Festival goes live

CinefestOZ will be the first Australian film festival to host screenings for live cinema audiences since the easing of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, with events in the South West from August 25-30.

CinefestOZ will announce on July 31 the full festival program, which will incorporate at least 40 live events and screenings along with a selection of online screenings.

CinefestOZ chairwoman Helen Shervington said the lifting of restrictions in WA meant what was initially planned as an online festival could now allow for physical attendance within health guidelines.

“West Australians have been told to wander out yonder and where better to visit than our beautiful South West,” she said.

“If you’re looking for film, food and fun ... CinefestOZ is the place to be.

“However, we recognise these are challenging times for us all, particularly our interstate friends and industry family who may be bound by the State border closure, so we will be presenting a program for those who can — and can’t — physically attend.”

CinefestOZ will look and feel a little different in 2020 but will continue to champion Australian stories and film through an abridged program, which will feature films, short film curation, Cinesnaps schools program activations, community screenings and more.

“It has been a really tough year for all Australians, especially those in the arts and entertainment industry,” Ms Shervington said. “We urge everyone to show their support to great Australian filmmakers and either jump online or take the trip south and come join us in person. After all, nothing beats seeing a film than collectively in a cinema.”

For the first time in the festival’s 13-year history, CinefestOZ will also include a short film competition with four cash prizes up for grabs in different categories.

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