C&G’s Guide to MIFF 2017

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Baysiders, our favourite three-week-long celebration of film is almost upon us!

The Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) is not only one of the oldest film festivals in the world, it’s one of the most creative and inspired festivals in Australia - and it’s back this August. Here is C&G’s guide to some unforgettable screen experiences for 2017. 

Opening Night Gala

Start the Melbourne International Film Festival in style at 2017’s Opening Night Gala. The 66th Melbourne International Film Festival will kick off with the World Premiere of Jungle, Greg McLean's incredible survival thriller, starring Daniel Radcliffe. Jungle tells the spectacular true story of Yossi Ghinsberg, an Israeli adventurer, who trekked into the Amazon as a 22-year-old in 1981. Following the film, ticket holders are invited to mingle with festival guests, VIPs and industry leaders on the blue carpet, enjoying cocktails and canapés in the Regent Theatre and Plaza Ballroom. It's bound to be an unforgettable evening of fantastic film and festivity- and an opportunity to get a little bit fancy.

Aussie Film at its Finest

Are you ready to laugh along with some of Australia’s favorite actors? Ben Elton’s Three Summers brings to the screen a cast of familiar faces including Magda Szubanski, Michael Caton, Deborah Mailman, Jacqueline McKenzie and John Waters. We love nothing more than an Aussie comedy, and this one will be a beauty. Three Summers will premiere at MIFF’s Centrepiece Gala, which celebrates the festival’s halfway point. In true MIFF style, there is an afterparty with DJs, drinks and dancing. MIFF will be rolling out the red carpet so grab your tickets today.

MIFF 2017 will also bring unique Indigenous stories to the big screen including The Song Keepers, a joyous film that shares how the world’s Indigenous cultures are preserving some of the world’s oldest sacred songs. Premiering at MIFF, the full choir will be in attendance and may be talked into sharing a song! Information here. There is so much great Australian storytelling to enjoy at MIFF 2017, check back in after July 11 for the full program.  

MIFF for the Kids

For the little film buffs in your family The MIFF Kids' Gala returns in 2017 with the Australian premiere of Rock Dog, a new film by Toy Story 2 co-director Ash Brannon. Cob’s Popcorn will be on snack duty and there will be fun and festivities before the screening, so round up the kids and join MIFF on the festival’s final Saturday!

The Melbourne International Film Festival runs from August 3 to 20, with tickets on sale now. For more information, visit the MIFF website.