Our short film program this year is a curation of submissions and selected works from Australian & New Zealand filmmakers.
TRUTH
Documentary | 2024 | World Premiere | Australia | 21 min | English no subtitles | Directed by Agnes Burrell
Synopsis
In a small town in northern New South Wales, Australia, Aunty Kathy’s journey to Brewarrina unravels a gripping tale of trauma, resilience, and hope. Truth delves into 200 years of Aboriginal history, shedding light on the ongoing struggle for treaty-making and reconciliation. As Kathy’s powerful narrative unfolds, it becomes a call to action against racism, urging us to confront the past and forge a better future.
BOTTLE MONEY
Short Film | Drama | 2023 | European Premiere | New Zealand | 14 min | English with English subtitles | Directed by Rebekah Tyler
Synopsis
As 16-year-old Nelson protects his siblings from the chaos of their unstable mum, he must decide: how much longer can he stand to love her?
FREEDOM FIGHTER
Short Film | Drama | 2023 | European Premiere | New Zealand | 16 min | English with English subtitles | Directed by Tusi Tamasese
Synopsis
There is no safe place to hide when the desire to dance calls Iuli’a, an overstayer, to choose between her own freedom and the safety of those she is responsible for.
SICK DAY
Short Film | Drama | 2023 | European Premiere | Australia | 11 min | English with English subtitles | Directed by Stephen Packer
Synopsis
On his first day home alone from school, ten-year-old Oliver accidentally stumbles upon his father's browsing history, and then must decide how to respond when his best friend Tati arrives to hang out.
ANASTASIS
Short Film | 2023 | European Premiere | Australia | 17 min | English with English subtitles | Directed by Lachlan Kramer, Henry West
Synopsis
A visual concept for Henry West's Visual album Anastasis. This film follows the story of rebirth and the innate mystery of divine intervention. Throughout the film you will hear the soundtrack from the EP written and composed by Henry West.
HEART THROB
Short Film | Drama | 2023 | European Premiere | Australia | 15 min | English with English subtitles | Directed by Greta Nash
Synopsis
In the summer after high school, aspiring social media star Gray spends his time making videos and working at the pizza shop with his longtime best friend Angelo. Gray feels a deep attraction and love for his best friend, but will it be able to withstand betrayal?
ROE
Short Film | Drama | 2023 | European Premiere | Australia | 5 min | English with English subtitles | Directed by Alison Stanton-Cook
Synopsis
ROE (Running On Empty) follows a teacher at an underfunded public school in Tasmania as she tries to establish boundaries with her students. ROE is a love letter to teachers everywhere and recognises how complex the role is; and how much we owe to those in this tough profession.
LOVE IS DEAD
Short Film | Drama | 2023 | European Premiere | New Zealand | 7 min | Directed by Dylan Poihipi
Synopsis
An evening drive through The Tunnel forces Yellow to face her relationship with Pink. She's confronted by Orange, Blue and The Light which help her come to terms with what she already knew.