The European Union has once again brought the magic of cinema to Namibia through the EU Film Festival, showcasing local and European talent.

This year, three Namibian films will be showcased alongside nine European productions from countries like Denmark, Spain, Germany, France, Italy, Portugal, Austria, Finland and the EU delegation.

Among the highlights is a Namibian short film, titled Snare.

It was directed and produced by Leon Mubiana. 

The 27-minute film shares the emotional story of Tracey, a young woman caught in the dangerous web of a human trafficking syndicate. 

As she fights to resist the criminals’ demands, she is forced to make impossible choices under threats and pressure.

“Snare is about losing control of your life. It explores the emotions and complexities of being trapped, and how easily someone’s freedom can be taken away by those who see no value in life,” Mubiana said.

Shot in 2022, the film was screened at Namibia’s Film Week in 2024, where it earned an honourable mention at the Africa USA International Film Festival. 

However, Snare still has not had its official solo release. 

Mubiana said the response from Film Week was amazing. 

“The performances were strong, and the whole crew gave their best. Many viewers said the story was unexpected. That’s exactly the kind of reaction I hoped for,” he said. 

He believes Namibians crave local content. 

“People want to watch stories they can relate to. The only problem is that we lack sufficient distribution channels for our films to the public. That’s something we need to work on,” he said. 

Mubiana is a lecturer at the College of the Arts, where he mentors students on their final projects. 

“It’s important to help grow the next generation of filmmakers,” he said. 

In 2024, he released his first TV feature, Lubinda, through the Multichoice Ombura project.

Although he is already developing new ideas and collaborations, Mubiana said it is too early to share details. 

However, with talent like his, the future of Namibian film appears promising. 

Over the years, the festival has evolved into a distinctive cultural hub, where European and Namibian cinema unite, promoting dialogue, inspiration and discovery.

Running from 3 September to 29 October, the festival will showcase nine outstanding European films every Wednesday night at Ster Kinekor Cinema, Maerua Mall. 

This year’s edition wraps up with two Namibian productions, followed by a panel discussion that brings together local voices and perspectives with European storytelling. 

A first for the festival, there will be a kids’ screening on 4 October, to introduce Namibia’s youngest audiences to the world of cinema and European storytelling.

The festival will kick off with Miss Viborg, an acclaimed Danish comedy-drama that explores resilience, friendship and intergenerational connections. 

The 2025 festival is held under the theme “Opportunities for Youth,” reflecting the EU’s belief in young people as drivers of change. 

The festival also continues its support of Kino Namibia, an initiative of the Namibia Film Commission that empowers young filmmakers. 

More entertainment

In October, the EU-funded Cell-Phone Video Workshop returns, this time in Windhoek, demonstrating that powerful cinema can be created with just a phone and a vision. 

Following its success in Oshakati, Keetmanshoop and Swakopmund last year, the workshop continues to be a vital part of the EU’s effort to develop youth skills.

Speaking at the launch, Ian Dupont, EU deputy head of mission to Namibia, said, “The EU Film Festival is about much more than films. It is about stories that connect us, bridge cultures and remind us of our shared humanity. We are particularly proud to spotlight youth through this year’s programme because we believe young people are not only tomorrow’s storytellers but also today’s change-makers. Film is a powerful way to give them a voice and a platform”.

The Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology, through the Namibia Film Commission, Namibian Filmmakers Association and Jam Events, also plays an essential role in bringing the festival to life.

Last year, the festival welcomed over 2 000 guests. This year, to reach even more audiences, all films will be shown in the cinema’s largest theatre. 

-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na