How Film Afrika helps productions of all budgets achieve their cinematic vision

A growing number of filmmakers are turning their attention to South Africa, where economic advantages, top tier infrastructure, and reliable crews are pushing the boundaries of what's possible for mid-budget productions. At the forefront of the South African industry is Film Afrika, whose role is to assist productions to achieve their vision. 

While large international productions, like Netflix’s One Piece adaptation and Prime Video's The Wheel Of Time, have put South Africa in the headlines, the region is equally equipped to facilitate mid-budget productions looking to maximise their spend.

South Africa’s appeal includes a favourable currency exchange rate, which gives international producers a significant boost in buying power. This financial advantage is coupled with a deep well of local talent. Rather than relying on imported teams, Film Afrika leverages a large pool of skilled local crews, including Heads of Department, who have extensive experience on international sets.

This approach not only keeps costs down but also injects a collaborative spirit into every production.

Chrissy Metz in 'Faith In Flames'; Source: Lifetime/AE Network

This was demonstrated on Lifetime's recent project, Faith in the Flames: The Nichole Jolly Story starring Chrissy Metz and produced by Lighthouse Pictures and Wishing Floor Films in association with Film Afrika.

Based on a true story that takes place in California, USA, the film was completed entirely in South Africa. Working with a tight ‘Movie of the Week’ budget, South Africa's infrastructure allowed production to maximise its time and budget.

The production utilised South Africa’s diverse landscapes to double for California, with the Lourensford mountain range standing in for the iconic Sierra Nevada foothills.

South Africa doubling for California, USA in 'Faith In Flames'; Source: Film Afrika

In addition, the country's filming infrastructure is well-established and high-end. On Faith in the Flames, the team was able to seamlessly jump between facilities like the Filmscape Volume wall and the Atlantic’s Street backlot, making use of both in-camera filming as well as high end virtual production capabilities.

This was achievable thanks to South Africa’s skilled technical crews. But the region’s talent pool extends beyond below the line.

South Africa boasts a deep and diverse range of actors, many of whom can deliver performances with authentic international accents. This ensures that a production's creative vision can be fully realised with local talent.

The production also stayed put for post-production work, which was handled in Cape Town at The Refinery for full post and Mushroom Media for VFX, whose facilities allowed for a seamless collaboration with the international studio and director.

South Africa doubling for California, USA; Source: Film Afrika

With frequent flight options, a favourable time zone, and streamlined visa processes, the path to international collaboration is smoother than ever.

For producers seeking to maximise their budget without sacrificing quality, South Africa offers an accessible solution.

Filming in South Africa is made that much more feasible with the assistance of Film Afrika, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. Since its inception, Film Afrika has played a crucial role in attracting international productions of all scale to the country, demonstrating the creative and logistical advantages of filming in South Africa, and advancing the region's production capabilities.