Time to get the blankets out for another season of great films under the stars at Somerville Auditorium. You may think you know what to expect, but I’m very pleased to say this year provides a greater diversity of stories. Definitely not the usual themes, which is a pleasant surprise. So, what should you look out for?
This year brings us 23 films from 15 countries. My tips are:
- Do your research. Starting on November 25th there’s no time to waste. Make sure you check out what’s on and get your tickets soon, the good films sell out fast;
- Final Encore Week. If you can’t be bothered researching or are still not sure what to see, check out the final week when all the favourite films get another run.
- Essential items to take are a rug, insect repellent and your manners. Seriously. If you want to catch up with your friend please go to a cafe, don’t talk all through the movie. Sure you can take your own food but why would you? There are several good options on offer, we usually go for a pizza or two.
- And now to the films first up, Inside. One of Australia’s most infamous inmates, a hardened old-timer and a recent transfer from juvenile detention are thrown together in prison. As their relationship grows more entangled and intimate, who will make amends for their crimes? Who is beyond saving? With Guy Pearce staring, you’re on a sure bet. Billed as a taut and intelligent prison drama that explores the impact of institutionalisation and the struggle for rehabilitation. I’m this soon and can’t wait.
- Similarly, I’ll be seeing Audrey this week. When 18-year-old centre-of-attention and kind-of-awful Audrey falls into a coma, it’s time for everyone else in her family to shine. A wickedly dark comedy and Aussie cult classic in the making, Audrey smashes apart the taboos of not really liking your family and actually celebrates reveling in their demise. A sarcastic comedy of (bad) manners and family friction.
- The Monk And The Gun, sounds like a film we should all see. A gentle yet timely satire of the dream of democracy. As Bhutan prepares to transition to a democratic political system, a monk tries to fulfil a vow to his mentor to find a gun. A joyful film with shrewd and surprising reflections on tradition and change, this delightful Bhutanese comedy brings a sweet message of the importance of community and peace.
- Black Dog. A taciturn loner and a stray dog fall into an unlikely camaraderie in this beautiful tale of cross-species kindred spirits. Set against the moody expanse of the Gobi Desert, Black Dog creates its own unique kind of western noir through its handsomely shot and absurdly droll tale of redemption. Filled with expansive imagery and percolating with sly cultural critique, this is a heartfelt yet unsentimental portrayal of human-animal friendship.
- All We Imagine As Light. The first Indian film to premiere at Cannes in 30 years and the first ever to be directed by an Indian woman, this is a uniquely beautiful portrait of a contemporary city and some of its 20 million inhabitants. Often set at night, when a natural hush and sense of magic fills the streets, and woven together with a wondrous score, this mesmeric and graceful ode to a city gets under your skin.
- Tina. After an unspeakable loss, Mareta reluctantly takes a job at an elite private school. She soon brings her Samoan heritage and charisma to establish an unlikely school choir in this beautiful story of triumph over adversity. Tinā is a heartfelt example of the much-loved, inspiring teacher cinematic archetype, the transformative power of shared experiences and the healing potential of music.
- Bob Trevino Likes It. Sometimes it takes a stranger to help you see the real you and your potential. After Lily mistakes Bob for her narcissistic father on social media, the two strike up an unlikely friendship. The film is a joyful and moving tribute to the small acts of compassion and generosity that make a massive difference.
Running from Nov 25 to April 6. For more information go to Perth Festival
