AFDA is proud to announce that its alumni have once again excelled at the prestigious Silwerskermfees 2025, walking away with top honours in film, acting, and editing categories.
Best Feature Film was awarded to The Heart Is a Muscle, produced by AFDA alumni Adam Thal (Executive Producer) and Brett Michael Innes (Producer) and with Keenan Arrison playing the lead role. My F*ck, Marelize!, produced by Brett walked away with the title as Audience Festival Favourite Film. Their achievement highlights the continued impact of AFDA graduates in shaping South Africa’s film industry.
In performance, Justin Strydom received the award for Best Actor in a Telenovela or Soap for his powerful role in Diepe waters, while Regardt Visser was recognised with Best Editing in a Short Film for his work on Totsiens, Selina.
“These awards are a testament to the talent, hard work, and dedication of our alumni,” says AFDA Public Relations Officer, Earle Holmes. “We are very proud of their achievements and the inspiration they provide to future generations of South African filmmakers and storytellers.”
Now in its 13th year, the Silwerskermfees continues to celebrate original South African stories. Hosted annually in the picturesque Camps Bay, the festival not only premieres groundbreaking feature films but also nurtures new voices through its renowned short film programme. With mentorship, financial support, and industry panels, the event fosters a creative space for both established and emerging filmmakers.
Beyond screenings, the festival programme features panel discussions, workshops, and international masterclasses. The Silwermark content mart offers filmmakers the opportunity to pitch ideas directly to kykNET and Showmax, while community screenings bring the magic of cinema to underserved neighbourhoods in Cape Town.
AFDA congratulates all the winners on their success at Silwerskermfees 2025.