Encounters South African International Documentary Festival is bringing one of 2024’s most talked-about documentaries, Ernest Cole: Lost and Found, to Cape Town for a special one-night-only screening on March 20, 2025, at The Labia Theatre—the eve of Human Rights Day.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Raoul Peck (I Am Not Your Negro), the film explores the extraordinary life of Ernest Cole, one of South Africa’s most fearless anti-apartheid photographers. Cole’s raw and unfiltered images captured the brutal realities of apartheid, exposing its horrors to the world. But after fleeing into exile, much of his work was lost—until now.
Narrated by LaKeith Stanfield, the film connects Cole’s journey to the broader African American experience, drawing parallels between racial oppression in South Africa and the U.S. It’s a deeply moving cinematic tribute to a man who risked everything to tell the truth.
“It is fitting that we screen this film on the eve of both Human Rights Day and what would have been Ernest Cole’s 85th birthday,” says Mandisa Zitha, Director of Encounters. “His images spoke truth to power, and this documentary ensures his legacy continues to inspire future generations.”
Winner of the L’Œil d’or prize at Cannes and praised by critics with 95% positive reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, Ernest Cole: Lost and Found is a must-see for anyone passionate about history, justice, and the power of photography.
📅 Date: Thursday, 20 March 2025
⏰ Time: 18:00
📍 Venue: The Labia Theatre, Cape Town
🎟 Tickets: Available via Webtickets
This special Cape Town screening is presented by Encounters South African International Documentary Festival, in partnership with Africa Entertainment in America and Known Associates Group.
🎥 Watch the trailer:
