The Joburg Film Festival (JFF), in partnership with MultiChoice Group, a CANAL+ company, has officially announced its highly anticipated 2026 programme.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Johannesburg, the festival runs from March 3 to 8, 2026, presenting an extraordinary selection of films that beautifully meld African storytelling with the cutting edge of global cinema.
This year’s festival will screen more than 60 curated films, including 40 fiction features, 18 non-fiction features, and an impressive 65 short films, among them nine creative student works.
These selections were meticulously chosen from a staggering 691 submissions hailing from Africa, Europe, the USA, South America, the UK, Asia, and the Middle East. Audiences can look forward to screenings in multiple cinemas across Johannesburg, promising a cinematic experience like no other.
Guided by the compelling theme "Feel The Frame", this year’s festival will delve into the aesthetics of filmmaking, focusing on performance, sound, form, structure, and visual language.
As part of the engaging programme, attendees can anticipate world premieres, glamorous red-carpet events, Q&As with filmmakers, interactive panel discussions, valuable networking opportunities, and exclusive masterclasses.
“We always seek to create a platform that reflects the breadth and depth of contemporary film-making,” remarked JFF Curator Nhlanhla Ndaba.
“This year’s programme centres on layered, human stories from across the continent and the world – films that are entertaining, challenging, and deeply resonant.”
As it continues to solidify its position as a premier platform for emerging African voices while showcasing internationally acclaimed films.
Sparking local pride, the festival will shine a spotlight on South African cinema with standout films such as Kabelo, featuring Warren Masemola and set in Lesotho; the enlightening documentary And She Didn’t Die, which chronicles the life of novelist and liberation fighter Lauretta Ngcobo; and Laundry (Uhlanjululo), the impressive debut from Zamo Mkhwanazi starring an ensemble cast including Tracy September and Ntobeko Sishi.
It is explained that these films significantly confront South Africa’s rich yet tumultuous past and present. Notably, Don’t Be Late for My Funeral by Diana Keam offers a deeply personal exploration of relationships during the apartheid era, while Ancestral Visions of the Future by Lemohang Mosese presents a meditative reflection on identity, memory, and belonging.
Nomsa Philiso, Director of Content, General Entertainment, English & Portuguese-speaking Africa at MultiChoice Group, says these innovative films reflect the festival's unwavering commitment to high-quality craft and storytelling.
“We’re proud to support a festival that showcases Africa’s talent and welcomes the world into our creative ecosystem,” said Philiso.
“The Joburg Film Festival aligns strongly with our commitment to amplifying African voices and supporting the next generation of filmmakers.”
Saturday Star