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Five film festivals to fill your spring and summer

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To end 2023 with a bang, five film festivals showing both local and international films are screening between September and November.

Look no further if you want to enrich your cinephile name! 

The British Film Festival

2023 is a big year for British films! At this festival, make sure not to miss One Life staring Sir Anthony Hopkins, which tells the amazing story of Sir Nicholas Winton – who saved hundreds of European children before the start of WW2.  

My Name is Alfred Hitchcock is another film to catch, revolving around one of the most famous directors of the 20th century – the fictitious Hitchcock narrates his cinematic techniques whilst rewatching his own films.  

Thursday 2 November to Wednesday 29 November | Venue and tickets are yet to be announced, keep a look out for information here.

 The Canberra International Film Festival

For lovers of silent and black and white films, the Canberra International Film Festival (CIFF) gives them a modern relevance through guest speakers. The festival holds Q&As and panel discussions and celebrates films that may have been neglected.  

A film to see if you love Drew Barrymore is Midnight. It stars John Barrymore – her grandfather!  

Friday the 20 October to Sunday 22 October | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA ARC) Cinema | Book here.

The Italian Film Festival

In this film festival, genre range from crime and romance, to comedy, history and documentary – there really is something for everyone!  

Some stand outs are The Last Night of Amore, a box office smash in Italy this year. This film follows a police lieutenant who is drawn into corruption and crime before his retirement. Another stand out is Kidnapped, a true story of a young boy who was abducted by the Vatican in the 19th century.  

Tuesday 19 September to Wednesday 25 October | Palace Electric Cinema, 2 Phillip Law Street | Book here.

The Canberra Short Film Festival

Highly anticipated and loved by many, the Canberra Short Film Festival is returning for its 28th season! Details for the finalists have yet to be announced – but keep your eyes peeled for updates on their website and social media.  

Friday 10 November to Sunday 26 November | Venue and tickets are yet to be announced, keep a look out information here.

 The Japanese Film Festival

This year the Japanese Film Festival is showing a large array of Japanese cinema, from old black and white films to brand new 2023 films representing the Japanese queer community.  

Filmmaker Kō Nakahira is the special series director this year, who was a pioneering figure in post-war Japanese cinema. One of his many talents, is his ability to create films across genres – compared to other directors of his time this set him apart. Take your pick of four of his films this October! 

Saturday 30 September to Sunday 15 October | Palace Electric Cinema, 2 Phillip Law Street | Book here.

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