Lisbon screening opens global doors for young Eastern Cape filmmakers

A young filmmaking trio from the Eastern Cape are turning a 48-hour challenge into a growing international success story, after their award-winning short film,SA Confidential,earned them global recognition. Scriptwriter Muso Mzila, director Elona Mginqi and casting director Yongama Dangazele recently represented the Eastern Cape Institute of Film (Ecif) at the Filmapalooza Festival in Lisbon, Portugal, after winning top honours in the 48-Hour Film Project in Makhanda. Their film scooped Best Film, Best Director and Best Writer, placing them among the best emerging creatives on the international stage.

The thriller,SA Confidential, tells the gripping story of a corrupt detective who secretly lives a double life as a serial killer while pretending to investigate the very crimes he commits. As the plot unfolds, the detective discovers that his own partner is the mob boss he has been working with, adding another layer of suspense to the story. These awards were not just wins for our team, but a powerful affirmation of the creative excellence that exists within South Africa, particularly from regions that are too often overlooked Mginqi said the journey began as a bold challenge, but quickly became something much bigger for the team.

“In 2025, our team embarked on an extraordinary journey that would not only elevate our craft but also place our voices on an international stage,” Mginqi said. “Entering the 48-Hour Film Project was a challenge, especially because we are a group of females, but we embraced it with passion, resilience and an unwavering belief in our story.” She said winning multiple awards was a defining moment for the team and for the Eastern Cape’s creative industry. “These awards were not just wins for our team, but a powerful affirmation of the creative excellence that exists within South Africa, particularly from regions that are too often overlooked,” she said. Only Mginqi and Mzila travelled to Lisbon to represent the three-member team, while Dangazele, who is the casting director, remained at home.