Running from March 11th to 16th, 2025, the Joburg Film Festival promises to transform the city into a vibrant hub of cinematic excellence.
By Emmanuel ‘Waziri’ Okoro
The highly anticipated 7th edition of the Joburg Film Festival, in partnership with MultiChoice Group, is set to commence next month with the world premiere of Ernest Cole: Lost and Found.
The documentary, which made waves at its World Premiere during the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, where it won ‘Best Documentary’, celebrates the life and work of one of South Africa’s most revolutionary photographers, Ernest Cole.
Running from March 11th to 16th, 2025, the Joburg Film Festival promises to transform the city into a vibrant hub of cinematic excellence.
With over 100 films from around the globe, including 28 African premieres and 12 world premieres, audiences can expect an eclectic mix of storytelling—from gripping narratives to thought-provoking documentaries. The festival will also shine a spotlight on emerging talent by showcasing student films from leading South African institutions such as AFDA, TUT, UCT, and WITS.
Ernest Cole: Lost and Found delves into the extraordinary life of a man who used photography as a weapon against apartheid. Cole’s images vividly captured the struggles and resilience of ordinary South Africans under an oppressive regime, making his work an enduring symbol of courage and activism.
The documentary uncovers the discovery of a treasure trove of Cole’s photographs, hidden for decades in a Swedish bank vault. This collection, long believed to be lost, was recently returned to his family and now stands as a testament to Cole’s artistic and historical significance.
A selection of these photographs is currently on display at the Goodman Gallery in Cape Town, offering viewers an intimate look at Cole’s compelling vision.
Directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Raoul Peck—acclaimed for Lumumba and I Am Not Your Negro—the documentary explores not only Ernest Cole’s groundbreaking work but also the personal and political struggles that defined his short life. Peck’s attendance at the festival’s opening night adds a layer of prestige to an evening dedicated to honouring Cole’s legacy.
Festival curator, Nhlanhla Ndaba, remarked, “This film is not just a celebration of Cole’s remarkable body of work; it’s also a deeply moving exploration of his untimely death in exile at the age of 28. With exclusive access to his photos and a nuanced examination of his life, this documentary is a long-awaited homecoming for a man whose dream was to return to South Africa”.
In addition to the opening night premiere, JFF 2025 promises a plethora of cinematic experiences. From red-carpet galas to industry networking events, the festival will immerse attendees in the world of film.