Other Film Festival Opens in Melbourne

Arts Minister Simon Crean and Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers, Senator Jan McLucas today welcomed the opening of Melbourne’s Other Film Festival – a festival of films by and about people with disability.

“The Other Film Festival is the only festival in Australia that is dedicated to screening films that explore the experience of living with disability,” Mr Crean said.

“Since its inception in 2004, the biennial festival has been promoting and sharing the work of filmmakers living with disability and advocating for improved access to cinemas for people with mobility and sensory impairments.

“This festival provides the opportunity for people with disability to fully enjoy the experience of going to see a film and a platform for people with disability to showcase their work and have their stories heard.

“The Australian Government recognises how important events like these are to the community which is why we have committed more than $186,000 to the festival.”

The funding to Arts Access Victoria for the festival is supporting both film makers and film goers with disability with around 36 films being shown throughout the duration of the festival.

Senator McLucas said the five-day festival will showcase the talent of those involved in the production of the films and provides a window into the lived experiences of disability.

“This festival gives people with disability a great platform to showcase their work. I’m pleased to see that this year more than 180 filmmakers from 24 countries are taking part.”

“It also provides an opportunity for people with disability to have their stories heard. It is important that we, as a community, better understand the lived experience of people with disability.”

“For too long, people with disability have felt shut out. Too often, we see the talents and possibilities of people with disability and their carers remain unrealised.

“All Australians should have the opportunity to access and participate in the cultural life of our nation, regardless of ability.”

“All films shown will be captioned and audio described, and all associated events will be Auslan interpreted, so everyone can enjoy the films, and take part in forums and question and answer sessions with directors, actors and international guests.

The funding complements additional Australian Government funding of $15,000 from Screen Australia and support from the City of Melbourne, Film Victoria, Arts Access Victoria, Perpetual Trustees, Ian Potter Foundation, Red Bee Media, Caramel Creative and the US Consulate.

The Other Film Festival runs 19 to 23 September 2012. For more information, visit www.otherfilmfestival.com.