BBFF returns in 2021 with a special edition programme of inspiring and uplifting films
The Byron Bay International Film Festival (BBFF) returns this month with a condensed program of eight feature-length films and a range of shorts designed to inspire hope and strength in a wider Northern Rivers community wearied by nearly two years of COVID-19.
“We are screening several films that carry a strong positive message – of courage, resilience and optimism, that inspire faith in the power of people to get through challenging times. Conversely, some also shine a light on the shadow side and fragility of humanity, prompting us to self-reflect and re-examine our attitudes and behaviours around concepts such as injustice, ” says long-term BBFF director J’aimee Skippon-Volke.
Providing a welcome diversion from the stress of Christmas busyness, they’re a satisfying alternative to the Christmas blockbusters.
Themed ‘Shining Light in Darkness’, BBFF’s 2021 offering includes a mind-expanding documentary about the nature of consciousness, a study of young American men who resisted conscription to Vietnam, the story of one woman’s courageous battle against genetically modified crops in India, a candid portrait of Lennox Head artist Mark Waller and a chronicle of how a top Australian metalcore band took up the climate change challenge.
Originally scheduled for October, the 2021 festival has been tailored to restrictions imposed due to the pandemic. The revised format allows filmmakers to connect with cinema audiences while giving film lovers the pleasure of watching their works on a full-sized cinema screen once more.
“COVID-19 has devastated the local arts industry and our aim is to keep creativity alive in a safe and enjoyable way,” Skippon-Volke says.
The time is right for such films which provide uplifting feelings of hope and possibility following over 20 months of disturbance, division and despair.
“They are celebrations of the human spirit, and we are looking forward to our community coming together once more to join in that celebration,” Skippon-Volke says.
“In 2020 we successfully modified our format to hold a safe and entertaining festival, and are confident we can do so again.”
BBFF2021 opens with Meet the Wallers at Lennox Head Cultural Centre on Friday, December 17, and continues for another four days at Palace Cinemas in Byron Bay.