Johannesburg transformed into a vibrant cinematic playground on opening night as film enthusiasts, esteemed filmmakers, and prominent personalities gathered for the 7th edition of the Joburg Film Festival.

The event, hosted by the dynamic Nomalanga Shozi, featured a stellar lineup of luminaries, highlighted by the world premiere of the much-anticipated documentary Ernest Cole: Lost and Found.

This poignant film, which had previously commanded attention at the renowned Cannes Film Festival, where it won the award for Best Documentary, explores the life of one of South Africa's most influential photographers, Ernest Cole.

Known for his groundbreaking work during the dark era of apartheid, Cole's striking images reveal the harsh realities faced by ordinary South Africans.

In a compelling tribute to Cole's legacy, director Raoul Peck, an internationally acclaimed filmmaker and Oscar nominee known for works such as Lumumba and I Am Not Your Negro, was in attendance, much to the excitement of the festival-goers.

The documentary not only highlights Cole’s exceptional body of work but also sheds light on his tragic and untimely death whilst in exile.

“This feature explores not only Cole’s incredible body of work but also his tragic and untimely death whilst in exile at the age of 49,” said Nhlanhla Ndaba, the festival curator.

“With exclusive access to his photos and a profound exploration of his legacy, this documentary serves as a long-awaited homecoming for a man whose dream was always to return to South Africa.”

The night also honoured the remarkable life of Cole, highlighting the essential role of storytelling in cinema.

Despite the overwhelming odds, Cole used his camera as a powerful tool for social change, documenting the experiences of individuals living under an oppressive regime. His photographs are respected as some of the most significant visual records from that turbulent time.

A collection of Cole's work, long hidden away in a bank vault in Sweden and unknown to the world, has recently been returned to his family.

A selection of these extraordinary images is currently showcased at the Goodman Gallery in Cape Town, providing an immersive glimpse into Cole’s artistic vision and the socio-political context of his time.