Australia has always made, and continues to make, good films. Looking through the history, from archival classics through to more contemporary films, this is blatantly evident. However, not many audiences are given the opportunity to see Australian films on the big screen, especially older films that were released many years ago, and the impact of seeing these films up on the big screen for the first time cannot be underestimated. I am honoured to be a patron of the Big Screen film festival as I believe its work is crucial. It is a festival that is integral to the ongoing survival and promotion of the Australian film industry. Taking new and old Australian films to remote and often isolated audiences opens up creative experiences to people who would have otherwise had no such opportunity. It is vital that Australian stories and Australian voices are seen and heard all around the country to ensure an ongoing National identity is reflected upon and explored within the film medium. It is only through showing Australian films to wider Australian audiences and through looking back into our history and celebrating the films that were made that we are able to move forward within the industry in the present day. - Alyssa McClleland |
