A chance for budding filmmakers to shine with The 48-Hour Film Frenzy Shoot Out
When: 20-22 March
Where: Geelong
For those looking for a real creative challenge, the 48-Hour Film Frenzy is the ultimate test. Teams of all ages and abilities will race against the clock to write, shoot, and edit a 4–7 minute short film in just one weekend. No professional experience? No problem! Whether you’re using a smartphone or a professional camera, it’s all about creativity and passion. The films will be screened at The Pivotonian, and winners will be announced in a thrilling showcase. This annual event under the Geelong Waterfront Film umbrella showcases the upcoming filmmakers of the region. The next Spielberg, are you out there?
Local Film Screenings at The Pivotonian
The REEL Film Festival wouldn’t be complete without showcasing the incredible local talent of Geelong, Surf Coast, and Bellarine. Many of these films are created by filmmakers who live in or have ties to the region, offering a true sense of connection to place. With some Q&A sessions on offer, audiences will have the chance to hear directly from the filmmakers about their process, challenges, and creative journeys.
Here are the sessions:
Stelarc – Suspending Disbelief (MA 15+)
When: 5 March, 7:45 PM
This boundary-pushing biopic takes a deep dive into the life of Stelarc, an Australian artist who has spent decades testing the limits of the human body through outrageous public art performances. Directed by Richard Moore, the film explores Stelarc’s radical approach to art and body modification, all while offering a fascinating window into the mind of a true visionary. Stick around after the screening for a live post-film Q&A with the filmmaker.
Yesterday’s Hero
When: 24 March, 6 PM
A rollicking comedy about a down-on-his-luck comedian (Chris Franklin) who finds fleeting fame in Hollywood, Yesterday’s Hero combines humour with heart. The film was shot over 20 years ago, but after discovering the magic of AI, filmmaker Cameron Miller was able to complete the project by reworking old footage and shooting new scenes to bring the story into the present. Miller’s rewritten and shot new scenes add an unexpected modern twist to this charming Aussie comedy.
A Triple Shot of Shorts
Lara – A Geelong Drama
When: 9 April, 7:30 PM
Set in the tranquil town of Lara, this drama follows Emily (played by Olivia Fildes), a burned-out photographer who finds herself confronting questions about her future during a visit to her boyfriend’s sister. Leah Baulch, supported by a Geelong Waterfront Film Grant, has crafted a film that delves deep into the personal and artistic struggles of its protagonist. With a quiet, contemplative tone, Lara is a beautiful exploration of the crossroads we all face in life.
Daisy – A Love Story That Defied Expectations
When: 9 April
Based on the true story of writer Cassidy Krygger’s great-grandparents, Daisy takes place in 1930s Australia and tells the powerful story of a young woman who risks everything for a forbidden love affair. With 19 international awards, including Best Indie Film at the Top Shorts Film Festival, Daisy has captivated audiences worldwide with its compelling narrative and exquisite performances. Filmed at the iconic Barwon Mansion, this film is a testament to the resilience of love in the face of adversity.
Mother of Chooks – A Quirky Documentary
When: 9 April
In this charming documentary, Elaine finds new purpose in life after losing her sister, when she discovers an unlikely companion: a chicken named Flapper. This quirky, heartwarming story is filled with humour and heart, showing how Elaine becomes a local legend and advocates for a new perception of chickens. Mother of Chooks has been screened at festivals worldwide, including Hot Docs and Doc Edge, and has earned numerous accolades, including a Jury Citation Award at the Thomas Edison Film Festival.
NIFFA (National Indian Film Festival of Australia)
When: 18-22 March
Where: Reading Cinemas Waurn Ponds
In a first for Geelong, the National Indian Film Festival of Australia (NIFFA) joins the REEL Film Festival, showcasing the best of Indian cinema and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Indian, South Asian, and Indian-Australian cinema. The festival will include a range of Indian-language films (with English subtitles), alongside family-friendly screenings and a Bollywood Dance Party. Join Q&As with filmmakers and actors, and experience the magic of Bollywood like never before!
Tickets & Bookings
Tickets for workshops, panels, and screenings are available through the official REEL Film Festival website and Eventbrite. Some events are free, while others require bookings in advance, so make sure to secure your spot early.
From thought-provoking dramas to quirky documentaries, fast-paced filmmaking challenges to global cinema, the REEL Film Festival has something for everyone. Join Geelong Waterfront Film in celebrating our region’s creative talents, fostering a growing film culture, and experiencing the vibrant power of storytelling.
Come for the films. Stay for the stories. Grab some popcorn and support the future of screen creation in our region.
