The Cape Town International Film Market and Festival kicked off last night with a prestigious red carpet event. Dignitary guests from around the world attended to celebrate.
The CTIFMF opening gala welcomed Cape Town’s creatives, from film makers to actors and actresses – the event was a feast for industry buffs and film-lovers, donning their most elegant attire for the night.
One of the world’s youngest script and book writers, Amr Salie, completed his second book at the young age of 12 years-old also attended the auspicious evening.
A total of 161 films will be shown during the festival from 10 -19 October, with 80 independent feature films, 61 short films and 20 documentaries. Due to the City partnering with the Italian Consulate, the festival will also feature the largest number of Italian based movies showcased in South Africa.
Film-lovers will also get the opportunity to experience International cinema, promising a range of movies from Italy, Romania, Japan, Indonesia and more.
A focus will be placed on the short film genre, featuring up-coming South African movie makers and representing the cinematic talent of locals.
The public can view a selection of productions at various locations at the V&A Waterfront.
A detailed schedule of the line up available from the 10 -19 October can be found here.
Tickets to the show cost R50 per person with a free family-friendly screening taking place at the V&A Waterfront amphitheater.
Here are some moments captured from the red carpet opening held at the Artscape Theatre.
View this post on InstagramThe crowd at the @artscapetheatre for the opening of the @filmfestival.capetown #ctifmf2018
Sew the Winter to My Skin
The film ‘Sew the Winter to My Skin’ featured as the opening film for the red carpet event.
This riveting production was submitted to the 91st Oscars Annual Academy Awards for ‘Best Foreign Language Film’.
Directed and written by Jahmil X.T Qubeka, the film received acclaim at the Cannes L’Atelier 2017 and had its world premier at the Toronto International Film Festival in September.
The story is set in the rural Great-Karoo of the 1950s and follows the adventures of a ‘Robin-hood’ character, John Kepe – who steals livestock and other items from a nearby settlers farm.
The movie sheds light on the past atrocities of South Africa but also the human desire to live and to experience life. It highlights the impact of Kepe’s actions on those around him and sets the audience on a heart-wrenching journey understanding the lives of all the characters.
It reminds viewers of the fight for survival and highlights the power of actions and expressions with its limited dialogue.
Audience are kept on the edge of their seats as powerful moments of the film are carried out in complete silence.
As the movie ended, viewers were left contemplating where South Africa has been historically and where we are going forward. ‘Sew the Winter Skin’ is a must-see film.
Picture: Facebook