Cinema Without Walls,
Storytelling Without Limits
A story starts with a single voice. A single idea that refuses to be ignored. What happens when that idea moves? When it crosses borders? When it sparks a conversation that changes everything?
At DFM 2025, we design a space for meaningful dialogue, we break down the barriers that have historically fragmented our worlds, allowing for more organic and equitable collaborations. We create bridges, not borders.
Join us in celebrating the industry’s pioneers and its new voices – those who are forging a new vision, those who dare to dream beyond limits.
DFM 2025 Takes Place from 18 – 21 July 2025
At The Southern Sun Elangeni and Maharani Hotels, Durban
The 16th Durban FilmMart recognises that our strength lies in our ability to connect and grow together, rather than in isolation – supporting each other’s creative visions, creating new pathways for distribution and pioneering new audio-visual frontiers.
Expect co-curated sessions with sponsors and professional industry groups, networking spaces, the Pitch and Finance Forum for official projects, and a hub for industry connections.
It’s More Than an Event.
2024 Results
Days
Delegates
Partners
Speakers & Panellists
Durban FilmMart 2025
Africa’s Premier Co-Production and Film Finance Market
The Full DFM 2025 Experience:
What to expect
Pitch and Finance Forum
Industry Programme
Talents Durban
DFMI Exhibitions
Awards
Programme Streams
DFM Conversations
Masterclasses
Durban Does Docs
Animation@DFM
Co-Production Focus
Talking Cents
SA In Focus
Creating Pathways for Shared Resources, Knowledge Exchange and Creative Partnerships
A truly Pan-African meeting place for the continent and diaspora… a space that connects film professionals of the Global South.
At this year’s DFM we position cinema as a bridge to genuine exchange and collaboration that enriches our storytelling capabilities.
DFM Project dossier
We welcome you to find out more about the official projects participating in the 2025 Pitch and Finance Forum. We hope that you can connect with them to help further their project.
Early Bird Special
Cost: R 1600.00 (ZAR)
Closing Date: 31 May
DFM Normal Pass
Cost: R 2000.00 (ZAR)
Available: 01 June
DFM Day Pass
Cost: R 500.00 (ZAR)
Day Pass only available
for the day of purchase
The 46th Durban International Film Festival will take place from 17 – 27 July
This year, DIFF will showcase almost 100 films, all premieres in this region. Screenings will take place at Nu Metro Pavilion, Ster Kinekor Gateway and Suncoast CineCentre. DIFF is your gateway to global cinematic gems that enrich audiences.
Need Help with Accommodation or Airport Transfers for DFM 2025?
Accommodation
Please note that accommodation in the market hotel is now fully booked.
Airport Transfers
We can also guide you in arranging reliable airport transfers to and from your accommodation.
Latest News
The Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) opens the call for participants for the next edition of the Future Mentors Programme to be held in East Africa
In a first for the East African film ecosystem, with the support of the Fund for Authors and Producers from Africa (FAPA) and partnership with
AWOTELE IS BACK!
AWOTELE IS BACK! Launched in 2015, AWOTELE was a self-funded print magazine published by Sudu Connexion during 23 editions until 2023, 48 full-color pages, in French and
REEL BALANCE: Pan-African Film Festival Gender Parity Project- Launched at the 17th Durban FilmMart
In a first for the African film ecosystem, seven of the most influential women-focused film advocacy organisations have united for one cause; to ensure gender
TALENT PRESS
The Color of Exile – A review by Michelle Abuti
Mother and son cling on dearly to their bond as they face the ultimate journey in search of a better life. In a remote Senegalese
Who is still Alive? – Une critique par Neya Harouna
Neuf réfugiés palestiniens qui ont réussi à fuir la bande de Gaza avant le blocage de la frontière à Rafah en mai 2024 témoignent devant
THEMBA – Une critique par Neya Harouna
Comment gérer un deuil qui survient dans un couple ?. La gestion est parfois compliquée car chaque conjoint le vit différemment qu’il s’agisse de l’homme ou