Hollywood African Cinema Connection celebrates African films, innovation & industry collaboration

CapeTalk’s Sara-Jayne Makwala King is joined by Weaam Williams, Founder and Creative Director of Hollywood African Cinema Connection.

Listen to their conversation in the audio clip below.

The Hollywood African Cinema Connection is set to take place in Cape Town from 11 to 14 April. 

This South African-founded festival highlights a diverse array of films, showcasing the rich tapestry of African cinema to a global audience.

"It's a really incredible slate of films that we're showcasing." 

- Weaam Williams, Founder and Creative Director of Hollywood African Cinema Connection

2025 marks the festival's second edition, following a highly successful inaugural event in Los Angeles last year. 

That gathering not only celebrated African films but also facilitated vital networking opportunities.

"While there are so many issues with American politics at the moment, which we do acknowledge, we also have to acknowledge that Hollywood has set the standard for film making and there is a lot that we can learn from them."

- Weaam Williams, Founder and Creative Director of Hollywood African Cinema Connection

The festival aims to bridge the gap between African and American filmmakers, exploring innovative industry advancements such as blockchain technology and artificial intelligence (AI). 

These tools have the potential to revolutionise how films are produced and financed.

"Firstly, it is the promotion of African film, secondly, generating income for African filmmakers, thirdly, it's to fund African films using blockchain and cryptocurrency. One of the reasons why I am in this space is because of the nepotism and corruption I have experienced personally as a filmmaker."  

- Weaam Williams, Founder and Creative Director of Hollywood African Cinema Connection

Click here for more information about the festival and to purchase tickets.

Scroll up to listen to the full conversation