Imran Hamdulay

South African writer and director Imran Hamdulay is a Berlinale Talents alumni & Film Independent Global Media Makers fellow. He was featured on CNN as one of Africa’s directors to watch and recently in GQ’s Young & Gifted Series. His debut feature, The Heart Is a Muscle, premiered at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival going on to win the Panorama Independent Jury award. On its South African premiere the film won Best Film & Best Score at Silwerskermfees and the film was recently selected as South Africa’s official submission to the 2026 Academy Awards in the International Feature category—a recognition that underscores his commitment to stories that carry both local roots and global resonance. His screenplays have featured at various international markets, working with institutions including Cannes Marche du Film, EAVE, IFFR Lab, Gotham Film Week & the Red Sea Film Fund amongst others. While his short films have played internationally winning multiple awards. Imran also co-wrote and produced the feature crime-thriller Sons of the Sea premiering at Cinequest (USA). The film went on to win Best Feature Film at the 43rd Durban International Film Festival. Coming from a family of writers and activists has shaped Hamdulay’s perspective and inclusive approach to filmmaking, grounding his work in both a sense of community and a drive to tell stories that travel widely and connect with audiences everywhere.