CinefestOZ Albany wrapped up last week!
The program offered up a range of film screenings, In Conversation events and the Indigenous themed Gala Night.
The festival kicked off with an Indigenous Welcome followed by a VIP afternoon tea. Come Night time, Orana Cinemas was all dressed up for Opening Night which featured uplifting comedy, How To Please A Woman. Young actress Allegra Teo from The Curious Case of Dolphin Bay rocked the red carpet.
The next morning patrons were treated to the In-Conversation Event for the film, giving those who had watched the night before, a glimpse into the minds behind the movie. Producers Judi Levine and Tania Chambers alongside Actress Caroline Brazier drew attendees in and left them inspired.
There was certainly no shortage of quality filmmaking advice, with the Industry Panel next up on the itinerary. Indigenous Stories On Screen saw Actor Kelton Pell and Filmmakers Karla Hart and Jodie Bell come together. Following on was Creating Local & Going Global with Film distributer Ian Hale, Writer Adam Morris and Editor Talarah Pedrocchi Roelofs on their film Edward and Isabella. To finish up, a Meet the Producers Panel with Screenwest Head of Creative: Content & Industry Development, Martha Coleman, Producers Tania Chambers, Judi Levine, Melissa Kelly and Joe Weatherstone.
As night fell, Orana Cinemas was bustling once again for the I Met A Girl Premiere. One of the stars from the film, well known actor and comedian Peter Rowsthorn appeared as a special guest. Survivor star and model David Genat was also seen working it for the cameras. Also on was Spectacular Shorts with special guests Jay Jay Jegathesan and Radheya Jegatheva, whose film Pacing The Pool played in this category.
On Saturday, Kinjarling Koort ran from morning to afternoon with a range of Indigenous stalls, screenings, film activities and a sparkling performance by Karla Hart and her Indigenous dance crew.
At Orana Cinema, Allegra Teo did a Q&A alongside the screening of her film.
Following on was the In Conversation Lunch, another intriguing talk with Kelton Pell, Karla Hart and Jodie Bell at picturesque restaurant Garrison. Fascinating discussion and incredible local produce was served up.
A range of school visits and virtual workshops took place throughout the festival which engaged the students.
On Saturday evening the magical Gala Night unfolded. Guests were all glammed up for the occasion. The Deadly Indigenous Shorts did not disappoint: The Moogai, On My Father’s Country, The Lost Crystals of Jessica’s Room and Tooly were all different yet equally insightful.
The fun went on with the afterparty, a chance to show off moves and mingle with celebrities. DJ Emma kept the tunes going and lured guests to the dancefloor.
An unforgettable production, CinefestOZ Albany was a hit.
Thank you to City of Albany, Lotterywest, Screenwest, Rio Tinto, and Regional Arts WA along with all of our other amazing Partners who made CinefestOZ Albany possible.