Ugu International Film Festival

The 11th edition of the UGU International Film Festival was successfully executed as planned, where we opened with an award-winning Thailand action sci-fi film titled The Lake. This event continues to uphold its vision of attracting international investors, producers and relevant industry professionals who are winners in their respective continents to ascertain that the area is promoted and drives job creation through new projects across the board. A key priority of the festival remains empowering previously disadvantaged communities while fostering inclusivity by engaging creatives from diverse backgrounds worldwide.

This long-term vision was once again achieved, and many successful stories were recorded. The highlights included a spectacular opening night featuring The Lake, a diverse and engaging audience, exhibitions, the launch of the UGU Casting Agency and the announcement of Paladin Resurrection an upcoming action thriller set to premiere on the big screen before the end of the year. Additionally, the international film Alpha Omega was announced, a project expected to generate over 1000 jobs in South Africa, advanced master classes and workshops conducted by Dr John Kani, live broadcast or coverage by SABC on Trendz and Expression, fully packed community outreach attendance in rural areas of Gcilima, Nyandezulu and Gamalakhe.

The event has also garnered and created long term sustainable partnerships with local educational institutions, entertainment and creative sector. The event was held from the 14th - 16th of September with Margate Art Museum as the central venue. The 12th edition is expected to be more informative, engaging and impactful to wider communities.

We also pride ourselves for the short film competition program in which young creatives from South Coast produced more than 16 short films against human trafficking using their cell phones. The production of these 16 short films were inspired by the producers of the PALADIN RESURRECTION film against human trafficking (a South African co-production with Bangladesh starring Abul Hayat, Luthuli Dlamini, Mark Elderkin etc).

This is the first festival in South Africa that goes beyond artistic films, by accommodating all kinds of genres i.e. action, sci-fi, etc. We believe that emerging and experienced filmmakers deserve equal rights to showcase their talent; therefore, this festival is initiated as a platform to give new filmmakers from KZN/Africa/ all over the world a chance to showcase their films worldwide, while promoting the projects of the experienced filmmakers. Strengthening ongoing partnerships.