The DFMI will select approximately 8 official animation projects in development to present to a panel of film professionals consisting of potential co-producers, broadcasters, film funds, and distributors…
By Seyi Lasisi
The Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) has opened submissions for animation projects to pitch at the 16th annual DFM Pitch and Finance Forum.
The DFM Pitch and Finance Forum is a platform from within the continent to submit their animation projects for mentorship and possible funding. The DFMI will select approximately 8 official animation projects in development to present to a panel of film professionals consisting of potential co-producers, broadcasters, film funds, and distributors at Africa’s annual premier film finance and co-production market.
Speaking about the cultural importance and achievement of the Durban FilmMart to the African film industry, Magdalene Reddy, Director of the Durban FilmMart Institute, says, “Over the past 3 years the Durban FilmMart has not only seen an increase in the number of applications received from animators across the continent and the quality of projects has improved greatly. The animation industry in Africa is flourishing, and the DFMI is proud to be contributing to this growth”.
Animators with projects in development from across the continent are invited to apply. It should be noted that the forum is open to both series and feature-length projects, and at least one of the 3 key creatives (Producer, Writer, Director) should be from Africa or Africa in the Diaspora (with an African passport).
Successful project participants will be invited to participate in a comprehensive mentorship programme to prepare them for their live pitch and meetings at DFM 2025. The online mentorship programme will include a series of masterclasses with leading global industry experts in January and February 2025.
To present their project at the 16th DFM one representative from the project will be provided with travel and accommodation to attend the live Pitch and Finance Forum in July 2025 (travel support is only provided for one representative per project travel within Africa).
Applications can be made through the Durban FilmMart Institute website.
Deadline for applications: Sunday, 27 October 2024
About Durban FilmMart Institute
Durban FilmMart Institute is the business hub of the African film industry in a world where professionals and products 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.
The Durban FilmMart Institute runs year-round developmental programmes and an annual market (Durban FilmMart). The DFMI has recently launched Filmmart.Africa, which is an online tool for filmmakers to connect and which we hope will enhance visibility for African content. For more information about the DFMI programmes visit www.durbanfilmmart.co.za