HISTORY OF FILM IN SOUTH AFRICA

Today, we have a multi-million-rand industry boasting incredibly diverse talent. Take a look at our timeline to discover some of the fascinating moments in our history. 

1890s – First Kinetoscope in South Africa opened to the public in April 1985 in Johannesburg. 

1910s – Schlesinger established African Film Productions Ltd, Africa’s first motion picture studio in Johannesburg. 

1920s – The first trailers (advertisements for forthcoming screenings) started to appear. 

1930s – “The African Mirror” previously silent, was given sound – the first introduction of sound in motion picture. 

1940s – Cecil Kellaway became the first South African to be nominated for an Academy award. 

1950s – Jamie Uys “Daar Doer in Bosveld”, South Africa’s first colour film was released. 

1960s – “The Hellions” was South Africa’s first Western and co-production between South Africa, Britain and USA.

1970s – Simon Sabela’s “U’Deliwe” was the first local movie directed by a person of colour. 

1980s – Video cassette recorders were introduced into the market allowing home viewing. 

1990s – “Sarafina” directed by David James Roodt, was released. 

2000s – “Mr.Bones” was released becoming the highest grossing SA movie ever. 

2010s – “Skoonheid” was awarded the Queer Palm Award at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival. 

2020s –  “Queen Sono” Africa’s first Netflix Original airs.