Film Lab Africa takes center stage at ENIFF 2024

Film Lab Africa is set to bring its groundbreaking storytelling and innovative filmmaking programme to the 5th edition of the Eastern Nigeria International Film Festival (ENIFF), taking place in Enugu from November 27-30, 2024. With a lineup of action-packed, thought-provoking, and inspiring films, Film Lab Africa promises to showcase the very best of African storytelling.

This collaboration highlights ENIFF’s commitment to nurturing creativity and innovation within the African film industry, making it a hub for storytelling excellence. Film Lab Africa’s participation will culminate in a dedicated showcase, presenting films crafted through its transformative accelerator programme. These films offer compelling narratives that capture the spirit, resilience, and diversity of the African experience.

Speaking on the initiative, Delivery Partner for Film Lab Africa, Sunkanmi Adebayo, described the accelerator programme as more than just a training ground.

“Film Lab Africa’s accelerator programme goes beyond conventional learning by offering a comprehensive support system,”he stated. “Through mentorship, capacity-building sessions, and immersive industry workshops like Creative Hustle, we provide strategic guidance and technical assistance that empower filmmakers to thrive. Participants not only learn and pitch their ideas but also have opportunities to get their projects funded. This unique programme fosters a vibrant ecosystem of growth, collaboration, and peer-to-peer feedback that inspires excellence.”

ENIFF’s Co-Founder and Festival Director, Ujuaku Akukwe, shared her excitement about the partnership: “We are excited to welcome Film Lab Africa to ENIFF 2024. Their innovative approach to filmmaking aligns perfectly with our festival’s mission to celebrate the transformative power of storytelling. By showcasing the results of this exceptional accelerator programme, we aim to inspire emerging filmmakers in Enugu and beyond to reimagine their creative potential and explore new horizons.”

The Film Lab Africa showcase at ENIFF 2024 will feature a selection of films that highlight the groundbreaking talent and creative diversity emerging from the programme. From thought-provoking documentaries to boundary-pushing narratives, these films are set to captivate audiences and spark meaningful conversations.

This year’s ENIFF is themed “Reimagine” and invites filmmakers, audiences, and industry stakeholders to explore new possibilities in storytelling. With over 40 films from 15 countries, workshops, panel discussions, and cultural events such as Egwu Onwa: Tales by Moonlight, ENIFF continues to provide a platform for celebrating Africa’s rich cultural heritage while fostering international connections.

The festival will also feature a smartphone filmmaking workshop, impact lab by the European Union, and the highly anticipated screening of The Man Died, the opening film produced by Femi Odugbemi.

The Film Lab Africa showcase is free to attend, but registration is required. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magic of ENIFF 2024 and witness the remarkable work of African storytellers.

For more information and to register for the festival, visit ENIFF’s website.