Four Australian films have been selected to screen at the Venice International Film Festival this year, with two of them being world premieres.
Warwick Thorton‘s Sweet Country will make it’s premiere within the official competition, while West of Sunshine will premiere in the Orizzonti section.
Sweet Country comes from writers Steven McGregor and David Tranter and director Warwick Thorton. The film provides a rich and detailed look on the historical mistreatment of Aboriginal life and culture.
West of Sunshine is writer/director Jason Raftopoulos‘ feature film debut, and tells the story of a father who has less than a day to pay back a debt to a loan shark, while caring for his young son.
The Knife Salesman will also screen in competition in Orizzonti – Short Films, and is been written, directed and produced by Michael Leonard, with Jamie Helmer also directing. The Knife Salesman follows the story of a knife salesman who visits a frustrated housewife living in a coastal Australian town.
Finally, Strange Colours, co-written/directed by Alena Lodkina and co written/produced by Isaac Wall and produced by Kate Laurie. The story follows a woman who travels to a remote opal mining community to visit her estranged, ill father to try and mend their fractured relationship.
Graeme Mason, Screen Australia’s CEO commented saying: “The range of Australian stories and talent that Venice have chosen to showcase is astounding. From visionary Warwick Thornton to emerging artist Alena Lodkina, to get this kind of attention from one of the world’s most prestigious festivals is significant. A warm congratulations to all the creatives, cast and crew who have been honoured by these selections.”
The 74th Venice International Film Festival runs from the 30th of August to the 9th of September.
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