Master Classes

MASTER CLASS 1 – WRITING FOR ADAPTATION

Presented by Karen Jeynes

Basing a film or TV series on a novel, biography, memoir or video game is becoming increasingly popular. This master class will enable a brief discussion on rights and IP, how to go about selecting source material and what kind of books and stories make for good adaptations. Participants will look at the needs and demands of screen vs page, common issues that arise in the adaptation process, and have a chance to discuss some successful adaptations and what made them work.

One of the key challenges with adaptations is that you always have two audiences, those who know the underlying work, and those who don’t. Therefore, a big focus will be on audience and how to keep them in mind as you write and create.

Another emphasis will be on innovation – how to ensure your work still has your mark and identity on it, even when you’re working in the adaptation space.

To apply for this master class, follow this link.

MASTER CLASS 2 – GEAR SHIFT with Media Film Service

Presented by Martin Neethling

Media Film Service is South Africa’s leading supplier of products and services to the motion picture industry and offers a wide range of equipment, all maintained to the highest standard by internationally trained technicians. Unrivalled in supplying high-end equipment, advice and support through a staff of knowledgeable professionals, Media Film Service eagerly consults on decision-making regarding the most suitable equipment for specific needs and budget.

Specialist Martin Neethling offers a hands-on interactive master class demonstrating the capabilities and range of high-end technical gear. Aspiring directors, cinematographers, lighting technicians, focus pullers, editors and all other filmmakers interested in optimising the cinematic experience for their viewer, will find this immersive experience informative, engaging and enlightening.

To apply for this master class, follow this link.

MASTER CLASS 3 – FORMATS

Presented by Freddy Louw & Marguerite Albrecht

This practical, interactive session will give participants new insights into formats in the world of reality television, a genre that has seen a huge surge in demand globally over the last two years.

The second dawn of reality TV is upon is, but is it the same kind of reality TV we grew up with?

We’ll explore the reasons for the recent unprecedented success of local reality format shows like Die brug and Op my eish!. The performance of the latter exceeded all expectations. But just how well did these shows really do? And why did they resonate so well with the kykNET audience?

The master class will also give insights into the channel’s methodology when they consider new formats to produce and will walk participants through the process of creating a pitch deck that might just earn you your next callback.

The sessions also promise to take a closer look at the magic behind The Traitors, the new global reality hit that’s on everyone’s watchlist. How did this format come about, what makes it so unique, and is there a deeper history behind the format that viewers are unaware of? Which format elements of The Traitors are rubbing off onto other formats and why?

To apply for this master class, follow this link.

Closing date 15 July

Pitch your content idea at the kykNET Silwerskerm Silwermark

Do you have a story that you think could become a drama series? Is there a lifestyle or reality show or a documentary series you believe simply has to be made? Maybe you have a movie waiting to happen. Well, here’s your shot at turning that dream into a reality.

At the end of August, it’s time for the annual kykNET Silwerskerm Film Festival in Camps Bay, Cape Town. Short films, features and documentaries are on the programme, and for four days everything is all about fabulous content for cinema, television and streaming alike.

But the focus is not only on content that’s already produced. kykNET is also searching for new strong story concepts to commission. And that’s where writers, producers, and other filmmakers with a stunning idea are welcome to join the party.

How does it work? Submit an original, creative proposal in any of the following categories:

kykNET: Drama

kykNET: Reality and entertainment

kykNET: Documentary

Afrikaans feature film

Showmax: Any genre – the more out of the box, the better.

kykNET: Advertiser-funded programmes (AFP). In other words, programmes for which a sponsor covers the production costs.

Applications open on Monday 6 May 2024 and close on 14 June 2024. After the deadline, all applications will be evaluated by commissioning editors from M-Net’s various channels. The entrants of the top five concepts in each category will then be invited to present their concept in person at the Silwerskerm Festival to a panel of decision makers.

Who knows? Perhaps your story is ready to be sold.

To enter, as well as for the rules and guidelines, enter here.