By Peter Douglas
THE Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) is delighted to be presenting four of its most exciting films at the Cameo Theatre in Belgrave on Friday, 14 October.
In a first for the region, MIFF has included the popular Belgrave attraction as part of its regional tour, with the MIFF Travelling Showcase aiming to support both international and Australian-made works.
MIFF Artistic Director, Michelle Carey, told the ‘Mail’ she expected the films would generate plenty of interest locally.
“You can go to a multiplex at any time, but to see this at a historic site such as the Cameo is a unique experience,” she said.
“Two out of the four films are documentaries … most are uplifting in their own way.”
Included at the Belgrave tour are ‘The Death and Life of Otto Bloom’, ‘Ella’ and ‘Long Way North’.
But one which will be of particular interest includes a film that brings to life a dark passage in the history of Ferny Creek.
The documentary ‘The Family’ turned the heads of film critics after its debut at the MIFF and will feature at Belgrave.
The feature-length film focuses on the sect known as The Family, which operated mostly out of the Lake Eildon area from a house on Belgrave-Ferny Creek Road throughout the ’60s and ’70s.
Ms Carey said there were international representatives in the industry who were taking real notice of this film.
“We weren’t sure how it was going to be received, but it’s being talked about,” she said.
“It’s moving and emotional, but is also a story of resilience.
“Many of those affected, including one of the lead investigators, were present at the film, in what was a truly moving moment.
“The first screening was incredible.
“There was a standing ovation and it was a real drop-dead moving moment.”
Meanwhile, ‘Ella’ showcases the personal journey of the Australian Ballet’s first Indigenous dancer, Ella Havelka.
‘The Death and Life of Otto Bloom’ features acclaimed actor Rachel Ward (‘The Thorn Birds’), her daughter Matilda Brown and Xavier Samuel (the ‘Twilight’ series); while ‘Long Way North’ is described as a beautifully animated film suitable for all ages and audiences.
For more information, visit www.cameocinemas.com.au or contact (03) 9754 7844.
