Lorne Film returns to Great Ocean Road

Lorne Film will return this month after a three-year hiatus to showcase a handful of never-before-seen Australian independent films.

Locked in for Friday July 26 to Sunday July 28, festival-goers will witness the screening of two world premieres, as well as three short film sessions, an industry panel and other events.

The films to debut are Stringybark, created by two Geelong university students, and Lee Galea’s musical drama, Filterphonic.

Ben Head, 21, and Ben Thompson, 20, are the creative duo behind period film Stringybark – the story of criminal brothers Daniel and Ned Kelly.

Having released Stringybark’s trailer earlier this year, the young filmmakers – better known by “Ben Squared Films” – said they’re excited to launch their collaborative effort in the coastal town of Lorne.

“Stringybark is exclusively screening at Lorne Film, and we can’t wait for everyone to see it,” said Ben Head.

“The story of Ned Kelly has entertained audiences for more than 100 years but has often been romanticised with the passage of time. Our film focuses on the pivotal events that earned Ned his notoriety – the murder of police officers at Stringybark Creek.”

This year’s festival will be hosted by screenwriter Darren Markey. Darren, who is one of the festival’s founders, has worked alongside Oscar-nominated Tony Shaffer and acclaimed actress Diane Cilento.

Darren said the future of Australian film is “bright”, with this year’s comeback festival attracting three times the number of short film entries compared to its 2016 counterpart.

“It’s great to see Australian independent film growing in a big way, and that filmmakers from all over the country wanted to be part of Lorne Film,” he said.

“The festival is about bringing people together in a celebration of Australian film and the beautiful location of Lorne. We’re expecting people to travel down from all over the state to experience and be part of Lorne Film’s return this year.”

Futuristic documentary 2040, directed by Damon Gameau (That Sugar Film), will also be screened at the festival.

2040 was inspired by the filmmaker’s young daughter and his concerns for her future if climate change action continues to be dismissed rather than embraced.

The film will screen at Lorne Theatre (78 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne) on Saturday July 27. For more information, visit lornefilm.com.