11th Ugu International Film Festival

International movie stars are flocking to the picturesque KZN South Coast for the 11th Ugu International Film Festival.

With its stunning natural landscapes, constant subtropical climate, easy accessibility, and warm local communities, the KZN South Coast is solidifying its reputation as a top-tier film production destination. This status is further reinforced by its role as the host of the 11th Ugu International Film Festival, scheduled to run from September 14 to 16.

Phelisa Mangcu, the CEO of South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), expressed excitement about hosting the Ugu International Film Festival in the “Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom,” emphasizing the opportunity to showcase the KZN South Coast as a world-class film destination. She highlighted the region’s attractions, including world-class dive sites, Blue Flag Beaches, and breathtaking hinterland landscapes, making it an ideal setting for both domestic and international filmmakers.

One of the major draws for international documentary filmmakers is the annual Sardine Run, a phenomenon that creates unique underwater footage due to the planet’s greatest biomass migration. The KZN South Coast’s dive sites at Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks are renowned worldwide for year-round big animal diving, making them magnets for documentary film crews seeking extraordinary ocean footage.

Senzo Zindela, Founding Director of the Ugu International Film Festival, emphasized the festival’s role as an international platform for sharing information and equipping local creatives to enter the global market. The festival will feature workshops, exhibitions, and screenings at various venues, including Dezzi’s Raceway, Nyandezulu Community Hall, the Margate Museum, and Gcilima Community Hall.

The Opening Night on September 14 will be held at Ster-Kinekor Shelly Centre, featuring the screening of “The Lake,” directed by Lee Thongkham and produced by Hollywood Thailand and Thongkham Productions. Thongkham himself will be present to share insights into producing high-quality content on a reasonable budget.

The festival offers a diverse range of workshops and discussions led by industry experts. Topics include “The Art of Gigantic Monster Creation,” “The Art of Action Directing” by Vietnamese-American filmmaker Peter Pham, “Film Business and Funding Opportunities” by Benedicta Johnson, and discussions on emerging black filmmakers and special programs. There will also be masterclasses on acting, including one by legendary South African actor John Kani.

The festival’s film screenings include titles like “BoxCar” directed by Liam Whitcher and the comedic crossover “Fish’s Tale” by Bruce Gounder. Online screenings will also be available for international audiences. The Ugu International Film Festival will conclude with an awards ceremony at Dezzi Raceway on September 16.

Tickets for the event are available via Web tickets. For those seeking adventure on the KZN South Coast, the “Explore KZN South Coast” app and website provide a comprehensive guide.