The Garden Route International Film Festival (GRIFF), which showcases a diverse range of local, national, and international films – including features, short films and documentaries – will take place at Diaz Beach Hotel & Resort in Mossel Bay from August 2-5.
GRIFF provides a platform for filmmakers to present their work, while fostering cultural exchange and appreciation of the art of filmmaking.
The festival includes screenings, workshops, panel discussions and networking opportunities, allowing filmmakers and film enthusiasts to engage and connect.
The event kicks off with a ‘Green Carpet Opening Night’, including a film screening, on Wednesday, August 2.
The line-up from Thursday to Saturday includes daily films on big screens, workshops, seminars, networking functions, and youth training courses in various film-related disciplines.
Thursday will be a ‘Music of the Movies’ evening, with musical entertainment and a movie quiz, wine tasting, and film screening.
The Friday night’s live music show, Denim and Diamonds, is a tribute to Neil Diamond and features a tasting and screening.
The event concludes on Saturday, August 5 with an awards and closing function. But leading up to that grand finale will be an information-sharing session, most notably among those involved in the value chain of filmmaking, such as service providers and suppliers.
Programmes
The GRIFF Industry Programme guides businesses to benefit from the film trade’s supply chain.
In 2022, about R36 million (€1.7m) was poured directly into the district through film production; on the receiving end were suppliers of accommodation, catering, medical services, transport hire, and photography.
Also in the value chain are those who provide building materials and props, purchased from over 200 retailers and suppliers. In addition, local crews are trained and available to work on regional productions.
The Industry Programme offers a range of workshops, presentations, and panel discussions led by industry experts.
These sessions cover various topics related to filmmaking, such as screenwriting techniques, job opportunities in film, social media, film tourism and financing, distribution strategies, cinematography tips, and emerging trends.
The GRIFF Youth Programme targets ages 13-18, with various workshops and movies to view free from August 3-5.
