Camps Bay, Cape Town – The 14th kykNET Silwerskermfees is again celebrating the best of South African film and television.
For 13 years the kykNET Silwerskermfees has played an important role in supporting, empowering and developing the local entertainment industry. The festival celebrates the essence of South African storytelling while creating opportunities for emerging filmmakers, actors, writers and other industry professionals.
With a packed programme showcasing local talent, new productions and stories, it reflect the diverse experiences of South Africans.
The power of storytelling
Tina Kruger, Programme Manager of the Silwerskermfees, says storytelling is an essential part of the human experience.
“Stories help people make sense of their existence, connect with one another and see the world from different perspectives.”
The festival provides a platform where these stories can be developed, shared and celebrated, while contributing to the growth of South Africa’s film and television industry.
City of Cape Town backs the creative industry
JP Smith, City of Cape Town Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, opened the Silwerskermfees festival.
Smith said the City of Cape Town remains committed to supporting the local film and television industry. He highlighted the creative’s contribution to the city’s economy..
“The Silwerskermfees celebrates the best of South African film, television and storytelling, bringing local talent and industry leaders together in Camps Bay.”
The City of Cape Town is a partner of the Silwerskermfees. Two productions, Silas en die Ysbeer op Tafelberg and Spinners is benefiting from the City’s film fund.
Silas en die Ysbeer op Tafelberg premieres
Following the opening and welcome, Silwerskermfees festival goers were treated to the premiere of Silas en die Ysbeer op Tafelberg.
The family film brings Cape Town’s rich cultural history to life and offers audiences an entertaining story rooted in the city’s unique character and heritage.
Neill Sandilands, who plays Van Hunks in the film, said he enjoyed the production, and was pleased that his role meant he did not have to cut or shave his beard.
A platform for emerging South African talent
The festival showcases the work of young talent through a diverse selection of short films and short documentaries produced with financial support and mentorship from the festival.
The programme includes panel discussions, workshops and industry-focused masterclasses presented by leading local and international experts.
These opportunities allow emerging creatives to gain valuable knowledge, build networks and engage directly with established professionals in the entertainment industry.
Silwerskerm Awards
A highlight of the festival is the prestigious Silwerskerm Awards for Film and Television, which recognise outstanding achievements across the South African entertainment industry.
The awards celebrate the people behind some of the country’s most compelling productions while shining a spotlight on the creativity and talent that continues to drive the local industry forward.
From pitching to production
Kruger says the festival’s Silwermark (Silver Market) provides another important opportunity for content creators, giving filmmakers and content producers the chance to pitch projects in person across a variety of content categories.
Building the future of SA film and television
The Silwerskermfees remains committed to growing the local film and TV industry, developing audiences, training and mentoring talent and promoting local content.
For Kruger, the festival is about much more than film and television.
“Stories presented at the Silwerskermfees have the power to inspire audiences, challenge perceptions and introduce festivalgoers to new perspectives.”
The Silwerskermfees brings together established names and emerging voices in South African entertainment and continues to demonstrate the importance of investing in local stories, and in the people who tell them.
