Themes include socio political debates, religious and social subcultures, environmental issues and identity.
"We, at Ster-Kinekor Theatres, are thrilled about this year's festival, specifically in the selection of feature documentaries from our African continent which as always, seamlessly succeeds in mirroring and commenting on all the various ingredients that form the fabric of our society. We hope our audiences will also enjoy these important and poignant screenings," says Trish Downing, senior marketing and communications manager at Ster-Kinekor Theatres.
A significant figure in the South African Political landscape, George Bizos, is celebrated in Here be Dragons (South Africa), an account of the international human rights icon, most recognised for saving Nelson Mandela from the gallows, for the inquest into Steve Biko's torture and death, and for more human rights cases than any other lawyer in South Africa.
Another noteworthy South African title; The Battle of Johannesburg (South Africa) chronicles the journey of the 2010 FIFA World Cup as the eyes of the world were on South Africa. The film raises universal questions such as, does urban development have to mean gentrification and is it possible to create a world class city for all?
More political debate is seen in Mugabe and the White African (Zimbabwe) directed by Lucy Bailey. In 2008 Michael Campbell one of the few hundred white farmers left in Zimbabwe, took the unprecedented step of challenging President Robert Mugabe in an International Court; accusing Robert Mugabe and his government of racial discrimination and violations of basic human rights.
Good Fortune (Kenya) explores how massive, international efforts to alleviate poverty in Africa may be undermining the very communities they aim to benefit. Through intimate portraits of two Kenyans battling to save their homes from large-scale development organisations, the film presents a unique opportunity to experience foreign aid through the eyes of the people it is intended to benefit.
Recently released titles from other continents include Altiplano (Belgium) which is a lyrical and probing film about the divided but inextricably linked world. War photographer Grace, and Saturnina, a young woman in Turubamba, find their world's colliding as they both lose their husbands and their destinies merge. Bastardy (Australia) is a story of a self-proclaimed 'Robin Hood' of the streets.
The Tri Continental Film Festival will be showcasing at the following selected Ster-Kinekor and Cinema Nouveau Theatres nationwide:
Tickets may be booked either through Ticketline on +27 (0) 82 16789 or online - either on a WAP-enabled cell phone or PC via www.sterkinekor.com ; or book in Ster-Kinekor cinemas at the self-service terminals (SSTs) or box offices.
