DRAMAS
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ANATOMY OF A FALL
Palace Byron Bay
In a secluded French Alpine town, German writer Sandra and her family's serene life is upended when her husband Samuel is found dead, suspected of either suicide or murder. As Sandra becomes the prime suspect, the investigation transcends the crime, delving deep into their tumultuous relationship.
Director Triet's cinematic brilliance, underscored by haunting steel drums, earned this film the Cannes Palme d’Or 2023, making it an unforgettable watch.
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CLUB ZERO
Palace Byron Bay
Mia Wasikowska shines in this Cannes' 2023 featured film as Miss Novak, a teacher at an elite boarding school championing the idea of "conscious eating." Her innovative lessons quickly spawn a fervent student group, "Club Zero", advocating for minimalistic consumption.
Director Jessica Hausner artfully balances humor and tension, delving deep into themes of youthful rebellion, societal pressures, and the future's uncertainty. A compelling mix of style and societal critique.
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INTERNATIONAL SHORTS: POWERFUL FOREIGN FILMS
Palace Byron Bay
Showcasing films from a diverse range of countries, including Italy, Luxembourg, Argentina, and beyond, this session epitomizes the power of cinema. While each story is deeply anchored in its unique cultural context, they collectively resonate, stirring emotions and empathy. Significantly, among this global lineup are several nominees for BBFF2023's Best Short Film Award.
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LET'S GET LOST (AILLEURS SI J'Y SUIS)
Palace Byron Bay + The Regent
In this wry comedy, Mathias, at a life crossroads, mysteriously retreats into the forest, leaving everyone bewildered. His absence prompts those close to him to reevaluate their own choices, dreams, and regrets. As they seek understanding, they're compelled to reflect on life's deeper meanings and the cost of convention
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PERFECT DAYS
Palace Byron Bay
From the acclaimed director of classics like Paris, Texas, Buena Vista Social Club, Wings of Desire and The Salt of the Earth, Wim Wenders returned to the Cannes Competition this year with a poignant tale set against the backdrop of Japan. This enchanting narrative offers a contemplative exploration of the splendour in ordinary moments.
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RADICAL
Palace Byron Bay + The Regent
Children at the struggling Jose Urbina Lopez Elementary face not just academic hurdles but also violence and poverty. Hope emerges with Sergio Juarez, played by Eugenio Derbez, an innovative teacher who reignites their passion for learning.
Among his students is Paloma, aspiring to be an aerospace engineer. Christopher Zalla's "Radical", inspired by true events and a winner of Sundance's Audience Award, captures the resilience of youth and the transformative power of education.
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UNDER STREETLIGHTS
Palace Byron Bay + Lennox Head Cultural Centre
WORLD PREMIERE
Still grieving the recent death of her mother, 18-year-old American-Australian Ella meets Izak, an aspiring Australian Aboriginal hip-hop artist who works at the venue to save for his dream of professionally recording and producing his music. Ella and Izak discover their combined musical force and unanticipated common ground.
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YOUNG AUSTRALIAN FILMMAKER OF THE YEAR
Palace Byron Bay + The Regent
In the pulsating heart of the Australian film landscape lies a gem that sparkles with the promise of tomorrow: the Young Australian Filmmaker of the Year Competition. An integral part of the Byron Bay International Film Festival (BBFF) since 2007, this competition has, year after year, stood as a beacon for budding filmmakers, calling out to those who dare to dream big.