As you can see, we are doing something a bit different with this preview. Due to the small selection of films in each section, we’ve combined three – Crime Scene, Networked and This Sporting Life – to commit to our format and feature those picks we believe deserve attention. We’ll give you two picks in each category that are definite watches.
Medianeras | dir. Gustavo Taretto | ARG/GER/ESP
I was completely enamoured with Taretto’s Medianeras at SFF and its inventive portrayal of urban representation in a contemporary setting. Embracing and critiquing modern technology with some interesting stylistic choices, I really do urge MIFF patrons to see this film.
Senna | dir. Asif Kapadia | UK
Another film I have had a couple of experiences with already is the documentary Senna, which has rightly won audience awards at BAFF and topped the documentary section of the Sydney Critics’ Poll. This is not just for Formula One fans, this is something for everyone.
KNOWN FILMS YET TO SCREEN AT AN AUSTRALIAN FESTIVAL
Once Upon A Time in Anatolia | dir. Nuri Bilge Ceylan | TUR
The other Grand Prix winner at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, we have already featured the trailer for Once Upon A Time in Anatolia in which I was compelled by the minimalist style and striking photography of the hills of Anatolia. This multilayered crime tale seems intriguing in every sense of the word.
Polisse | dir. Maiwenn Le Besco | FRA
An extensive look at officers in the Parisian Child Protection Unit, Polisse is an energetic and creative feature, lifted by its incredible amount of detail. While some have criticized the rushed editing, this two hour crime effort is nevertheless praised for its excellent execution.
THE DARK HORSES
Fire In Babylon | dir. Stevan Riley | UK
Containing a myriad of period footage and deep insight into West Indian cricket in the 1970s and 1980s, Fire in Babylon is a wildcard completely dependent on its execution. I know little on the topic and it will be interesting to learn about the political and corrupting influences behind the cricket association. Still, I am wary of whether it will become contrived.
Viva Riva! | dir. Djo Munga | COD/BEL/FRA
An action film set in contemporary Democratic Republic of Congo, Viva Riva! has been described as a non-stop crime thriller with plenty of guns, sex and excess. Containing a bold social critique, plenty have marvelled at the strong direction from Munga and it seems unreasonable to miss this rare opportunity to see cinema from this country.
THE TWO MUST-SEES OF OUR FESTIVAL SCHEDULE
Bullhead | dir. Michael R. Roskam | BEL
The performance of Matthias Schoenaerts alone has me interested but the Jury and Critics Awards respectively at Berlin and Beaune festivals this year won me over. An unnerving story fuelled by a sense of dread, Bullhead is one I am really excited to see.
Once Upon A Time in Anatolia | dir. Nuri Bilge Ceylan | TUR
Winning the Grand Jury Prize at Cannes is always a good indication of quality and the trailer confirms this hypothesis. Featuring strong performances, visuals and locations, this is a must-see of the festival.
Hopefully this list helps decide your picks in the section. If you have already bought tickets to Crime Scene, Networked or This Sporting Life films, we would love to know your choices and your most anticipated of the category!
