The Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) announces the 16th edition of its annual flagship
event Durban FilmMart (DFM), themed “Bridges Not Borders: Stories that Unite“, set to
take place from 18 – 21 July 2025 in Durban, South Africa.
This year’s theme underscores the transformative potential cinema serves as a bridge,
opening genuine exchange and collaboration that enriches storytelling capabilities across
the industry.
In an industry still navigating fragmentation, DFM 2025 aims to create pathways for shared
resources, knowledge exchange, and creative partnerships. These bridges connect not only
different regions of the continent but also reaches out to the African diaspora and Global
South communities. Through meaningful dialogue, the event seeks to break down the
artificial barriers that have historically separated our worlds, allowing for more organic and
equitable collaborations.
The 16th DFM will feature a comprehensive programme designed to foster high-quality
collaborations and provide valuable insights into the filmmaking process. Key components
include fiction, episodic, documentary and animation projects in development showcased in
the Pitch and Finance Forum. The DFM Industry Programme will present keynote talks,
masterclasses, panel discussions, lab presentations and think tanks.
“Building on the success of the 2024 edition and the continued growth of the DFM’s previous
editions, DFM 2025 recognises that strength lies in connection rather than isolation. The
event will provide an equitable space for change in the Global South film industry, supporting
creative visions, creating new distribution pathways, and pioneering audiovisual frontiers.
The programme will reflect DFMI’s core values of inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility, with
sessions tailored to address key industry challenges and opportunities.” says Magdalene
Reddy, Director of the Durban FilmMart Institute.
Early bird registration opens in the first week of April 2025, offering delegates a discounted
rate for a limited time. Accreditation provides access to DFM events including the Pitch and
Finance Forum, industry sessions, networking opportunities, masterclasses and the industry
exhibition. Delegates will also gain access to the DFM online platform for virtual networking
and content sharing.
For more information and to register, please visit our website: https://durbanfilmmart.co.za/
The Durban FilmMart Institute receives principal funding from the Durban Film Office and the
eThekwini Municipality.
For further inquiries, contact: [email protected]
About the Durban FilmMart Institute:
Durban FilmMart Institute is the business hub of the African film industry in a world where
film professionals and content are globally competitive and celebrated. The mission of the
Durban FilmMart Institute is to provide appropriate and effective programmes and services
to promote, support and facilitate investment in the African film industry.
