With its headquarter in Mbombela, the Mpumalanga International Film Festival (MIFF) is strategically located, and easily accessible to filmmakers from all over the world.

Mbombela is the capital city of Mpumalanga and a getaway to the province renowned for its fauna and flora such as the Kruger National Park, Panorama Route, and vibrant townships. Mpumalanga offers prime locations for any shoot, from television commercials to movies. It also boasts perfect weather and climate conditions as well as solid infrastructure.

Since its inception in 2013, MIFF has provided a platform for filmmakers to showcase their craft in an enabling environment. To date, the festival has shown 139 films of which 89 were international.

The province, being home to the Big Five, Three Rondavels, Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window, and world-class infrastructure, including an international airport, is ideally geared and best situated to meet the needs of filmmakers.

In Mpumalanga, Mother Nature and man have combined to ensure filmmakers create perfect moments that last for years.

Mpumalanga International film festival is an annual event showcasing new independent films or recently produced films, high profile and undiscovered talent, established and upcoming filmmakers, student filmmakers, and films from around the world. Festivals normally have two or more screens or venues to showcase films. Accepted filmmakers’ hustle to get their film noticed in the hope of obtaining distribution or favorable media.

Awards & Prizes

We are offering co-production budget, Awards, Kruger National Park Trip for 2, all our program includes Access to the National Park.

Rules & Terms

MPUMALANGA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL CALL FOR SUBMISSION 2024

Opening for Submissions: October 16, 2023

Are you a passionate filmmaker or a storyteller with a deep appreciation for the breathtaking beauty of South Africa's wildlife and around the world? Do you believe in the power of stories to impact the communities within the Kruger National Park and across the world? Or perhaps you have a profound connection to the vibrant cultures of SiSwati and Nguni, and you're ready to share stories that define these unique societies? The Mpumalanga International Film Festival invites you to be part of our extraordinary 2024 celebration of storytelling and culture.

Theme 1: Imagining Storytelling - Wildlife Edition

Our WILDMarket event is dedicated to the legendary "Big Five" of South Africa. We're exclusively seeking script submissions that focus on wildlife filmmaking and narratives that touch the hearts of communities within the Kruger National Park. This is your opportunity to delve into the untamed wilderness of Africa and share the captivating stories of these majestic creatures.

Submission Category for Imagining Storytelling - Wildlife Edition:

Wildlife Pitch and Script

Theme 2: We Are the People

In our regular call for submission, "Local is Lekker," we continue to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of South Africa. For 2024, we're specifically seeking SiSwati and Nguni stories in development, stories that require funding support to explore and develop their local narratives in a Nguni Language. Join us in sharing the vibrant stories that define these unique cultures under the theme "We Are the People."

Submission Category for Local is Lekker (Nguni Stories in Development):

SiSwati and Nguni Language Story in Development (Funding Support Required)

Submission Deadlines:

Earlybird Deadline: February 29, 2024 - Entry Fee: $25
Regular Deadline: March 31, 2024 - Entry Fee: $25
Late Deadline: April 20, 2024 - Entry Fee: $50
Extended Deadline: May 11, 2024 - Entry Fee: $65
Notification Date: May 31, 2024
Event Date: August 2 - 10, 2024

Submission Rules:

Films submitted to previous festivals can only be resubmitted if the submission is for a remake. Eligible films must have been made between June 2022 to 2024.
All entries should align with the festival's themes and categories.
We encourage films that embody the spirit of African storytelling, while also welcoming international filmmakers to support and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of African narratives.

Categories for Submission: under the theme ( WE ARE THE PEOPLE)

Local is Lekker
Focusing on Nguni stories, particularly SiSwati and Ndebele, this category celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of South Africa. Share the vibrant narratives that define these unique societies.

Women Behind the Scenes
Recognizing and celebrating the incredible contributions of women in the film industry. Showcase the talent and dedication of women in various roles behind the camera.

WildFilm
Highlighting the best in wildlife filmmaking. Share your captivating wildlife narratives and breathtaking cinematography with the world.

Racism Around the World
Engage with the powerful theme of racism and its impact across the globe. Encourage dialogue and change through your compelling films.

Best Documentary
Celebrating excellence in the world of documentary filmmaking. Share your thought-provoking, informative, and impactful documentaries.

Best Experimental
Embrace innovation and creativity with experimental films that push the boundaries of traditional storytelling.

Best Student Short
Recognizing the emerging talent in the world of filmmaking. Show us what the future holds with your student short films.

Best First-Time Filmmaker Short
Celebrating the courage and creativity of first-time filmmakers. Share your unique vision with us.

Best Producer
Honoring the unsung heroes behind the scenes who bring films to life. Showcase the exceptional work of producers.

Best Director
Recognizing outstanding direction and storytelling in filmmaking. Share your vision and directorial prowess.

Best Actor
Celebrating the art of acting. Showcase the talents of exceptional actors who bring characters to life.

Best Cinematography
Recognizing the magic of cinematography. Share the beauty of your visual storytelling with the world.

Best Original Score
Celebrating the enchanting and evocative music that enhances the cinematic experience.

WILD MARKET SCRIPT ONLY
Have a wildlife script that has the potential to captivate audiences? Prizes start from $30,000 USD. Submit your script for a chance to win and see it come to life on the big screen.

Join us in making the 2024 Mpumalanga International Film Festival a monumental celebration of wildlife, culture, and storytelling. Be part of the magic!

For comprehensive submission guidelines and to submit your project, please visit our official website [insert website link]. We eagerly anticipate receiving your exceptional wildlife stories, vibrant local narratives, and compelling films.

Together, let's make 2024 a year of cinematic excellence, cultural celebration, and storytelling innovation.