Namibia Gains Independence
Namibia gained independence from South Africa, providing a new cultural and political landscape that would eventually foster the growth of the local film industry.
1990
1998
Namibian Film Commission Established
The Namibian Film Commission was established to promote and develop the film industry in Namibia, providing support and resources for local filmmakers.
2000
First Namibian Feature Film: "100 Bucks"
"100 Bucks," directed by Oshosheni Hiveluah, became one of the first feature films produced in Namibia, highlighting everyday life in Windhoek.
2004
Namibian Film Awards Introduced
The Namibian Film Awards were introduced to recognize and celebrate the achievements of Namibian filmmakers and their contributions to the industry.
2006
"Namibia: The Struggle for Liberation" Released
Directed by Charles Burnett, this film depicted the Namibian War of Independence and was one of the first major international films to focus on Namibian history.
2009
Namibian Film Week Launched
The Namibian Film Week was launched to showcase local films and provide a platform for filmmakers to network and collaborate.
2010
"My Beautiful Nightmare" Premieres
Directed by Perivi Katjavivi, "My Beautiful Nightmare" premiered, receiving acclaim for its unique storytelling and cinematography.
2012
Namibian Film Festival Inaugurated
The first Namibian Film Festival was held, celebrating Namibian cinema and providing a platform for local filmmakers to showcase their work.
2014
Afrinolly Short Film Competition Win
Namibian filmmaker Tim Huebschle won the Afrinolly Short Film Competition with his film "Dead River," gaining international recognition.
2015
"Katutura" Released
"Katutura," directed by Florian Schott, was released and became a significant film in Namibian cinema, depicting life in one of Windhoek's most infamous townships.
2017
Namibian Theatre and Film Awards
The Namibian Theatre and Film Awards were held, further recognizing the achievements of local filmmakers and actors in the industry.
2018
"The White Line" Premieres
"The White Line," directed by Desiree Kahikopo, premiered, telling a poignant story set during the apartheid era in Namibia.
2019
First Namibian Netflix Release
"Baxu and the Giants," a short film directed by Florian Schott, became the first Namibian film to be released on Netflix, reaching a global audience.
2020
Namibian Film Commission's Strategic Plan
The Namibian Film Commission launched a strategic plan to further develop the film industry, focusing on funding, training, and international collaborations.
2021
Namibian Film Industry During COVID-19
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Namibian film industry continued to produce content, with filmmakers adapting to new production methods.
2023
International Recognition for Namibian Films
Namibian films received increased international recognition at various film festivals, showcasing the talent and creativity of Namibian filmmakers.
