For nearly three decades, the Encounters South African International Documentary Film Festival has provided a platform within the Mother City’s arts and culture scene for stories that challenge, inspire and connect audiences. This year, the festival returns for its 28th edition, bringing a mix of local and international documentary filmmaking to screens in Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Running from 4 to 14 June 2026, the festival features an extensive programme of documentaries from around the world while placing a strong focus on South African storytelling. According to the City of Cape Town, audiences can expect 58 documentaries from 33 countries presented across 116 screenings.
Cape Town’s creative community will have a significant presence at this year’s event, with 13 projects produced by local filmmakers selected for screening. The films cover a wide range of themes and perspectives, reflecting the diversity and depth of documentary storytelling emerging from the city.
The selected Cape Town productions include A Place Called Paradise, Amigo The Griot, Before They Sold the Sky, Bones, Concerto, Curtain Call, Die Lopende Ambulanse, Eyes to See Filmmaker, Her Khaltsha, Inyembezi Zendoda, Notes from the Underground, Talking to Family and Wat Was Hie?
Cape Town appears on screen too
Beyond the work of local filmmakers, Cape Town also features as a backdrop in two internationally selected documentaries.
One of the most anticipated titles is TUTU, a documentary exploring the life and legacy of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, whose leadership and moral courage played a pivotal role in South Africa’s struggle against apartheid and the country’s democratic transition.
Another international feature, Tristan Forever, follows a Parisian doctor whose long-standing friendship with a fisherman from Tristan da Cunha leads him on a deeply personal journey back to the remote island community.
Local documentary filmmaking continues to grow
The festival will also host four world premieres of South African documentary features, highlighting the continued growth of the country’s nonfiction film sector.
South Africa’s documentary industry has increasingly gained international recognition for tackling social issues, preserving historical memory and telling community-centred stories that often go untold in mainstream media. Festivals such as Encounters have become an important meeting point for filmmakers, producers, students and audiences interested in meaningful storytelling.
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According to the City of Cape Town, the programme extends beyond film screenings and includes masterclasses, panel discussions and one-on-one engagements with industry professionals. These sessions offer emerging filmmakers opportunities to learn from experienced practitioners and build industry connections.
Celebrating stories that matter
In the City’s statement, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security Alderman JP Smith said the municipality remains committed to supporting the festival and the role it plays in bringing important stories to audiences.
His comments reflect the growing recognition of the creative sector as both a cultural and economic contributor to Cape Town, a city that has become one of Africa’s leading destinations for film production and storytelling.
The continued success of Encounters demonstrates the enduring appetite for documentaries that inform, challenge perspectives and spark conversation. At a time when audiences are increasingly seeking authentic voices and real-world stories, the festival remains one of South Africa’s most important cultural events.
Screenings in Cape Town will take place at The Labia Theatre and Ster-Kinekor at the V&A Waterfront, while Johannesburg audiences will also have access to the festival programme throughout the 10-day event.
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Picture: City Of Cape Town
