The prestigious Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) has announced its comprehensive program for 2024, promising a vibrant celebration of cinema from August 8-25. This year, the festival will showcase more than 250 features, shorts, and XR experiences at various venues across Melbourne, Victoria, and online. Melbourne International Film Festival Unveils 2024 Program
A standout feature of the 2024 lineup is the emphasis on Indigenous films and documentaries, with four notable works highlighted:
Like My Brother
World Premiere
“Like My Brother,” co-directed by Danielle MacLean and Sal Balharrie, is a poignant documentary following the journey of four young women from the Tiwi Islands who aspire to become professional AFLW football players. The film delves into the challenges they face, such as leaving behind their families, coping with homesickness, and confronting the obstacles that often hinder the success of Indigenous youth.
Voice
World Premiere
Directed by Krunal Padhiar and co-directed by Semara Jose, “Voice” offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Indigenous-led group Deadly Inspiring Youth Doing Good (DIYDG). The documentary captures their 3,000-kilometre journey across the country to rally support for the Indigenous Voice to Parliament. This groundbreaking film portrays the journey of last year’s Voice referendum, highlighting the resilience and determination of the group.Image: supplied
Kajoo Yannaga (Come, let us walk together)
Digital Art Experience
“Kajoo Yannaga” (Come, let us walk together), directed by April Phillips, is a mesmerizing digital art experience presented by Now or Never and ACMI. This immersive two-channel projection journey is guided by First Nations knowledge, mapping body movement in real-time to connect viewers to place and transport them to a vivid Spirit realm filled with signs and signals. Phillips, a Wiradjuri-Scottish artist from the galari/kalari peoples of the Yuin Nation, celebrates First Nations futurism, intergenerational healing, and digital experimentation through this project.Image: City of Melbourne
The Moogai
Feature Film
Jon Bell makes his directorial debut with “The Moogai,” expanding on his acclaimed 2020 short film. Known for his work on TV series like Redfern Now, Cleverman, and Mystery Road, Bell’s feature film continues the story with powerful performances from Shari Sebbens and Meyne Wyatt, who reprise their roles from the original short. The short film received praise at MIFF and SXSW, winning the Jury Prize for Midnight Shorts at the latter and earning a nomination for Best Short Film at the AACTA Awards. “The Moogai” is filled with deep symbolism and continues to explore themes of Indigenous identity and resilience.
The Melbourne International Film Festival 2024 is set to be a remarkable event, offering a diverse range of cinematic experiences that celebrate Indigenous voices and stories. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in these powerful narratives from August 8-25.
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