The Jewel of the Great Karoo shines bright with the 2nd Indie Karoo Film Festival

“We aim to become one of the best film festivals in Africa,” says filmmaker Johnny Breedt. ‘’The IKFF's long-term plan is to be an annual event and this year’s festival is the second year in succession.’’

Founded in 2015, the Indie Karoo Film Festival is the brainchild of Breedt, creating a platform for independent filmmakers and storytellers producing cutting-edge feature, documentary, experimental and short films, by introducing audiences to some of South Africa's most exciting emerging talent.

The five-day festival allows patrons to rub shoulders and network with not only industry professionals, but also aspiring new filmmakers.

The spin-offs for locals are huge

“It’s an important event on the Prince Albert tourism calendar, not only for the town, but for the region as a whole,” says Breedt. “This event boosts tourism and trade and the spin-offs for locals are huge. Last year, all of the hospitality establishments were fully booked during the event. The festival also brings much-needed arts and culture to the region.”

Showcasing more than 40 feature films, experimental films, short films and documentaries, highlights of the festival include a Q & A with director Gavin Hood, who will discuss his film Eye in The Sky after its screening, and an informative talk by Koos Roets, whose ‘n Paw Paw vir my Darling will also be showing.

Other guests include filmmaker Jozua Malherbe, who recently directed Wolwedans in die Skemer, award-winning actress Rolanda Marais, film actor and poet Gerard Rudolf, and actress Lida Botha, best known for ‘n Paw Paw vir my Darling.

“We are fortunate to have The Showroom Theatre as the hub of the festival and this world-class venue is an integral part of promoting the performing arts, giving audiences exposure to quality acts and productions,” says Breedt, a resident of Prince Albert and co-owner of the Showroom Theatre, a collaborative project created by himself and local businesswoman Charon Landman.

During the festival the Zwartberg High, the Jans Rautenbach Schouwburg and the Sidwell Williams Centre will also be alive with action, giving festival-goers an opportunity to experience the hospitality of Prince Albert and its residents.

Selected feature, documentary, experimental and short films will be screened over three days from 1 to 3 July.

Training and skills transfer

“Training and skills transfer are also an important part of the festival,” says Breedt, with a script-writing workshop presented by The Writing Studio, Bobby Roth’s directing masterclass, as well as editing and grading workshops by Labspace running from 29 June to 3 July.

Apart from the excellent films and workshops on offer, patrons are encouraged to explore, discover, taste and enjoy the many attractions that Prince Albert - the Jewel of the Great Karoo, has to offer. Here you will find True Karoo Hospitality combined with the Creative Energy of the Indie Karoo Film Festival.

The Indie Karoo Film Festival is not just a film festival, it’s a festivity of storytelling, story making and socialising in the heart of the Karoo.

The proudly South African Indie Karoo Film Festival is sponsored by Wesgro, Raindog films, Moonlighting, and supported by Advantage Entertainment, The Showroom Theatre, Redflag, The Color Space, and Lahdidah.

For Daily or Weekend passes to the Indie Karoo Film Festival, and more information on the films and workshops, go to www.indiekaroofilmfestival.com or The Showroom Theatre: theshowroomtickets.com/index.php?cPath=166