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THE 2021 Australia-Indonesia Cinema Festival (FSAI) is back on June 18-27, but this time it will be held online.
For the first time in six years, the FSAI will be held online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this actually provides an opportunity for movie lovers throughout Indonesia to be able to access them for free without having to come to the cinema.
“This is the first time we are holding FSAI virtually but we think it is a good process because everyone from all over the archipelago can watch it,” said Allaster Cox, Australian Deputy Ambassador to Indonesia in a virtual press conference on Friday (6/4).
He explained that FSAI is usually held in several big cities in Indonesia, such as Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Denpasar and Makassar. This year’s event provides a breath of fresh air for film lovers who previously could not access this festival due to limited places and locations that could not be reached.
“Before we didn’t have the opportunity to do it in Kalimantan, Papua, Maluku or Aceh, but now these films can be shown throughout the archipelago,” said Cox.
FSAI displays films of various genres. Films released this year highlight Australia’s history, diversity and creativity. FSAI 2021 opens with the Indonesian premiere of ‘The Furnace’, which follows the Australian ‘Ghan’ camel rider from South Asia, who traverses the relentless Australian desert during the Australian gold rush.
The festival will also feature many stunning views of Australia’s South West coast in ‘Jaimen Hudson: From Sky to Sea’. An inspiring documentary that follows the photographic exploration of Esperance, Australia man Jaimen Hudson about Australia’s crystal clear oceans, and the story of overcoming challenges to pursue his dreams.
As usual, FSAI will also highlight the close relationship between Australia and Indonesia in film. This year’s film lineup features notable films by Australian Indonesian alumni, including the acclaimed martial arts saga, ‘Pendekar Tongkat Emas’, and the delightful romantic comedy, ‘Milly & Mamet’.
Moviegoers can also engage their creative energy through three virtual masterclass seminar events covering animation, film promotion, and documentary and drone cinematography. FSAI 2021 friend and Australian alumni, Marissa Anita will be joining various Australian film experts to present this hands-on and interactive session.
Tickets for all screenings and events are free of charge and can be ordered through fsai2021.com. [antaranews]
