The 8th edition of the Joburg Film Festival (3–8 March 2026), supported by the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS), saw the launch of Cut to Story: The African Fiction Forum & Edit Lab (CTS), a new platform dedicated to the development and post-production of African fiction films.
Conceived as a space for story development, craft and exchange, the pilot edition supported predominantly first- and second-time South African filmmakers through consultations, pitching sessions, mentorship and award opportunities. The initiative marks a welcome addition to the festival’s industry programme, strengthening support for emerging voices in the sector.
As part of this first edition, French producer Joachim Landau, CEO of Empreinte Digitale and co-founder of Federation Middle East Africa Caribbean, joined the CTS jury. Supported by IFAS, his participation contributed international expertise to the programme at an early stage, offering valuable insight to participating filmmakers. IFAS supported his attendance at the festival, enabling his involvement across several platforms.
In addition to his role on the CTS jury, Landau took part in the Joburg Xchange (JBX) industry programme, including the JBX Talks session The French Connection: Creativity and Collaboration between Africa and France. He also presented his documentary BATWING Unmasked: An African Super Hero during the festival, followed by a public discussion on representation and African-led storytelling.
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