Open your festival experience with GO! the highly anticipated coming-of-age story filmed on the shores and dirt tracks of Busselton, the heart of CinefestOZ. This heart-warming and often funny yarn makes its premiere as a Film Prize finalist at Orana Cinemas, followed by a glittering celebration at the Festival Hub.

CinefestOZ Opening Night is always fun, inclusive and thoroughly entertaining, so be quick to secure your tickets.

Opening Night includes:

5.45pm Red carpet action for all
Doors open early for those who like to dress up and take selfies on the custom-made red carpet. Includes a welcome drink on arrival.

6.00pm Filmmakers, stars, VIPs and Film Prize Jury
Watch some of the key talent and actors walk the red carpet as part of CinefestOZ. Once seated, the screening begins.

Film screening of GO!

8.30pm Let the party begin
Walk or bus to the Festival Hub at the Undalup Room, City of Busselton Civic Centre, for the after party at the Festival Hub offers great food, live music and a festival vibe. Wines by Forester Estate and beers from Eagle Bay Brewing Co.

Later
Kick on at a late-night venue

When Jack (Will Lodder) and his single mother (Frances O’Connor) move to a small town in Western Australia, he soon gets involved in the competitive world of go-kart racing. Jack’s got natural talent but must learn to control his recklessness. To do that, he’ll need the help of aspiring engineer, Mandy (Anastasia Bampos), wise-cracking best mate Colin (Darius Amarfio Jefferson) and mysterious mentor, Patrick (Richard Roxburgh). Together, the team will endeavour to overcome all odds and defeat ruthless racer Dean (Cooper Van Grootel) to win the National Go Kart Championship. GO! is a high octane Australian family film with heart.

Pair this event with the GO! In Conversation on Thursday at Eagle Bay Brewing Co. for the complete festival experience. GO behind the scenes with filmmakers and talent to explore the making of the film.

Celebrate the opening of CinefestOZ 2019 in the newly refurbished Margaret River HEART with Storm in a Teacup, featuring one of the region’s best known and loved artists, Leon Pericles and his wife Moira.

Arrive for a pre-screening reception of canapes and a welcome drink in the HEART foyer, surrounded by an array Leon’s life work before the premiere screening of the captivating and deeply personal documentary Storm in a Teacup, told by their daughter Nia.

Storm in a Teacup is an intimate portrait of Margaret River artist Leon Pericles as he embarks on his biggest challenge yet – a full retrospective exhibition of a lifetime of artworks at a time when he has the least support. Leon is one of Australia’s most renowned printmakers and painters. His wife Moira has played a huge part in his success as his creative counsel and manager. That is until now.

Told through the eyes of their daughter Nia, the film explores the role reversal of Leon and Moira, who has always been her husband’s rock, but now has Alzheimer’s. As Leon prepares for his exhibition, he must do so alone, juggling his roles of artist, husband and carer to Moira.

After the screening, hear from Nia Pericles and her family about the making of the film, in a hosted Q&A session.

Exhibition. Film. Filmmaker discussion. A very special Margaret River event.

Take pole position to hear from the filmmakers and attending cast of GO!, at this relaxed In Conversation lunch overlooking the pristine Geographe Bay. Eagle Bay Brewing Co. opens its doors to an afternoon of entertaining conversations about the film GO over a shared lunch.

This event is sure to be of interest to many, as the film, which premieres at CinefestOZ Opening Night, was shot on location in Busselton and features many of the town’s landmarks and friendly faces. Be taken behind the scenes through a hosted chat, which allows the audience to ask questions as well.

Lunch is a substantial offering of canapes, combined feasting plates and dessert, with a welcome bevvy on arrival. Drinks, including award-winning beers, are available for separate purchase. Bus transport is included from Orana Cinemas. Relax over lunch with live entertainment provided by local musicians.

‘In Conversations’ are a terrific way to make the most of the film guests attending the festival and to savour the tastes and locations unique to the South West region.

Double the fun by attending the premiere of GO!, which screens as the festival’s Opening Night film on Wednesday, 28 August and is celebrated with an after party at the Festival Hub. Both events can be viewed as stand alone, but combining the two offers a terrific festival experience. GO! is a CinefestOZ Film Prize finalist, competing for the nation’s richest film prize right here at CinefestOZ.

Hearts and Bones, a Film Prize finalist film starring Hugo Weaving, makes its Western Australian Premiere at CinefestOZ. Filmmakers and attending talent walk the red carpet at Orana Cinemas along with the high-profile Jury, ahead of the screening.

After settling in to enjoy the feature, celebrate at the Festival Hub. Relish delicious local food, wines by Forester Estate and beers from Eagle Bay Brewing Co.

Synopsis:
A war photographer has just returned home to prepare for his latest exhibition when a South Sudanese refugee appears at his door with a request – that he not exhibit any photographs of the massacre in his village, taken 15 years earlier. What emerges is an unlikely friendship between the two men. While sifting through the photographer’s archive, they make a startling discovery – the refugee’s daughter, thought dead, may still be alive. As more revelations arise, both men begin to question their past and in their search, they discover salvation.

Hearts and Bones – a story about hope and the mysterious bonds of family, friendship and fatherhood.

Please note: runtime includes screening and function; this film screens in multiple cinemas at the same time so please check your cinema number; the Film Prize Jury will view the screening in Cinema 1.

Pair this event with the In Conversation lunch at Amelia Park Tavern, Busselton, the following day to learn more about the making of the film from the filmmakers and talent.

Learn about the film, which made its Western Australian Premiere at CinefestOZ on Thursday night and discover some storytelling secrets and behind the scenes tales.

Nestled on the historic grounds of Newtown House, Amelia Park Tavern is rich and sumptuous in European furnishings and style and the perfect location to relax and delve into a hosted conversation. Enjoy a glass of prosecco on arrival, followed by a three-course menu, including delicious Amelia Park lamb shoulder. Additional beverages available for purchase.

‘In Conversations’ are a terrific way to make the most of the film guests attending the festival and to savour the tastes and locations unique to the South West region.

This is a standalone event. However, it is enhanced by watching the Premiere Event – Hearts and Bones, 7.00pm on Thursday at Orana Cinemas, Busselton.

MIFF@CinefestOZ film Measure for Measure, a finalist in the CinefestOZ Film Prize, makes its Western Australian premiere at this event, screening and after party. Filmmakers and talent will attend the premiere at Orana Cinemas, along with the high profile Film Prize Jury. After watching the filmmakers and talent shine on the red carpet, enjoy the film, then head to the Festival Hub for delicious canapés, live music, Forester Estate wines and beers by Eagle Bay Brewing Co. Measure for Measure is an ensemble romantic drama staring Hugo Weaving. Set within Melbourne’s commission flats, the film is a contemporary take on Shakespeare’s play of the same name. Pair this Premiere event with Saturday’s Measure for Measure In Conversation breakfast at 8.15am, where you will hear from filmmakers and attending talent in a hosted event at Equinox Restaurant and Bar, over looking the Busselton Jetty. It’s an early start, but the coffee is good and the view is sublime!
MIFF@CinefestOZ: A Presentation of the Melbourne International Film Festival Premiere Fund.

The Naked Wanderer makes its World Premiere at a star-studded, red carpet event in the City of Bunbury as part of CinefestOZ.

Be the first to see this heart-warming, feel-good film, shot predominantly in the City of Bunbury, and celebrate its home-grown success.

Your evening begins at the Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre with live music, drinks and canapes, where you can watch all of the red carpet action and interviews and walk the red carpet yourself. The film will screen at our very own Grand Cinemas, following an introduction from the filmmakers and stars. Wines by Forester Estate and beers from Eagle Bay Brewing Co.

The Naked Wanderer tells the story of Jake – a broken-hearted man who treks the WA coastline mostly naked for charity in a bid to win back his ex-girlfriend.

The film was directed by Vue Group’s Alan Lindsay, who also produced alongside Bunbury local Helen Clucas. The film is written by Callan Durlik, originally of Margaret River.

It stars Angus McLaren and Natasha Bordizzo alongside a stellar cast of Australian actors, with British icon John Cleese appearing as a guest star. McLaren became a household name playing Nathan in Channel 7’s popular series Packed to the Rafters, while his character’s newfound love Valerie is played by Natasha Liu Bordizzo of the hit Netflix show The Society.

Next day, don’t miss The Naked Wanderer In Conversation lunch at Basalt Restaurant at Bunbury’s Lighthouse Quality Hotel. This event takes you behind the scenes of the film as the filmmakers and stars talk over a relaxed lunch.

‘In Conversations’ are a terrific way to make the most of the film guests attending the festival and to savour the tastes and locations unique to the South West region. Combining these two separate events is the perfect way experience the festival.

Filmmakers and attending cast of Judy and Punch will walk the red carpet ahead of the film making its Western Australia Premiere at CinefestOZ.

This is your last chance to attend a Film Prize finalist screening so don’t miss the cinema action at Orana, followed by the after party at The Hub, with live music, canapé options, Forester Estate wines and beers by Eagle Bay Brewing Co.

Synopsis
In the anarchic town of Seaside, nowhere near the sea, puppeteers Judy and Punch are trying to resurrect their marionette show. The show is a hit due to Judy’s superior puppeteering, but Punch’s driving ambition and penchant for whisky lead to an inevitable tragedy that Judy must avenge.

The film stars Mia Wasikowska as Judy and Damon Herriman as Punch, and is described by Director Mirrah Foulkes as ‘a dark, absurd fable treading a line between fairy-tale, fantasy and gritty realism, all of which work together to establish a unique tone while upsetting viewer expectations.

Please note: runtime includes screening and function.

Next day, learn more about the film at a hosted In Conversation breakfast event at Equinox Restaurant and Bar overlooking the tranquil Geographe Bay and historic Busselton Jetty. Grab your 8.30am coffee and ease into your Saturday by delving deeper into Judy and Punch with the filmmakers.

Here is a festival event for the entire family to enjoy on Fathers Day! MIFF@CinefestOZ film H is for Happiness, the Western Australian film starring Daisy Axon, Richard Roxburgh and Emma Booth makes its premiere in Busselton as a CinefestOZ Film Prize finalist. Your ticket is incredible value for this very special event as it combines all the essential festival elements. Feel like a star on the red carpet ahead of the film at Orana Cinemas. Then watch the filmmakers and stars as they support the film and chat to media, ahead of the film screening. This is a Film Prize screening, meaning our prestigious Jury will be in the audience watching the film for the first time. Synopsis Set in the colourful Australian coastal town of Albany, H is for Happiness is a classic feel-good film for all ages that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer with delight. Based on the award-winning book My Life as an Alphabet by Barry Jonsberg, it is the genuinely heart-warming and unflinchingly honest story of one twelveyear-old’s determination to bring her family back from the brink and spark happiness in their lives. Using an entirely unique approach, Candice Phee is an unforgettable heroine whose exploits will inspire and delight anyone who has faced the trials of adolescence and the heartbreak of family tragedy. Starring newcomers Daisy Axon and Wesley Patton alongside Miriam Margolyes, Richard Roxburgh, Emma Booth, Joel Jackson, Deb Mailman and a miniature horse, H is for Happiness shows us a quintessentially Australian world through the eyes of a quirky outsider, and is a joyous celebration of all things a little bit different. After the final credits have rolled, there’s a celebration at the Festival Hub (City of Busselton’s Undalup Room) with food and drinks and a few fun activities. The kids will love it! There’s also a not-to-be-missed hosted Q&A session with attending filmmakers and talent, to take you behind the scenes of this film, made in Albany and starring many of its locals as extras. MIFF@CinefestOZ: A Presentation of the Melbourne International Film Festival Premiere Fund.

Meet the Film Prize Jury, led by Chair Rachel Ward, here to adjudicate the CinefestOZ Film Prize. This special festival experience allows access to this high profile group of film professionals as they talk about their filmic lives and experiences over lunch. The relaxed gallery setting at Yallingup’s Studio Bistro is this year’s location for this highly popular lunch. Combine the South West essentials of fine food and wine, generous hospitality and glorious location and you have CinefestOZ at its best. The highlight of the lunch, along with the sumptuous three-course lunch by Head Chef Thales Franca, is the hosted In Conversation with our Jury guests, where stories and yarns of brilliant careers are shared. Rachel Ward is this year’s Film Prize Jury Chair. She has directed and written film and television projects in Australia for the past 15 years, and is a multi-Golden Globe nominated actor. Rachel will be joined by the Jury members, each with fascinating careers and backstories. Lunch is served with beverages from Forester Estate and Eagle Bay Brewing Co. Buses from Busselton are provided.

Following the previous night’s screening of The Naked Wanderer, take the opportunity to attend an intimate Q&A at Basalt Restaurant at the Quality Lighthouse Hotel. In attendance will be the film’s Director Alan Lindsay, Writer Callan Durlik and special guests. A relaxed and entertaining lunch, held at this picturesque venue, offers fascinating insights into the making of the film.

The Naked Wanderer spans the length of Western Australia, but was filmed mainly in the Bunbury area, involving many local businesses, extras and varied locations. Come celebrate this film’s success with the people who made it happen. The ticket includes a two-course lunch and welcome drink. What better place to learn the backstory to a feature, filmed along the beautiful Bunbury coastline?

‘In Conversations’ are a terrific way to make the most of the film guests attending the festival and to savour the tastes and locations unique to the South West region.

This event pairs with The Naked Wanderer World Premiere event in Bunbury on 30 August.

Join the filmmakers of Judy and Punch for captivating conversations about this Film Prize finalist. It is a rare pleasure to learn about the making of this film, enhanced by an exquisite lunch at Yarri Restaurant and Bar. Located in the centre of Dunsborough, Yarri’s focus on ethically produced seasonal ingredients ensures this lunch will be a culinary highlight of the festival. Enjoy a glass of wine on arrival before exploring the film’s story with interactive discussions and questions around Judy and Punch, screened Friday, 30 August. Be treated to a unique three-course share style lunch from Chef Aaron Carr, with drinks available for purchase separately. ‘In Conversations’ are a terrific way to make the most of the film guests attending the festival and to savour the tastes and locations unique to the South West region.

Delve into the intricacies of Friday night’s Western Australian premiere screening of MIFF@CinefestOZ film Measure for Measure at an early morning session at the Equinox Restaurant & Bar. Situated on the Busselton Foreshore, overlooking the historic Jetty, the Equinox Restaurant & Bar is the perfect early morning location to enjoy a reviving coffee, delicious breakfast and conversations about this Film Prize finalist film, screened at 5.30pm on Friday. ‘In Conversations’ are a terrific way to make the most of the film guests attending the festival and to savour the tastes and locations unique to the South West region. Combining the Measure for Measure premiere and this lunch is the perfect way experience the festival. A complimentary bus service from Orana Cinemas is included.

Gala Night offers the glamour, drama and spectacle befitting this award-winning festival’s premium evening event. Finalist filmmakers attend, along with all VIP guests and audiences to witness the awarding of the highly coveted $100,000 CinefestOZ Film Prize in competition at the festival.

But the evening is so much more than this.

5.30pm Red Carpet spotlight
Your evening begins with an option to walk the red carpet in your finest formal gear – it’s not just for the film stars!

6.00pm Film showcase
Screening of a selection of Australian Short Films having their premieres at the festival.
Settle into your seat to enjoy a selection of the best new short films you will see in Australia

7.00pm Interval of light and tasty food, drink and star arrivals
At interval, enjoy a light meal and the VIP red carpet. Action from the crimson rug is streamed live into the cinemas as the stars of Australian filmmaking gather at Orana Cinemas. Be there to hear from some of the incredible talent in Western Australia for CinefestOZ.

7.45pm Australian film talent bonanza
Our high profile MC tells a few engaging stories about film (previous hosts have included Ben Elton, Shane Jacobson and David Wenham), Then hear from the Screen Legend before the Jury Chair awards the $100,000 Film Prize.

The 6th CinefestOZ Film Prize is awarded to an outstanding new film.

After: Festival hub opens for more food, wine and live music
Join the party at the Festival Hub. Take in the great live music, generous canapés and the region’s best beverages. Please note: runtime includes screening, awards and function; the awards take place in Cinema 1 and are beamed live to Cinema 2 and 3.