No longer are documentaries confined to Sunday slots on television. It's been turned up a notch to provide you with a riveting cinematic experience. If you're heading to the shores of Cape Town, then don't miss out on the Encounters International Documentary Festival - just in from Jozi!

The festival began in 1999 and is turning ten this year! Encounters is all about creating a platform to showcase both local and international films. With a selection of over 49 titles, more than half being local, you’ll be spoilt for choice!

Let’s narrow it down to what’s right up your alley. There’s the theme of The Extreme and the Extraordinary. So think of doccies that deal with human experience.

Topics include human rights, politics, the environment, art, sport, relationships and women in Africa. As the theme suggests, you can also enjoy films that showcase eccentric and extraordinary people and the unusual things they do!

A core issue such as the horror of HIV/AIDS is explored in the film Angels in the Dust. Over the Hill communicates the fad of ‘nip n tuck’. It demonstrates the unrealistic standards of beauty. You’ll ask yourself, is that make-up, make-over or make-believe?!

If music’s more your thing, then check out documentaries in the category of music. Here you’ll look at various genres of music. These range from Hip Hop in Cameroon and South Africa to classical music.

Discover the history behind famous UK based group, Joy Division. It’s titled Joy Division and is directed by Grant Dee. There are even stories centred on specific instruments such as the Steinway grand piano. This one’s by Ben Niles called Note by Note: The making of Steinway.

Another must-see short African film is Mbira’ My Music My Love. The story follows the clash between western music and traditional values in Zimbabwe.

It’s likely that you’ll find documentaries just as entertaining as Hollywood!

Encounters South African International Documentary Festival 2008, Johannesburg: Nu Metro Hyde Park from the 19 – 29 June.
Nu Metro, V&A Waterfront, 3 – 13 July.

Visit Encounters for further info and to book.

 Cape Town will you get you rocking with these doccies. Check out these awesome packages.

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