2017 SYDNEY FILM FESTIVAL

By Mark Morellini

This prestigious film festival, which is regarded as one of the most prominent and diverse in the world amongst filmmakers and festival attendees alike, celebrates its 64th presentation and audiences should be mesmerised by the alluring program showcasing 288 films from 59 countries.

The popularity of this iconic event is exemplified by the expansion in venues, with the welcome addition of Randwick’s iconic Ritz Cinema, which celebrates its 80^th birthday this year.

The much anticipated event for our global city is a celebration of world cinema and should have wide ranging appeal. Award ceremonies are a signature event at this festival, where excellence in feature films, short films and documentaries are honoured.

There are 12 films in competition for the 10^th illustrious Sydney Film Prize, which includes Australian produced documentary We Don’t Need A Map by Cannes-awarded Indigenous director Warwick Thornton. This cutting-edge film which has its world premiere at the gala opening night, will take audiences on a journey through Australia’s colonial and Indigenous history to the present day.

Many events including free parties and virtual reality programs at the Hub, Q&A’s, red carpet premieres, meet the filmmaker talks and gourmet cinema packages highlight the ever-growing variety of entertainment available to festival-goers.

The objective of the meticulously curated program of movies is not only to entertain, but more importantly, to address important issues and open a window into the diverse cultures, immersing and challenging audiences.

Home grown Muslim film, Ali’s Wedding which focuses on a young Muslim man torn between adhering to family traditions and following his own heart, is destined to be a comedic hit at this year’s festival. The story surrounds Ali, whose arranged marriage is fast approaching, but he’s deeply in love with another lady. Hilariously, to make things more complicated, he has lied about his medical entrance exam results so he can be with the love of his life and his father is also the Muslim Cleric – will true love conquer these obstacles?

Osamah Sami who plays the role of Ali, and is also credited as Associate Producer and co-writer, explained that this film is based on his own real-life experiences where his arranged marriage lasted under two hours.

“It’s pretty close to my story minus the comedy – there was a lot of horror but I left it out. It could very well have gone down that track!” laughed Sami.

It’s quite refreshing that Muslims, who are generally stereotyped as shady characters and terrorists in films are portrayed realistically in Ali’s Wedding, in their home environment as normal, loving people who are also very respectful of their culture and traditions.

“People are always looking over our fences and asking ‘why do you dress like that?’ and ‘why do you eat that?’ and ‘why are you fasting?’ This film offers a positive message – a fresh perspective. Regardless of how we live our lives we’re just like everyone else. The human element of love and the importance of community – these elements bind us together regardless of race or religion.”

And on the issue of arranged marriages?

“There are arranged marriages that work, like my parents and countless others. At times it doesn’t work. It’s what people personally want. Ultimately, what’s really important is that we have to be responsible for our own actions”.

Sami conveys his thoughts on telling lies with a quote from the film – “It is a sin which burns through the soul, as fire burns through wood,” but says that some lies are a necessity – a survival mechanism. “My father would have died if he didn’t tell a lie, but normally lies are holes that get dug deeper and deeper and come back and bite you on the butt”.

He’s excited about his film, being the first of its kind and feels Aussie audiences should enjoy it. But what about older generation Muslim audiences? “It’s hard to say, I didn’t intend to offend anyone, but my mother saw the film and loved it!”

Sami ecstatically says that it’s a massive honour and a dream come true to have his film screened at the SFF. He believes this is the perfect platform for filmmakers to spread awareness about important issues.

“The SFF has always been a melting pot of culture for Aussie and foreign films. They’ve always had the knack of selecting films in which audiences will learn about other cultures. It’s a wonderful platform which hopefully springboards for us, but regardless I’m proud of the wonderful work from everyone associated with the film and I’ll keep telling stories.”

Festival runs Jun 7-18. Various venues. $19-$155 (10 films). Tickets & info: www.sff.org.au

Ali’s Wedding screenings:

Jun 8, 6:25pm State Theatre

Jun 9, 8:15pm Ritz Theatre

Jun 10, 7:30pm Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre.

HOT PICKS

ORDINARY PEOPLE (Philippines): This drama won the People’s Choice award at Venice and follows the plight of a very young homeless couple whose baby has been kidnapped. Heart-wrenching and engaging.

IT’S NOT DARK YET (Ireland): An affecting documentary (narrated by Collin Farrell) which centres on a 34 year old Irish filmmaker named Simon Fitzmaurice who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease. Losing all mobility he defiantly scripted and directed his debut feature film. Inspirational.

THE FOREST OF LOST SOULS (Portugal): A middle aged man doesn’t realise the horrifying repercussions on his family when he attempts suicide in a dark forest, renown for those wishing to take their lives. An arthouse horror film.

WHITNEY ‘CAN I BE ME’ (UK):  This gripping documentary explores the life and phenomenal career of songstress Whitney Houston, from childhood until her untimely death in 2012. Insightful interviews with those closest to her reveal a shattered life. A must-see for music enthusiasts.

ICE MOTHER (Czech Republic): When a 67 year-old grandmother saves a man from drowning, a relationship develops which not only rekindles her zest for life, but also alienates her sons. A charming and poignant film.