Ugu, South Africa – The highly anticipated 12th Ugu International Film Festival (UIFF) is just around the corner, and the countdown has begun! This exciting event is made possible by the generous support of esteemed sponsors, including: Russian Artificial Intelligence and electric car production company Duyunov’s Engines, South Coast Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ugu South Coast Tourism, Ray Nkonyeni Municipality, The Margate, Solar Group, Margate Hotel, Oasis Margate, Karambas, Senzi’s and Zindela Pictures.
Scheduled to take place from the 18th to the 19th of October 2024 at The Margate, Ugu International Film Festival promises to bring together film enthusiasts, industry professionals, and local communities to celebrate the magic of cinema. The festival will dish a menu that comprise activities including showcase of local and international films, workshops and masterclasses with industry experts, and networking opportunities with filmmakers and producers.
A new element that has been added to the festival to empower filmmakers and the community of Ugu is the “Film and Business Market 2024” which will mainly serve as a catalyst in aligning businesses and film sectors with the aim of future collaborations. Through the market, UGUIFF aims to reach out to all levels and standards of living by incorporating several activities comprising exhibition stands, live film action performances for live audience, stunt performances for kids, involvement of schools and many others. Various businesses and individuals have committed to showcasing their products while high end film discussions, film workshops and film screenings will be held at the same venue.
Commenting on the support the festival has received this year festival founder Mr. Senzo Zindela said, “We are thrilled to host the 12th Ugu International Film Festival, promoting cultural exchange, creativity, and economic growth in our region. Our sponsors’ support is invaluable, and we look forward to delivering an unforgettable experience.”
The festival’s premium sponsor Duyunov’s Engines highlighted that they are proud to support Ugu International Film Festival, fostering entrepreneurship and community development through the arts,” while the Ugu South Coast Tourism expressed their excitement to once again partner with UIFF, “showcasing our stunning region’s tourism potential.”
“Duyunov’s Engines” is a project that commercialises the unique technology of combined windings “Slavyanka”. The technology allows the team of engineer Dmitry Alexandrovich Duyunov to design new generation electric motors used in electric transport, industry, agriculture, military industry, aviation, household appliances, medicine and other areas. Duyunov’s hub motor is the first in the world induction motor with “Slavyanka” winding that has a unique combination of work capacity and power consumption. The new technology is based on the developed innovative technology of combined motor winding (a star and delta winding combined in parallel).
The public and community of Ugu is encouraged to attend the festival, gain knowledge through the tranfer of skills from workshops and enjoy the films to be screened. Industry professionals in attendance and who will conduct workshops include : award-winning actor, Luthuli Dlamini who will facilitate the Acting for Big Screen workshop, award-winning actor Siyabonga Shibe, Thabo Mnguni, Sthembiso Mtshali, motion picture director Siya Sityana, Portia Ncwane, a philanthropist and producer, director, and internationally acclaimed Peter Pham who will conduct the Art of Action Directing workshop.
Films to be screened include : The Foggy Mountain, Indida Yothando, My Father’s Shadow, Safe Bet, Colourful Crime and many others