Concrete Playground

Blackfella Films directors Rachel Perkins and Darren Dale are once again taking over the Opera House for a long weekend of Indigenous film celebrations. Now in its 11th year, Message Sticks Indigenous Film Festival uses this spectacular setting to showcase the latest cinematic works from Indigenous filmmakers across documentary, short and feature productions.

Among the 13 films screening, recent AFTRS graduate Adrian Wills will open the festival with two of his productions, the documentary Boxing for Palm Island and his short film Daniel’s 21st. The festival will also host the Australian premiere of Canadian Neil Diamond’s Reel Injun, which tracks the conceptions and portrayals of Native Americans throughout cinematic history, as well as an array of local and international short films.

While Q&A sessions will accompany each film, the festival highlight may prove to be Ernie Dingo, who will be hosting a sing-along screening of Rachel Perkin’s recent musical hit Bran Nue Dae. This delightful feature stars Geoffrey Rush, Missy Higgins and Australian Idol winner Jessica Mauboy. Considering tickets are free, be sure get to the Opera House early so you don’t miss out on the fun.