I am writing to share about a little-known international Film Festival held yearly in Adelaide. The 2024 Adelaide Film Festival (AFF, 23 October-3 November) provided an opportunity not only to celebrate global cinema but also to explore deeper themes of faith, culture, and the human experience
My journey began in September, attending an early screening of The Substance, a film that, despite its body horror genre—a departure from my usual preference—left me contemplating its broader metaphors. After the shocking finale, the audience’s reactions ranged from uncomfortable laughter to silent exit, yet I couldn’t help but reflect on the film’s critique of societal pressures and the unrealistic expectations placed on individuals in a world that constantly tells them they are “never good enough.” It was a reminder that art, even in its most disturbing forms, can carry profound messages about human vulnerability and cultural critique.
As a member of the AFF, I was invited to the program launch, where I mingled with industry leaders, including Matt Kesting, the CEO & Creative Director of the Festival, and Hugo Weaving, who expressed the importance of programming Australian cinema, especially in regional areas as I do in my small 2 screen cinema in Gawler SA. The festival’s program, featuring over 100 films from more than 40 countries, was a vibrant celebration of global storytelling, with many films exploring themes of identity, culture, and the human condition. As I dove into the extensive lineup, I found myself drawn to films that sparked conversations about faith, personal growth, and societal values.
One such film was The Correspondent, which opened the festival. Based on the true story of Australian journalist Peter Greste’s imprisonment in Egypt, this hard-hitting drama delved into issues of freedom of speech, media rights, and the ethical challenges of journalism. As Christians, we are often reminded of the importance of sharing our faith and speaking truth, and The Correspondent was a powerful example of the risks journalists take to bring truth to the world. It sparked reflections on the vital role of media in maintaining freedom of speech and how faith-based voices can also be part of that essential discourse.
One of the more interesting films I encountered was Future Council, a documentary that gave voice to a group of young children advocating for climate action. These kids—aged between 10 and 12—are passionately determined to combat climate change and make a difference for future generations. Their boldness in voicing their ideas reminded me of the Biblical call to care for the earth and its inhabitants. This documentary was a wake-up call to recognize our role as stewards of God’s creation and to ensure that we leave behind a world that reflects our values of justice and compassion.
The closing night film, Kangaroo Island, encapsulated the intersection of faith, life, and nature. This heartfelt drama explored a family navigating loss, doubt, and existential question about life after death. Its nuanced portrayal of individuals grappling with questions of faith—against the backdrop of the stunning Australian landscape—struck a deep chord. Kangaroo Island isn’t a Christian film per se, but it creates a space for meaningful conversation about life, faith, and the complexities of human existence. The characters wrestling with their beliefs, and the unspoken yet profound reflections on God’s role in their lives, made it one of the most moving and thought-provoking films of the festival.
The 2024 Adelaide Film Festival, through its diverse lineup and thought-provoking narratives, provided not only an artistic journey but also an opportunity for spiritual reflection. As I left the festival, I was reminded of the power of storytelling to open hearts, challenge societal norms, and invite deeper conversations about faith, culture, and the world around us.