South Africa has been named “Country in Focus” for the upcoming edition of the Berlinale European Film Market (EFM), putting the country’s film industry in the spotlight as one of the world’s leading cinema markets.
South Africa will be the country of focus, with stakeholders in the picture when signing the agreement. Source:Supplied.
international praise
As one of Africa's most globally integrated and diverse economies, South Africa is home to a dynamic and internationally connected film industry that combines creative excellence, strong production capabilities and growing global market relevance. With internationally acclaimed filmmakers, diverse storytelling traditions, world-class crews and competitive production infrastructure, the country has established itself as a major partner for the international film and media industry.
South African cinema has long been a part of the Berlinale's history. Over the past decades, South African filmmakers and productions have been regularly represented in festival and market events, reflecting the country's creative diversity and international resonance. in 2005, A-Carmen Ikhyelitsha Mark Dornford-May became the first South African film to win Berlinale's Golden Bear, marking a milestone in the festival's relationship with the country's cinema.
“The designation of South Africa as the European Film Market's 'Focus Country' for 2027 reflects both its long-term relationship with Berlinale and the extraordinary vitality of its film industry. South African cinema brings together powerful storytelling, remarkable creative voices and a strong international perspective. We are excited to shine a light on a film culture that continues to shape the global conversation and create new opportunities for collaboration between South African and international partners at EFM”, says Festival Director Tricia Tuttle. Are.
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South Africa continues to attract international productions through its exceptional combination of creative talent, experienced staff, advanced production services and highly diverse locations – from metropolitan cities and dramatic coastlines to arid landscapes, mountains and wildlife sanctuaries. With favorable weather conditions, efficient logistics, sophisticated financial and technological infrastructure and other attractive allurements, the country has become one of the most sought-after filming destinations in the world.
“The European Film Market’s focus on South Africa highlights a dynamic, globally competitive film industry that offers diverse storytelling, strong co-production opportunities and a strategic gateway for international partners wishing to engage with African markets”, says Tanja Meissner, Director of Berlinale Pro. “At EFM, cultural visibility meets solid market potential. The program will connect South African talent, projects and companies with international buyers, financiers, producers and platforms, while also opening new avenues for long-term collaboration.”
rich cultural heritage
In addition to its strength as a production centre, South African cinema is recognized internationally for its compelling and multidimensional storytelling. Drawing inspiration from the country's rich cultural heritage, complex history and contemporary social realities, South African filmmakers continue to bring bold and distinctive visions to global audiences and festival screens alike.
“This is more than recognition, it is an invitation. South Africa brings to the European film market an extraordinary combination of creative talent, production capacity and stories drawn from one of the world's most compelling cultural landscapes. We are open to collaboration, co-production and investment and we are confident that those who engage with our industry in Berlin will leave with a deep appreciation of what South Africa has to offer as a creative and commercial partner. From The Heart Is a Muscle from U-Carmen IkhayelitshaThe world is experiencing authentic South African storytelling in all its layers. Our commitment as a Government is to ensure that working relationships and co-production drive growth for all involved. Additionally, the challenges that have impacted our filmmakers’ ability to produce at scale are being addressed”, says Guyton McKenzie, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture.
“This moment is a great testament to the growth of the South African film industry. This opportunity reflects many years of effort by the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) team and we are thrilled to elevate deserving South African filmmakers. It comes at such an opportune time where the socio-economic challenges of storytelling through film are being tested in ways that balance truth and hope. This European Film Market in Berlin will provide our filmmakers with a platform to showcase the diversity of our country. and connect our stories to the global community. NFVF will continue to ensure that South African filmmakers who produce globally acclaimed films have access to platforms like Berlinale”, says Onke Dumeko, Acting CEO of NFVF.
Since 2017, EFM's “Countries in Focus” initiative has highlighted important film regions around the world, providing in-depth insights into their creative industries while promoting international exchange and collaboration. Following previous showcases dedicated to countries and regions including Mexico, Canada, Norway, Chile, the Baltic States, Italy, Spain and Morocco, the 2027 edition will put South Africa's vibrant film scene at the center of the market. The aim of the program is to create new opportunities for dialogue and collaboration between South African and international producers, distributors, investors, broadcasters, streamers and filmmakers of all genres and formats – from arthouse cinema and documentaries to commercial productions, series, animation and emerging media.
As part of the 77th Berlin International Film Festival, the European Film Market will take place from 10 to 16 February 2027.