Following Cannes Win for Iranian Director Jafar Panahi, Upcoming Aussie Film “Fireworks” Issues a Powerful Warning

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Photo Credit: Julia Firak

As global interest in Iranian stories surges, Fireworks explores trauma, exile, and the fragility of justice, made in Australia but resonating worldwide.

Just days after Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi’s It Was Just An Accident won the Palme d’Or at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, a new Australian-made feature is building momentum — inspired by the global recognition of Iranian cinema as not just political, but universal.

Fireworks, directed and co-written by Ali Vaziri, an Iranian-born filmmaker living in Australia, is a bold psychological drama rooted in real refugee experience. “Panahi’s win is a turning point,” says Vaziri. “It tells us something important: these stories are not just about Iran anymore — they’re about all of us. The same threats to truth, freedom, and justice are creeping closer to home in the West. Fireworks is my way of sounding the alarm.”

Photo Credit: Julia Firak

Set in a remote Australian town, Fireworks follows two close friends — both former political refugees — whose quiet life unravels during a weekend celebration when the past reappears in the form of a suspected war criminal. Over one day, in one house, tension builds toward an unthinkable moral choice.

It’s a film about trauma, complicity, loyalty and vengeance — but it’s also a film about how fragile peace really is, even in countries like Australia. With authentic Farsi and English dialogue and a minimalist, intimate setting, Fireworks delivers a contained but emotionally explosive story.

The cast features a talented ensemble of Iranian-Australian actors, including Keivaan Askari, Rina Mousavi, Madi Dezhbod, and Baha Jamali — Keivaan and Rina were involved in the critically acclaimed Australian-Iranian feature Shayda, Australia’s critically acclaimed entry to Sundance and the Academy Awards.

The film is produced by Yolandi Franken (Streets of Colour, Carmen & Bolude), and co-written by Nick Bleszynski, known for his work in both narrative and investigative storytelling. Filming will take place in Wiseman’s Ferry, NSW — a regional town whose quiet natural beauty mirrors the story’s haunting emotional undercurrent.

Photo Credit: Julia Firak

“This isn’t just a story about Iran. It’s a warning,” says Franken. “The erosion of truth, the silencing of dissent, the moral collapse that begins with looking away — these are themes that now ring loud in Western democracies.”

With the Cannes spotlight now firmly on Iranian voices and stories of resistance, Fireworks arrives at exactly the right moment — as a uniquely Australian contribution to a global conversation.

The film is currently seeking final-stage investment and community partnerships ahead of production later this year, with plans for international festival submission and a theatrical release followed by digital and broadcast distribution.

To request an investor pack or partnership proposal:

Yolandi Franken
Producer – Fireworks
yolandi@frankendipity.com
0404 385 988

Ryan Reynolds Champions Nature’s Misfits in Hilarious New Docuseries Underdogs

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Move over, lions and penguins — it’s time for the oddballs to shine.

Ryan Reynolds is swapping Deadpool’s red suit for something a bit more khaki as he lends his voice to Underdogs, a new five-part docuseries celebrating the natural world’s unsung heroes. Premiering 16 June on Disney+, the series is a joint effort from Reynolds’ Emmy® Award-winning Maximum Effort and Wildstar Films, the BAFTA and Emmy® Award-winning team behind some of the world’s most stunning wildlife documentaries.

But don’t expect your usual slow-motion lion pounce or majestic whale breach. This time, the spotlight belongs to nature’s Z-listers — the awkward, underrated, and often overlooked creatures who prove that survival doesn’t require good looks or graceful moves, just pure ingenuity and a whole lot of hustle.

Narrated with Reynolds’ Signature Wit

Reynolds, known for his razor-sharp humour, is the perfect guide through this wild world of unlikely legends. Underdogs dives headfirst into the fascinating (and frequently gross) lives of animals that typically don’t get the red carpet treatment. Think glow-in-the-dark butt-grubs in a cave in New Zealand, bizarre mating rituals, and some of the most questionable parenting strategies ever caught on camera.

“Getting to work with National Geographic on Underdogs was a dream come true,” said Reynolds. “Mostly because I can finally watch a project of ours with my children. Technically, they saw Deadpool & Wolverine but I don’t think they absorbed much while covering their eyes and ears and screaming for two hours.”

Each episode of Underdogs focuses on a different wild skillset — from strange superpowers to deceptive trickery, all the way to survival techniques that would make Bear Grylls think twice.

A Feast for the Eyes (and Ears)

The show features mind-blowing footage from the world’s top wildlife cinematographers, including scenes that have never been filmed before. One highlight? A glowing cave full of mucus-covered larvae that light up like a dodgy nightclub under UV lights. It’s gross. It’s mesmerising. It’s everything a nature doc should be.

On top of the visuals, the soundtrack absolutely slaps. Award-winning composer Harry Gregson-Williams (you know, from Shrek and The Martian) scores the series, while Green Day delivers the official theme song — fittingly titled “Underdog”. The song debuts in the official trailer, roaring like a wild anthem for every creature who’s ever felt like they were picked last for team sports.

The soundtrack, Underdogs (Original Series Soundtrack), drops on 13 June via Hollywood Records. And if you’re a fan of Green Day, you’ll be glad to know the track is also featured on the deluxe edition of their latest album, Saviors.

More Than Laughs — It’s Clever Science Too

While Underdogs has plenty of cheeky moments, it’s not all for laughs. The series highlights the resilience, intelligence and mind-blowing adaptations of animals that keep the ecosystem ticking. Forget fame — these critters are the real MVPs of the natural world.

So, whether you’re a nature nerd, a Green Day fan, or just in it for Ryan Reynolds’ running commentary on butt-glow worms, Underdogs is set to be a wild ride.

📺 Underdogs premieres **16 June on Disney+_.

Bring your curiosity. Maybe not your lunch.

A Complete Unknown: Timothée Chalamet Electrifies as Bob Dylan in Award-Winning Biopic – Now Streaming on Disney+

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Searchlight Pictures’ critically acclaimed biopic A Complete Unknown is now available to stream on Disney+, bringing the transformative early years of music legend Bob Dylan to life in a gripping, cinematic masterpiece.

Directed by Academy Award® nominee James Mangold, the film dives deep into the turbulent yet inspiring cultural landscape of 1960s America. At its heart is a mesmerising performance by Timothée Chalamet, who not only portrays Dylan with uncanny intensity but also performs his music, capturing the spirit and sound of the folk icon’s rise to fame.

Certified Fresh and dubbed “Certified Hot” by Rotten Tomatoes™, A Complete Unknown has already generated major awards buzz. The Hollywood Reporter hailed Chalamet’s portrayal as “an electrifying, transformative performance,” cementing his place as one of the most versatile actors of his generation.

🎬 Film Synopsis

New York, 1961. A 19-year-old musician from Minnesota arrives in the heart of Greenwich Village—a place pulsing with poetry, protest, and possibility. With little more than a guitar and a voice that would come to define a generation, Bob Dylan finds himself surrounded by folk legends like Woody Guthrie (Scoot McNairy), Joan Baez (Monica Barbaro), and Pete Seeger (Edward Norton). These relationships—and a daring leap into electric sound—spark a musical revolution that forever alters the global landscape.

The film culminates in Dylan’s now-iconic Newport Folk Festival performance, where his electrified set stunned audiences and marked a seismic shift in modern music history.

🌟 A Stellar Cast

Joining Chalamet in this compelling ensemble are:

Edward Norton as Pete Seeger
Elle Fanning as Sylvie Russo
Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez
Boyd Holbrook as Johnny Cash
Scoot McNairy as Woody Guthrie

🎥 Behind the Scenes

A Complete Unknown is co-written by James Mangold and Jay Cocks, and produced by a powerhouse team including Fred Berger, Alex Heineman, Bob Bookman, Peter Jaysen, Alan Gasmer, Jeff Rosen, and Chalamet himself.

Whether you’re a lifelong Dylan fan or discovering his story for the first time, A Complete Unknown is a must-watch for lovers of music, history, and masterful storytelling.

👉 Now streaming exclusively on Disney+.

Heartfelt Film ‘My Eyes’ to Make Emotional Australian Debut on May 28, 2025

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FanForce Films proudly announces the theatrical release of MY EYES on May 28, 2025. Inspired by true events and led by actor/writer/producer Tsu Shan Chambers (SUKA, UNSOUND), this heartfelt Australian story spotlights the remarkable journey of a mother determined to save her daughter’s eyesight—and the broader social impact of living with vision impairment.

MY EYES follows Alana (Chambers), an Optometrist whose life is upended when her young daughter is diagnosed with a hereditary eye condition. Desperate for a stem cell donor, Alana must confront her past—and a life-changing connection to Nico (Eduardo Ávila Sánchez), setting in motion a story of family, cultural identity, and resilience. Adam Garcia (COYOTE UGLY, BOOTMEN) portrays Alana’s devoted husband Sam, and Kieu Chinh (THE JOY LUCK CLUB, THE SYMPATHIZER) appears as Alana’s protective mother.

Produced by Wise Goat Productions in collaboration with an international and diverse creative team, MY EYES highlights social change through its authentic depiction of the vision-impaired community and the power of inclusive storytelling. The film has attracted support from organisations including Vision Australia, the International Blind Sports Federation, Optometry Australia, and many other social impact partners. Premiere fundraisers across Australia—tied to the film’s opening week—will help generate awareness and funds for eye health advocacy and disability inclusion initiatives.

Quote from Tsu Shan Chambers (Actor, Writer, Producer, and Practicing Optometrist):

“MY EYES is deeply personal to me—growing up with multiple cultural influences, training as an Optometrist, and experiencing close connections with people aﬀected by vision loss. It’s a story I’ve wanted to share for years, and I’m overjoyed to finally bring it to audiences in a way that sparks empathy and positive change.

As an independent producer, it is important to me to be able to bring to the screen an authentic local story that will take Australian culture and values to a global audience. We have so many stories to share and need more opportunities like this to bring them to life”.

Quote from Adam Garcia (Actor):

“Even though I’m now based in the UK, there was never a doubt in my mind about joining MY EYES. The film’s heart and the team’s dedication to representing meaningful stories made it impossible to say no. I’m thrilled for audiences to see the beauty and realism we’ve created.”

Quote from Eduardo Ávila Sánchez (Actor):

“As someone who understands life with a disability, I hope MY EYES encourages everyone to look past labels and assumptions. This film is about celebrating our abilities, our families, and our determination to make every moment count.”

Vision Australia also voiced support, with a spokesperson adding:

“Stories like MY EYES are essential in showing the resilience and achievements of people living with blindness or low vision. We’re proud to see an authentic portrayal on screen and look forward to the impact it will have on raising awareness for eye health.”

MY EYES also features an original track by Australian sensation Dami Im. Known for her acclaimed run at Eurovision 2016—where she won Semi-Final 2, secured the top Jury Vote, and finished second overall—Dami Im (2013 winner of THE X FACTOR AUSTRALIA and Destiny Rescue Ambassador) lends a moving musical backdrop to Alana’s journey of self-discovery.

Early festival appearances, including at the Gold Coast Film Festival, are scheduled prior to the nationwide release on May 28, 2025. A unique rollout of screenings will follow across Australia and New Zealand, featuring special Q&A events as well as Fan screenings—empowering communities to bring MY EYES to their local cinema. Tickets and more details can be found at Fan-Force.com/ MyEyes.

Make a Splash with Leo the Sea Lion Pup in Disneynature’s Sea Lions of the Galápagos, Streaming April 22 on Disney+

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Dive in with handsome sea lion pup Leo in Disneynature’s all-new feature film “Sea Lions of the Galápagos,” streaming on Disney+ beginning April 22. Narrated by Brendan Fraser, the stunning feature film explores the fascinating world of the Galapagos alongside a host of creatures from land and sea. A trailer, key art and film stills are now available to download and share.

CONSERVATION INITIATIVE

In celebration of Disneynature’s “Sea Lions of the Galápagos,” Disney Conservation Fund is supporting Conservation International, working alongside local organisations to connect more than 1,500 youth with the beauty of the Galápagos and inspire action to reduce ocean plastics for the benefit of marine life like sea lions.

SOUNDTRACK

The “Sea Lions of the Galápagos” Original Score Soundtrack composed by Raphaelle Thibaut will be available on streaming services April 22.

In “Sea Lions of the Galápagos,” Leo eventually leaves his mother’s colony to find his own home following swimming lessons, fishing expeditions and some growing up. Male sea lions must fight to earn the best spots, and only the strongest will become beachmasters. Leo’s lifelong quest is fraught with challenges and filled with new encounters with an array of creatures, from marine iguanas and racer snakes to yellow fin tuna and huge Galapagos sharks. The archipelago is Leo’s playground—overland and underwater—but he must stay vigilant to find his place in the world. Disneynature’s “Sea Lions of the Galápagos” is directed by Wilson, co-directed by Keith Scholey, and produced by Wilson, Scholey and Roy Conli, the adventure features music by composer Raphaelle Thibaut.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Disney + (photo supplied)

The Inner West Film Fest 2025 Unveils Its Complete Line-Up: What to Expect

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From April 9-17, a vibrant selection of exciting new films will screen during the third iteration of Sydney’s always buzzing Inner West Film Fest.

“We’re excited to be back for our third year with some of our best films yet! We can’t wait for audiences in the Inner West to engage with these incredible movies, many of which have direct connections to the area,” Dov Kornits, director, Inner West Film Fest.

Back for its third big year, the Inner West Film Fest will roll out in fine fashion from April 9-17, nestled comfortably at its home of Dendy Newtown with a diverse and utterly fascinating selection of feature film premieres from Australia and around the world. The full programme for the Inner West Film Fest 2025 has just been announced, and it’s jammed-to-busting with cinematic riches.

(Flat Girls)

Launching the big screen festivities on April 9 at 6:00pm will be the affecting Thai film Flat Girls, presented by the Royal Thai Consulate-General. From producers Jira “Keng” Maligool and Vanridee “One” Pongsittisak, the creative forces behind the surprise international hit How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies, Flat Girls is a sensitively written and artfully directed coming-of-age tale by gifted debutante Jirassaya Wongsutin. Part of a new wave of Thai cinema, Flat Girls is an authentic and heartfelt modern story that delicately explores the complexity and dynamism of teenage friendships.

When Belgian director Agnes Varda passed away in 2019, world cinema lost one of its most vital and impassioned female voices. In celebration of this inestimable talent, this year’s Inner West Film Fest will feature a special 25-year anniversary screening of Agnes Varda’s acclaimed 2000 documentary The Gleaners & I on 35mm film, supported by the iconic Inner West gleaners at Reverse Garbage.

(An Unfinished Film)

There are also exciting new films aplenty. An absurdist, surrealist trip that literally defies genres and simple explanation, Universal Language is Canadian director Matthew Rankin’s follow-up to his bizarre gender-bending 2019 debut The Twentieth Century. Shanghai director Lou Ye (Suzhou River, Mystery) revisits the ugly spectre of Covid head-on with his new drama An Unfinished Film, which has been banned from screening in China and is one of the hottest selling tix of the fest, almost sold out 12 hours after going on sale!

A visually stunning and deeply poetic treatise on faith, fundamentalism, community and family, The King Tide is the daring and provocative new drama from bold Canadian director Christian Sparkes, starring Clayne Crawford and Inner West’s own Aden Young. Australian writer/director Luke Eve – another one time Inner Westie – and Spanish actress Maria Albinana complete the tale of their complex relationship with the feature film UnCancelled, which follows their popular web series Cancelled and ReCancelled. Co-star Socratis Otto will be on hand to introduce this bittersweet and uplifting new film for its big screen premiere.

(Who by Fire)

Screening on National Canada Film Day (it’s a thing!), April 16, and presented by the Canadian Consulate is winner of the Berlinale Generation 14plus Grand Prix, Who by Fire, a searing coming-of-age drama with a decidedly cinematic (and Leonard Cohen-esque) edge.

(Future Council)

Non-fiction filmmaking is also well and truly in play at the Inner West Film Fest, with a host of new docos set to captivate and provoke audiences. With idiosyncratic indie-hero director Alex Ross Perry at the helm, and one of the most unconventional bands of the 1990s as its subject, Pavements – about lo-fi godheads Pavement – is certainly not your standard music documentary. In his powerful new impact doco Future Council, Aussie actor/director Damon Gameau (That Sugar Film and 2040) takes a group of eight international kids on a thrilling road trip across Europe where they charmingly get right in the faces of businesses and leaders in search of solutions to our greatest ecological challenges.

Documentary Sunlight: YES focuses on the latest work by artists SymbioticA, a collective internationally recognised as the first to grow meat in a lab. Narrated by AI, this film follows their latest artistic experiment, trying to grow food without sunlight or shit! Can they do it? Screening alongside Sunlight: YES is a special program of films made using Unreal Engine, including Dr Gregory Ferris and Dr Liz Giuffre’s Spirits of the Hoey and Jack Manning Bancroft’s Imagine, followed by an insightful panel with the filmmakers.

(Moonrise Over Knights Hill)

The Inner West Film Fest will close out in high style on April 17 by highlighting Australia’s exciting new filmmaking talent with the dazzling entrants in The Short Film Showcase, which will then lead into the World Premiere screening of 2023 Short Film Showcase winner, James Robert Woods’ feature debut Moonrise Over Knights Hill, a tense drama about a group of former high school friends who reunite with their partners for a luxury weekend getaway, with unforgettable results.

Boasting a sizzling collection of must-see films, the Inner West Film Fest is all set to raise the excitement levels even further in one of Australia’s most exciting cultural and artistic hubs. Get ready to take a true cinematic trip…

Get your tickets now at https://www.innerwestfilmfest.com.au/

Carmen & Bolude: A Groundbreaking Australian Film Set to Dazzle Sydney

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Following the incredible success of her last film Streets of Colour, which earned a 2024 AACTA nomination and saw sold-out screenings, producer Yolandi Franken is once again making waves in the Australian film industry. Her latest venture, Carmen & Bolude, is set to make its highly anticipated Australian debut on March 19th at the prestigious Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace in Sydney. The film first captured international attention with its world premiere in Los Angeles, and now, Australian audiences are eager to experience this groundbreaking production.

What sets Carmen & Bolude apart is its unique place in Australian cinema history—it is the very first Australian feature film written, directed, and produced entirely by African and Latin Australian women. Franken, known for championing diverse storytelling, acknowledges some thematic similarities between Carmen & Bolude and Streets of Colour, but she assures audiences that this latest film brings an entirely different energy.

“Although both have heart, Carmen & Bolude is also full of humour and a whole lot of personality,” says Franken. “We’re getting to see life in Australia from diverse female points of view, but in a way that’s fun – and makes us laugh out loud!”

A Red-Carpet Affair

The Australian premiere of Carmen & Bolude is set to be an unmissable event. Featuring a glamorous red carpet, sparkling wine, and an array of well-known Australian comedians and influencers, the night is expected to be a dazzling celebration of diversity in film. Among the stellar cast members gracing the screen are David Collins (of The Umbilical Brothers), Joey Veiera (of Dora and the Lost City of Gold), Joe Avati (recently crowned 2024 Australian Comedian of the Year), Suzan Mutesi, Olivia Vasquez, and many more. Their collective talent and charisma are sure to elevate the film’s already dynamic storytelling.

A Story Rooted in Reality

At the heart of Carmen & Bolude is a narrative based on real-life experiences. The film’s creator-writers, Bolude Watson and Michela Carattini, drew from their own lives, blending personal anecdotes with a touch of movie magic to craft a compelling story.

“People always guess wrong about which parts are true and which aren’t,” says Carattini. “But I can promise that everything that happens in this movie happened to us or to other people in our lives. Ultimately, our goal is to bring people together – to laugh, cry, think – but mostly, to dance.”

This honest and heartfelt approach to storytelling ensures that Carmen & Bolude resonates deeply with audiences, particularly those who have ever navigated life’s ups and downs in a multicultural world.

A Celebration of Culture and Music

Beyond its engaging narrative, Carmen & Bolude shines in its celebration of music and culture. The film features an electrifying soundtrack that brings together some of Australia’s finest Latin, African, and Indigenous artists. The music, composed by Sydney’s very own Maari Music, is an essential element of the film, adding layers of emotion and energy that amplify the storytelling.

Watson, who played a crucial role in crafting the film’s Nigerian aspects, emphasises the importance of authentic representation in the film’s music. “I wanted my people to hear themselves,” she says, “to hear their music from the vocal chords of their own people.”

The result is a vibrant, rhythmic, and deeply moving score that is sure to leave audiences captivated.

A Must-See for Australian Audiences

With its blend of humour, heart, and cultural celebration, Carmen & Bolude promises to be one of the most exciting Australian films of 2024. The film not only brings diverse female voices to the forefront but also offers a refreshing and joyous cinematic experience.

As the countdown begins for its Sydney premiere, excitement continues to build among film lovers and industry professionals alike. With its trailblazing creators, star-studded cast, and a story that is both personal and universal, Carmen & Bolude is set to be a milestone in Australian cinema.

Don’t miss the chance to witness this extraordinary film when it premieres at the Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace on March 19th. Get ready to laugh, cry, and, most importantly—dance.

Flickerfest 2025: Winners Revealed at Australia’s Premier Short Film Festival

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After a highly successful 10-day festival at Bondi, the 34th annual FLiCKERFEST International and Australian awards were announced this evening at a star-studded ceremony at Bondi Pavilion, Bondi Beach.

Attended by celebrated guests from the Australian film industry, filmmakers and jury, the Closing Night ceremony honoured the esteemed entrants in this year’s competition and FLiCKERFEST’s Academy® Qualifying Awards, including the Flickerfest Award for Best International Short Film, Yoram Gross Award for Best International Animation, Panasonic LUMIX Award for Best Australian Short Film & Flickerfest Award for Best Documentary.

The Flickerfest Short Film Awards continue to cement the festival’s global position as a leading International Short film festival on the world stage. Following the ceremony, a selection of award-winning films screened before the Closing Night Party took place.

Flickerfest now hits the road on a 40+ venue national tour to all states &territories across Australia.

And the winners are:

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

Flickerfest Award for Best International Short Film (Academy® Qualifying)
‘Changing Rooms’ (France)
Writer/Director: Violette Gitton | Producer: Jules Reinartz

Yoram Gross Award for Best International Animated Short Film (Academy® Qualifying)
‘Beautiful Men’ (Belgium)
Writer/Director: Nicolas Keppens | Producer: Emmanuel Alain Raynal

Highly Commended International Animation

‘Maybe Elephants’ (Norway, Canada)

Director/Writer: Torill Kove

Producer: Lise Fernley, Maral Mohammadian, Tonje Skar Reiersen

EU In Australia Award for Best EU Short Film

‘The Boy With White Skin’ (France, Senegal)
Writer/Director: Simon Panay | Producers: Rafael Andrea Soatto, Laëtitia Denis, Kévin Rousseau, Souleymane Kébé, Maud Leclair-Névé

Flickerfest Special Jury Award

‘Ebb And Flow’ (Lebanon)
Director/Writer: Nay Tabbara | Producer: Isabelle Mecattaf

Special Mention of the Jury for International Short Film

‘A Summer’s End Poem’ (China)

Director/Writer/Producer: Lam Can-zhao

Writer: Yupeng He, Shutong Xu

DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

Flickerfest Award for Best Documentary Short Film (Academy® Qualifying)

‘Recomposing Earth’ (UK)

Director: Christian Cargill | Producers: Christian Cargill, John Bannister

Flickerfest Special Jury Award for Documentary Short

‘Nelson The Piglet’ (Netherlands)

Director: Anneke de Lind van Wijngaarden | Producers: Nienke Rispens, Maarten Kuit, Jeroen van den Idsert

RAINBOW LGBTQI COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

Azure Productions Award for Best Rainbow Short

‘Holy Curse’ (United States)
Writer/Director/Producer: Snigdha Kapoor | Producer: Neeraj Churi

EU In Australia Award for Best EU Rainbow Short Film

‘Chico’ (France)

Writer/Director: Theo Abadie | Writer: Louise Courvoisier | Producer: Pauline Attal

SPECIAL MENTION OF THE JURY FOR RAINBOW SHORT FILM

‘Dragfox’

Director: Lisa Ott | Producer: Owen Thomas

AUSTRALIAN COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

Panasonic LUMIX Award for Best Australian Short Film (Academy® Qualifying)

‘Marcia And The Shark’

Writer/Director: Sam Ferris Bryant | Writer/Producer: Hugo O’Connor

Spectrum Films Award for Best Direction in an Australian Short Film

Director: Riley Blakeway for ‘A Thousand Odd Days’

Yoram Gross Award for Best Australian Animated Short Film

‘The Fix-It-Man And The Fix-It-Wooman’

Director: Cornelius Ebatarinja, Nelson Armstrong | Writer: Rhonda Sharpe, Courtney Collins Producer: Sophie Wallace

AFTRS Award for Best Screenplay in an Australian Short Film

Writer: Claudia Osborne for ‘Rash’

John Barry Award for Best Cinematography in an Australian Short Film

Cinematographer: Jason De Ford, Victor Ng for ‘A Good Boy’

Avid Award for Best Editing in an Australian Short Film

Editor: Samuel Inglis for ‘Not Yet’

Avid Award for Best Original Music in an Australian Short Film

Composer: Josh Barber for ‘Asian Male, 60’s, Lead’

Rebel8 Award for Outstanding Emerging Female Director In honour of Samantha Rebillet

Director: Sophie Serisier for ‘Oi’

Highly Commended Outstanding Emerging Female Director

Director: Claudia Osborne for ‘Rash’

Specsavers Award for Best Australian Comedy Short Film

‘Over’

Director/Writer: Duncan Ragg, Anna Phillips | Producer: Isabella Debbage

FLiCKERUP YOUTH COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

AFTRS FlickerUp Award for Best Youth Short Film
‘Bubblegum and Bunyips’
Director: Kellyville High School | Producer: Fabio Caprarelli

Yoram Gross FlickerUp Award for Best Youth Animated Short Film
‘The Apartment’

Director: Year 7 Doveton College Students | Producer Gene Geoffrey

Avid FlickerUp Award for Best Editing in A Youth Short Film
‘Mind The Gaps’

Wr/iDir: Lucia Carman Murray

Karma FlickerUp Jury Award for Youth Short Film
‘More Than Milk’

Writer/Dir/Prod: Abigail Rain Knight

FLiCKERFEST’s Festival Director BRONWYN KIDD says: “We are thrilled that the 34th Flickerfest 2025 has been such a success, with many filmmakers present to introduce their films, passionate crowds and great enthusiasm expressed for the programmes screened. It’s been great to see short films so warmly embraced by audiences across our ten-day event. I would like to congratulate all of the films selected for Flickerfest in competition this year, our jury for their dedication and all of tonight’s award winners.”

Calling All Future Filmmakers & Animators

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Come down to The Artistry Festival in Darling Harbour over the weekend of 7th-9th February and join world leading smartphone filmmaking, animation and stop motion workshops for all ages plus all under 18s can join the 24 hour film festival and have their film screened on the big screen at Darling Harbour.

The Artistry 24-Hour Kids’ Smartphone Film Festival invites young creators aged 6-17 to craft their own short film in just 24 hours using only a smartphone or tablet. In line with the theme of our festival – The Artistry – this festival encourages kids to explore the presence of rich cultural diversity in Australia, including the Darling Harbour precinct as reflected in the people and other infrastructures like parks, restaurants, banks or any other environments. This festival is an opportunity to showcase their creativity through accessible and resourceful storytelling.

And ready to turn your phone or tablet into a creative powerhouse? Join our Smart Phone Filmmaking Courses and explore:

* Shooting professional films and documentaries like a pro
* Creating your own animations
* Making stop-motion masterpieces

No experience needed—just your imagination and a passion for storytelling. Start your creative journey today and leave with skills (and films!) you’ll be proud of.

The courses will be held by the world’s leading smartphone film festival, SF3, alongside acclaimed Film Producer, Yolandi Franken. Teachers include award winning smartphone filmmakers and animator, Atticus Gough, whose credits include Battle Kitty and We Will Be Monsters.

There will be two free smartphone introductory sessions for you to get a taster of the amazing possibilities of smartphone filmmaking with our Lights, Camera, ACTION! Ever dreamed of making your own movie? Now’s your chance! Join our FREE Mobile Phone Filmmaking Introductory Course and urn your phone into a filmmaking studio and create a film that could wow at festivals! Open to ages 6-18. Your story starts here—don’t miss out!”

Other courses: Smartphone Filmmaking 101, Documentary Filmmaking on Smartphones, Stop Motion, Animation and a Walking Videography Adventure, where we will be inviting participants to walk around the festival with us and capture cinematic magic with our guidance.

On Friday 7th February at 6pm, the inaugural The Artistry 24 Hour Film Festival opens and all under 18s are invited to come down to the Darling Harbour precinct and make a short film for our festival. Focused on the theme of the harbour, water, or foreshore, this exciting event encourages kids to explore their natural surroundings and showcase their creativity through accessible, resourceful storytelling. Entries close Saturday 8th at 6pm and throughout the day on Sunday 9th, the entries will play on the big screen at the festival, culminating in an awards presentation hosted by Actor/Author/Producer, Suzan Mutesi.

Prizes are Best Film 6-11 Years old, Best Film 12-17 Years old, Most Creative Film 6-11 Years old, Most Creative Film 12-17 Years old and Best Performance.

The Artistry Festival – Get ready to experience a vibrant explosion of colour, sound and flavour as The Artistry takes over Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour from Fri 7 – Sun 9 Feb 2025. Believe us when we say this isn’t just your regular festival – it’s a global village come to life! Immerse yourself in diverse cultures, savour mouthwatering dishes from around the world, groove to infectious music and witness breathtaking performances. From dazzling cultural parades to electrifying live
music featuring The Artistry promises an unforgettable weekend for all. Festival highlights include a concert featuring The Justice Crew, international pavilions, food stalls and more.

To sign up for the 24 film festival or find out more – email sf3@sf3.com.au

To register for one of the filmmaking workshops: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/the-artistry-presentsfilm-making-workshops-tickets-1206252787559?aff=SF3

CONTACT FOR INTERVIEWS: Angela Blake sf3@sf3.com.au or 0406655013

Get Ready, Australia! Amy Adams’ “NIGHTBITCH” Is Hitting Disney+ in Australia & NZ This January

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If you’ve been craving a movie that’s equal parts hilarious, surreal, and downright mind-bending, we’ve got incredible news for you. Searchlight Pictures’ “NIGHTBITCH”, starring the one and only Amy Adams, is coming to Disney+ in Australia and New Zealand on January 24, 2025—and it’s going to be a ride you won’t want to miss.

What’s “NIGHTBITCH” About?

Imagine this: A super successful woman puts her career on pause to be a stay-at-home mum. Seems normal, right? Wrong. Things take a wild turn as her domestic life transforms into something downright bizarre. Let’s just say it’s got dark comedy, surreal twists, and a whole lot of “what is happening right now?!” vibes.

The movie is based on Rachel Yoder’s acclaimed debut novel, and with Marielle Heller (of Can You Ever Forgive Me? fame) writing and directing, you already know it’s going to deliver big time.

Amy Adams Is Crushing It (Again!)

Let’s talk about Amy Adams for a sec. She’s already a six-time Academy Award® nominee, and her performance in NIGHTBITCH just scored her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role – Musical or Comedy. Yep, she’s that good.

Oh, and she’s not doing it alone. Joining her are Scoot McNairy and twins Arleigh and Emmett Snowden, who are making their big-screen debut. How’s that for star power?

Why You’ll Love It

NIGHTBITCH isn’t just a movie—it’s an experience. It dives deep into the ups and downs of motherhood, identity crises, and all the weird, unexpected things life throws your way. Think satire, dark humour, and a touch of fantasy, all wrapped up in one insane package.

Mark Your Diaries: January 24, 2025

Circle the date, set a reminder, or tie a string around your finger—whatever you need to do, make sure you’re ready when NIGHTBITCH drops exclusively on Disney+. This one’s going to have everyone talking.

P.S. Disney+ Has You Covered

Worried about the kids accidentally stumbling upon a movie with mature themes? No stress. Disney+ has parental controls for days. With PIN-protected profiles and Kids Profiles, you can make sure everyone’s streaming what’s right for them.

Don’t Miss Out

Whether you’re an Amy Adams stan, a fan of quirky indie films, or just someone who loves a good laugh with a side of “WTF,” NIGHTBITCH is for you. So grab your popcorn, get comfy, and prepare to have your mind blown when it lands on Disney+ this January.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Disney+ / Image supplied by Disney+