Lights, Camera, Action! South African Stories Set For The World Stage At Berlinale 2027

Local storytelling and creative voices are set to take centre stage as South Africa gets named the European Film Market’s “Country in Focus” for 2027

Johannesburg, South Africa (21 May 2026)- South Africa’s film industry is heading for one of its biggest global spotlights yet after being selected as the official “Country in Focus” for the 2027 Berlinale European Film Market (EFM).

The announcement means South African storytelling, filmmaking talent and production expertise will take centre stage at one of the world’s biggest film industry platforms during the 77th edition of the Berlin International Film Festival in February next year.

For local filmmakers, producers and creatives, it is another major moment for an industry that continues to grow its international reputation while telling uniquely South African stories to global audiences.

Berlinale Festival Director Tricia Tuttle said South Africa’s selection reflects both the country’s longstanding connection with the festival and the strength of its film industry.

“South African cinema brings together powerful storytelling, remarkable creative voices and a strong international outlook.”

From award-winning films and powerful documentaries to large-scale productions filmed across the country, South Africa’s film industry has steadily become one of the most recognised creative spaces on the continent.

And now, the world is about to get an even closer look. The “Country in Focus” programme shines a spotlight on a selected nation’s film industry, opening doors for collaboration, investment, co-productions and international partnerships across the global entertainment space.

For South Africa, it also highlights the country’s growing influence as both a storytelling powerhouse and a sought-after filming destination.

South African cinema already shares a strong history with the Berlinale. Over the years, local productions and filmmakers have regularly featured at the festival, with Mark Dornford-May’s U-Carmen eKhayelitsha famously becoming the first South African film to win the prestigious Golden Bear award back in 2005.

“We are excited to shine a spotlight on a film culture that continues to shape global conversations.”

From township stories and documentaries to major international productions shot against the backdrop of Cape Town, Johannesburg and the country’s landscapes, South African storytelling continues to resonate with audiences around the world.

The 2027 European Film Market will take place from 10 to 16 February as part of the 77th edition of the Berlin International Film Festival in Germany.

Sources: National Film and Video Foundation 

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