South African Animated Film 'David' Highlights Growing Local Film Industry

The Making of 'David'

• 🎬 The animated film 'David' retells the biblical story of David's battle against Goliath, with production spanning over a decade and involving extensive research, including four trips to Israel for authenticity.
• 🌍 The project drew talent from around the globe, with individuals leaving major studios like Pixar, Disney, and DreamWorks to join, working both remotely and from Cape Town.
• 💰 The South African studio behind 'David' raised over $3 million in pre-sales, demonstrating a journey of faith and incremental funding to bring the animation to life.

Growth of South African Cinema

• 🚀 The success of 'David' is presented as proof of the burgeoning South African cinema industry, with its animation sector being the most advanced on the continent.
• 💡 Technological advancements are lowering competition barriers, creating opportunities for Africa to produce globally resonant stories.
• 📈 An animation school and annual festival actively showcase young talent, fostering the next generation of filmmakers.

Challenges and Global Appeal

• 🌟 One animator started her own studio out of necessity due to a lack of job opportunities, growing a team of 10 over eight years.
• 📣 The need for audience engagement is crucial to demonstrate the global appeal of South African-created animation to the international market.
• 🌍 'David' has premiered in South African and American cinemas, with international releases planned from March of the following year.