Feast of top movies for SA

THIS year’s European Film Festival is running online, giving South Africans the rare opportunity to watch 18 films from Europe, 13 of which have been directed by women.

The festival follows last year’s successful format, with films running until October 24.

Films are screened free of charge, providing a window into what is fresh and new in the film industries of the respective countries.

Four new participants – the Czech Republic, Denmark, Switzerland and Ukraine – will complement those from last year. This year’s theme is Healing Journeys, with healing – be it mental, physical, spiritual or societal – being vital to the human condition.

The films present a snapshot of experiences of re-establishing oneself after sometimes traumatic and possibly cathartic experiences. They deal with journeys that include organic growth, transition, and processes of self-discovery. Many include a healthy dose of humour, bringing some much-needed laughter into our lives. The films also present stories of hope, humanity and thought-provoking intrigue, show-casing new work by some of Europe’s most accomplished filmmakers, alongside exciting new talent. Among them is the winner of the 2021 Oscar for Best International

Feature Film, Thomas Vinterberg’s Another Round, from Denmark.

“We are deep into our second year of Covid-19, both in terms of our lives and our livelihoods. It has been difficult… This year’s European Film Festival has been inspired by overcoming difficulty and challenge. Healing Journeys, seems rather appropriate for our times,” said EU Ambassador Riina Kionka.

The films are geo-blocked for viewing in South Africa only.

For film synopses, trailers and how to watch, please visit www.eurofilmfest.co.za