A Feast of Film for All This Summer

By Siriol Dafydd on December 31, 2018 in News

Christmas movies are undoubtedly awesome. But if you over-did it on elves, reindeer and gooey stories unfolding in snowy settings this festive season, you’re probably ready for a change.

So for those of you looking for new and exciting films to watch, here’s a quick guide on how to get your culture fix over the next few months.

Let’s start with Flickerfest. Running from January 11 to 20, this short film festival will transform Bondi into a hub of culture, talent and fascinating stories. This year’s record 2700 entries from over 100 countries has been whittled down to the best and most creative 200 films, which will be showcased in Australia’s only Academy®TM accredited and BAFTA recognised short film festival.

From categories like Flick- erKids for families and Rainbow Shorts featuring LGBTIQ+ stories, to comedies in the Short Laughs category and juicy relationship sagas under the Love Bites umbrella, there’s a style, genre and story for everyone in this year’s festival. And if you’re interested in uncovering up-and- coming talent, the FlickerUp National Youth Competition for talented Australian filmmakers under 18 is definitely worth a look.

The diverse program includes films from all over the world as well as some fabulous home grown Aussie talent. Key highlights in this year’s program include the premiere of Desert Dash. Written, directed and starring Gracie Otto, this wonderful film takes a new and somewhat twisted look at life in the Aussie outback. Bondilocal, Flickerfest veteran and international award winner Paul McDermott is also back this year with the Australian premiere of The Ghost Bear, a moving and thought-provoking animation for kids.

Believe it or not, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. For a look at the full festival line-up or to buy tickets, please head to the official website at www.flickerfest.com.au.

Film buffs can also see fresh stories from new talent at this year’s Tropfest on Saturday, February 9 in Centennial… oops, sorry… Parramatta Park. Or for cinematic delights closer to home, you can enjoy the Sydney Short Film Festival at Randwick’s Ritz Cinema on February 5. Because seriously, who in their right mind leaves the Eastern Beaches of their own volition any time after November?

If you prefer blockbusters and Hollywood glam to artsy shorts, St George OpenAir Cinema returns to Mrs Macquarie’s Point from January 8 to February 16 with a plethora of awesome films. This year’s 39-night run will feature no less than 16 premieres and preview screenings including the Australian premiere of historical drama Mary Queen of Scots starring Margot Robbie.

If you can’t be bothered to traipse into the city, you can always dodge bat droppings whilst enjoying one of Moonlight Cinema’s many offerings in Centennial Park instead. It opened on November 29 and runs until March 31, with a program covering all sorts of movies from Storm Boy and Smallfoot to Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes Of Grindlewald and Mortal Engines. For details on the full program, visit www.moonlight.com.au.

So there you have it Beast read- ers. Whether you want to support new talent and hobnob with artsy industry types, or simply kick back with a beer and some popcorn whilst watching Keira Knightley miraculously disguise the fact that she can’t actually act, there’s a film for everyone in Sydney this summer!