IIFF 2024 Masterclasses: Prioritising Film Education in Zimbabwe

The International Images Film Festival for Women recently hosted three transformative masterclasses, equipping participants with vital skills in storytelling, film scoring, and the role of feminism in cinema.

The International Images Film Festival for Women (IIFF) 2024, which ran from August 23 to 31 in Harare, included insightful masterclasses which covered Story and Script Development, Film Music, as well as Feminism and Film. The masterclasses furnished the attendees with further skills to improve their film competencies in order to enhance their production capacity and impact within the industry. The sessions took place in the city at the Alliance Francaise, courtesy of the Alliance Francaise, and at B2C Nexus, Batanai Mall.

First scheduled on 25 August was a Story and Script Development masterclass facilitated by script analysts Gabriele Sindler from Austria and Donat Keusch from Switzerland, who together own the European company dfk*films. Describing today’s ultra competitive global film landscape, the facilitators highlighted the vast number of films produced each year, emphasising how amongst these, truly outstanding scripts were scarce. “Understanding the distinction between a story and a script is fundamental,” the facilitators emphasized, urging writers to prioritize crafting narratives which resonate with audiences worldwide. They also explained that relatable characters and a well-structured narrative arc are essential components of compelling storytelling. They encouraged writers to draw inspiration from their own life experiences, allowing for authentic connections with viewers.

Distinguished composer Osei Essed from the United States, presented a masterclass on the function and process of film scoring. “Film music is not merely background noise; it is a powerful storytelling tool,” he told some thirty deeply engaged Zimbabwean filmmakers. After a discussion of how film scores differ from other types of music, Essed followed up by demonstrating the need for contextually appropriate music in a film scene, to ensure a cohesive auditory experience which complements the visual narrative. He emphasised the collaborative nature of the work when producing a successful film score.

AneUnhu Gwatidzo, one of the masterclass attendees, noted that this first ever Zimbabwean film music masterclass was a major achievement, which provided local filmmakers with the opportunity to learn from a veteran industry player. Gwatidzo further added of the August 26 event that more people, especially upcoming filmmakers, needed to be involved in life changing opportunities like the film music masterclass.

During the third and last IIFF 2024 masterclass held on August 28, celebrated Spanish feminist filmmaker Carla Sospedra discussed the intersection of film and feminism to an audibly engaged audience of nearly twenty young women. Sospedra emphasized the urgent need for greater and better representation of women behind, and not only in front of, the camera to contribute to gender equality. She explained how films have the power to challenge stereotypes and reshape societal narratives.

“By increasing the number of women in directing and production roles, we can diversify the stories being told,” Sospedra said. Reflecting on her career journey, she commented, "I always saw films through a male lens, but I knew I wanted to be the change I sought." For Sospedra, supporting other women in the industry is essential. She also shared details about her upcoming science fiction film, which explores the intersection of climate change and menopause, themes which align with her commitment to transforming the industry into a space where women can thrive. Recognising that juggling being a mother and a filmmaker is challenging, Sospedra regards her projects as her babies.

Notable insights from IIFF Founder and prizewinning filmmaker Tsitsi Dangarembga further enriched the discussion when she commented on the ongoing need for solidarity b etween women and advocacy for women in the industry.

The IIFF 2024 masterclasses not only supported individual development among filmmakers, but also contributed to local filmmakers', especially young female filmmakers', better understanding the role of cinema as a medium for meaningful change in society.