty: “The DFM promises to be a further catalyst for growth in the region by becoming one of the key events of the South African and African film industry and a focal point to interface with global parties and stimulate interest and activity in the city.
“In addition, it has given African filmmakers the opportunity to pitch film projects and network with financiers, funding organisations, sales agents and internationally-reputed directors and producers and network in order to form alliances for future collaborations. We hope that as a result of these partnerships DFM will become a “feeder’ of African product to other international festivals and markets. DFM hopes that the number of fundable African projects will ultimately find their way to the big screen.’
“The overwhelming success of DFM this year and its close relationship with the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF) contributes enormously to the business component of the festival. Running a film festival and co-production market in tandem is essential to the longevity of a market of this nature for the long-term,’ comments DIFF director Peter Rorvik.
Monty says: “Without the support, in cash and in kind and co-operation of local role players, such as the eThekwini Municipality, CineMart and the Hubert Bals Fund of the International Film Festival Rotterdam, Microsoft, TIKZN, IDFA, The Cape Film Commission and The National Film & Video Foundation (NFVF), we could never dream of enjoying such success so quickly for the Durban FilmMart and we are most grateful, as it gives impetus to the growth of the DFM for the years ahead.’
Monty notes that there was a distinct shift in the market at this year’s event. “In 2010 delegates weren’t sure what to expect from DFM and were pleasantly surprised by the standard of the market. In contrast this year filmmakers and producers came well prepared – with strategies and plans and very definite ideas as to who they wanted to meet and what they wanted to get out of the four-day event.
“The networking was intense and the relationships which were forged are sure to yield wonderful results in the months ahead. This is a real accolade for The Durban Film Office (DFO), as it shows that our own industry-players are taking the market seriously, Monty adds.’
Rorvik believes that the signs of the growing confidence in the DFM can be seen all round. “The response from international guests has been phenomenal and very encouraging. We took the comments and feedback from last year and we delivered an even better market in 2011. Even the increase in the number of awards that were made possible by sponsors and funders, points to this growing commitment and support for the DFM.’
