AFDA proudly celebrates alumnus Desmond Denton following the selection of his feature film Protea for the Official Competition section of the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF) 2026. The film has been selected as part of the festival’s prestigious Feature Films in Competition programme, placing it among the most outstanding South African and international feature films screening at this year’s event.
As one of Africa’s leading film festivals, the Durban International Film Festival provides an important platform for filmmakers to showcase powerful stories, connect with industry professionals, and engage audiences from around the world. Selection into the Feature Film Competition is a significant achievement and recognition of excellence in filmmaking.
Protea, directed by Desmond Denton, continues the AFDA alumnus’s growing contribution to the South African film industry. The film has attracted attention for its compelling storytelling and cinematic vision, earning a coveted place in the festival’s competitive line-up. Protea is the Afrikaans adaptation of Spelonk and will have the opportunity to be experienced by festival audiences and industry stakeholders during DIFF 2026.
The selection highlights the calibre of AFDA graduates who continue to make their mark across the local and international screen industries. Denton’s achievement reflects the dedication, creativity, and professional excellence that AFDA alumni bring to the world of filmmaking.
AFDA congratulates Desmond Denton and the entire Protea team on this remarkable accomplishment and wishes them every success at the Durban International Film Festival 2026.