DRAMAS
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BACKSTAGE
Palace Byron Bay
Set against the captivating backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, Backstage follows the riveting journey of the "Without Borders" dance company as they conclude their Moroccan tour. A startling incident during their penultimate show in a mountain town spirals into a desperate quest.
Aida, a central dancer and co-choreographer, inadvertently provokes her partner Hedi during a performance, resulting in a severe injury witnessed by the entire troupe. Urgent medical attention is needed, prompting an unexpected detour.
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BLACK DOG
Palace Byron Bay
On the edge of the Gobi desert in Northwest China, Lang returns to his hometown after being released from jail. While working for the local dog patrol team to clear the town of stray dogs before the Olympic Games, he strikes up an unlikely connection with a black dog. These two lonely souls now embark on a new journey together.
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SASQUATCH SUNSET
Palace Byron Bay
In the misty forests of North America, a family of Sasquatches—possibly the last of their enigmatic kind— embark on an absurdist, epic, hilarious, and ultimately poignant journey over the course of one year. These shaggy and noble giants fight for survival as they find themselves on a collision course with the ever-changing world around them. Starring Riley Keough and Jesse Eisenberg, acclaimed directors David and Nathan Zellner (Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter) bring you the greatest Bigfoot story ever told.
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THE MATRIARCH
Palace Byron Bay
Hell hath no fury like a mother scorned...
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THE MOON IS UPSIDE DOWN
Palace Byron Bay
Three very different women's lives fleetingly intersect as they search for belonging in an upside down world.
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THE SEED OF THE SACRED FIG
Palace Byron Bay
Winner of the Cannes Film Festival Fipresci Award, The Seed Of The Sacred Fig was received with record breaking ovation, voted top film in Screen International Critics Grid for Cannes 2024 and displays the true power of cinema to change us and the world we live in!
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WE WERE DANGEROUS
Palace Byron Bay + Palace Ballina Fair
In 1954 New Zealand Nellie and Daisy attempt to escape the institution for delinquent girls, however not only are they caught, it triggers a relocation to a facility on a remote island. The duo become a trio as well-to-do Lou joins them, and life on the island takes shape under the command of devout Matron.
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YOUNG AUSTRALIAN FILMMAKER OF THE YEAR
Palace Byron Bay
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.
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Palace Byron Bay
An array of award-winning films from Australia, Norway, Gambia, and beyond, each deeply rooted in its unique cultural context yet universally resonant. This eclectic lineup features both light-hearted, quirky narratives and powerful dramas, exploring the complex tapestry of human emotions and relationships. Highlighted in this session are several nominees for the Best Short Film Award at BBFF2024, underscoring the quality and impact of these works.