M-Net is looking to produce a range of new local South African films in all languages and is calling in South African filmmakers to submit their original ideas for contemporary stories in various genres.
In the past three years, M-Net that is celebrating its 30th anniversary this month, has backed more than 40 theatrical feature films under the M-Net Movies, Mzansi Magic and kykNET Films banners, including Happiness is a Four Letter Word and Vir Altyd.
"Movies have been the heartbeat of our business right from the start," says Yolisa Phahle, M-Net CEO.
"Through the years we committed ourselves to develop and boost our own film industry - first with initiatives like the New Directions and EDiT short films project and more recently by supporting an increasing number of authentic local feature films - both financially and creatively."
"We are incredibly proud of the slate of films linked to our stable and it's encouraging to know that plenty of these beautifully made movies have been the work of first-time directors or screenwriters," says Yolisa Phahle.
"In our quest to continue to add value to the local film landscape, we identified some gaps. Hence the decision to give local movie makers another opportunity to pitch their ideas for great new films."
"This is a fantastic opportunity for new filmmakers to break into the industry or for veterans to get the green light for their next big film."
M-Net is now specifically looking for feature films in certain comedy and action sub-genres, as well as films based on successful vernacular novels that can be adapted for cinema.
kykNET Films is also planning to create and develop a Cape-based romantic comedy or family saga in Afri-kaaps.
In the action genre M-Net is inviting proposals for suspense thrillers and adventure stories.
No matter what the genre is, the stories should be authentically South African, reflecting the country's current reality and be void of sensationalism and cultural stereotypes.
M-Net also wants to see pitches that demonstrate a keen understanding of the specific film genre and the music should be reflective of the story and include as many relevant South African music tracks as possible.
The closing date for submissions is Monday 14 November 2016 and must be done through M-Net's corporate website here
