From East Timorese intrigue and romance to ritual killings of albinos in Tanzania or Filipino “shockumentary”, to Malawi, Cambodia and France, the Human Rights Arts & Film Festival, running from May 9 – 23, offers more than the standard festival fare.
This is a season dedicated specifically to the ongoing human struggle for dignity in the face of often appalling circumstances, yet it inevitably overflows with examples of the triumph of the human spirit over that array of adversities, violations and oppressions. The festival documents the ability of humans, individually and collectively, to change the course of their own history. At a time when the contemporary world is unbalanced by epochal shifts in power, allocation and distribution of resources and technologies, the festival is a reminder of just how much is being done, and still needs to be done, around the globe.
Showcasing award-winning documentaries, narratives, visual art collaborations and photography, HRAFF uses the power of storytelling to engage people with human rights issues and concerns. HRAFF will feature some of the best films from the festival circuit and host an array of international film guests.
The 2013 HRAFF program will surprise and intrigue, featuring a mash-up of home videos in Jonathan Caouette’s latest film Walk Away Renee, a French animation for children, and a radical Filipino comedy-of-sorts to name a few. New to the 2013 program is CineSeeds – an inspiring and educational event for young people and their parents alike. CineSeeds will showcase the magical 2D animation film, Zafara, which explores themes of loyalty, love and freedom and was inspired by the true story of the first giraffe to arrive in France.
In last 12 months, Xanadu Wines has created exciting alliances with some of Melbourne’s cutting edge film festivals. As a new-found supporter of film, this Margaret River wine brand is devoted to the growth and development of this talented industry.
The festival kicks off with the Australian premiere of Alias Ruby Blade at ACMI, an action packed documentary that chronicles the tumultuous birth of a new nation in East Timor through a never-before-seen perspective. The opening night will feature international guests and a post film Q&A with the filmmakers.
The opening night after-party will follow at new Melbourne venue, Tonic House Cellar, where guests can visit the Xanadu Wine Bar to celebrate the launch with HRAFF and Xanadu Wines and enjoy free drinks, food and music.
The Human Rights Arts and Film Festival shows from May 9 – 23 at ACMI Fed Square, Yarra Gallery Federation Square, The Dax Centre, The Ownership Project, Bella Union and RMIT Link Arts and Culture space.
