Now that the Sydney Film Festival has come to an end, we wanted to give you our guide to some of the female created, or inspired, films that remind us just how wonderful independent cinema really is – girl power, all the way! Hopefully these films will make their journey to a cinema near you soon.
Embrace
(Documentary, 90mins, M15+)
The Body Acceptance movement seems to be gaining momentum, and one of its unlikely champions is Taryn Brumfitt. After having posted an unconventional before-and-after photograph in 2013—that was seen by more than 100 million people worldwide—Taryn has decided to continue her quest to raise awareness through this powerful film.
We’re always excited to see Australian females making a global impact, and through her strong message of self-acceptance, Taryn shifts the focus of bodies and physical health to that of mental health; demonstrating that our obsession with image, especially the unattainable, is doing more damage that many may suspect.
Certain Women
(American, 107mins, M15+)
In a film that’s been praised for its powerful yet subtle storytelling, Certain Women is a story about three women—told through the lens of one of America’s great female talents, Kelly Reichardt. Based on Maile Meloy’s short stories, Certain Women tells three interconnected stories of independent Montana women, as they attempt to make sense of their world.
It stars three generations of fabulous female talent, in Laura Dern, Michelle Williams and Kristen Stewart, and with a distributor like Sony Pictures behind it, many will get to enjoy this wonderful film even after the festival has ended.
Girl Asleep
(Australian, 77mins, M)
Another Australian film that’s gaining momentum is Rosemary Myers’ debut feature, Girl Asleep. Taking us back to the 1970s in Australia, where 14-year-old Greta (Bethany Whitemore) is navigating the heady ups and downs of puberty, Girl Asleep offers a surrealist world that’s as magical as it is heartfelt.
This colourful film may be targeted at teenagers, but it will have wide appeal to those of us who are still young at heart. It’s also inspiring to see Australia’s next generation of acting talent enjoying such praise.
images via Sydney Film Festival
