The Adelaide Film Festival (AFF), established in 2002, is a premier Australian film event celebrating the moving image in all its forms. The festival is renowned for its diverse range of contemporary screen culture from around Australia and the world. Recognized by Variety as one of the ‘50 Unmissable Film Festivals’, the AFF is a twelve-day celebration each October that has gained significant acclaim both nationally and internationally.
Originally held biennially, the festival switched to an annual format from 2015 to 2018, with occasional mini-events in intervening years. In 2022, it was announced that the festival would be presented annually, supported by a funding commitment from the South Australian government.
The festival was the first in Australia to establish an Investment Fund (AFFIF), which has supported numerous projects that have achieved international and domestic success, winning numerous prestigious awards including an Emmy, and awards at Cannes, Berlin, and Sundance Film Festivals.
A variety of awards are offered at the festival, including the Feature Film Award, Documentary Award, AFF Audience Awards, the Change Award (celebrating films with a positive social or environmental impact), the Don Dunstan Award (for outstanding contribution to Australian screen culture), and the Bettison & James Award, which provides recognition and support to individuals working in various fields.
Over the years, the festival has hosted a wide array of films and artists. The 2022 edition included screenings of films such as “TÁR” starring Cate Blanchett, “My Policeman” with Harry Styles, and “Triangle of Sadness” by Ruben Östlund, among others. The festival has also seen participation from renowned artists and filmmakers, contributing to its growth and success, and has had a significant economic impact on the state’s economy.
For more detailed information about the Adelaide Film Festival, its programs, ticketing, and upcoming events, you can visit their official website. To stay updated with the latest news and updates, you can also follow their Facebook page
PAST FILMS FEATURED INCLUDE:
The Adelaide Film Festival has curated an impressive lineup of films throughout its history, featuring captivating stories and exceptional filmmaking from both local and international talents. Here are a few noteworthy films that have left a lasting impact on festival attendees:
Samson and Delilah (2009): Directed by Warwick Thornton, this Australian film won the prestigious Caméra d’Or at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival. It tells the poignant tale of two Indigenous teenagers who find solace in each other amidst the challenges of their remote community.
The Great Gatsby (2013): Directed by Baz Luhrmann and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Carey Mulligan, and Tobey Maguire, this lavish adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel brought glitz and glamour to the festival. The film’s grandeur and visual spectacle captivated audiences.
Moonlight (2016): Barry Jenkins’ Oscar-winning film made its mark at the Adelaide Film Festival, exploring the life of a young African-American man struggling with his identity and sexuality. Moonlight’s powerful storytelling and nuanced performances resonated with audiences worldwide.
Roma (2018): Directed by Alfonso Cuarón, this Mexican drama garnered critical acclaim and received numerous accolades, including the Golden Lion at the 2018 Venice Film Festival. The film’s stunning black-and-white cinematography and intimate portrayal of a domestic worker’s life left a lasting impression.
Parasite (2019): Directed by Bong Joon-ho, this South Korean film made history by winning the Palme d’Or at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival and subsequently earning four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Parasite’s masterful blend of social commentary, dark comedy, and thrilling storytelling captivated audiences worldwide.
Festival Australia acknowledges the traditional Country of the Kaurna people of the Adelaide Plains and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and relationship with the land. We acknowledge that they are of continuing importance to the Kaurna people living today.
