African Jim + Discussion (1949)

A restored landmark of Black South African cinema is followed by a participatory discussion led by film curator Mosa Mpetha.

Also known as Jim Comes to Jo’burg, the 1949 film follows a young man who leaves his rural home for Johannesburg and finds an opportunity through music. Dolly Rathebe makes her screen debut as nightclub singer Dolly, and the film features appearances by The African Inkspots. Its musical energy sits alongside a complex historical portrayal of migration and Black life in South Africa.

This Black History Month screening presents a 4K restoration by R3store Studios, funded by the National Gallery of Canada with thanks to Villon Films. Afterwards, curator Mosa Mpetha leads a participatory discussion about the film’s creation, context and legacy. Doors open at 18:30 for a 19:00 screening, with no adverts or trailers. Film certificate: U.