The Locarno Film Festival’s Open Doors program returns for its second year with a curated selection of African cinema, showcasing emerging talent and innovative storytelling from across the continent. Running August 5-10, 2026, the initiative highlights works that range from magical realism to political allegory, featuring directors and producers who are reshaping African filmmaking on the global stage.
Three projects stand out among the lineup: “Chapa 100,” a romantic tale infused with magical elements set in Mozambique’s capital, “A Vineyard for a Lobster,” an absurdist political work marking the directorial debut of a Ugandan filmmaker, and “Hibiscus by the River,” a queer drama spanning multiple continents. Alongside newly developed works, the program screens acclaimed recent productions, including “Cotton Queen,” a Sudanese film exploring post-colonial themes through a family drama, and “My Father’s Kora,” making its world premiere at the festival.
The 2026 lineup reflects broader trends within contemporary African cinema, with women filmmakers holding prominent positions among producers and directors. According to Open Doors leadership, the selected projects prioritize artistic authenticity while engaging with pressing contemporary issues, including the lasting effects of colonialism and the complexities of modern African society. Industry panels will address the significant challenge facing African filmmakers: the scarcity of traditional national funding mechanisms, exploring alternative investment models necessary for sustaining the continent’s growing creative output.
Originally reported by Variety →
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