From Cannes to CinefestOZ

The festival’s jam-packed five-day program for 2021 showcases everything there is to love about Australian film, as well as some of the region’s best food and wine through a series of glittering red-carpet events and unique in-conversation dining experiences with the film makers.

At the heart of the festival is the coveted CinefestOZ Film Prize which recognises excellence in Australian film and bestows Australia’s largest film prize ($100,000AUD).  In the running this year is Nitram and The Drover’s Wife: The Legend of Molly Johnson – both of which are screening fresh from the international festival circuits – as well as Here Out West and River. 

According to CinefestOZ Chair,  Helen Shervington, the 2021 finalists highlight the diversity and complexity of storytelling at this year’s festival.

“I’m proud to say the 2021 Film Prize finalists are fantastic,” Shervington said.  “The range and creativity shown across all four films is exactly why supporting Australian storytelling through filmmaking is so important.”

In addition to the Film Prize Finalists, Cinefest OZ is excited to screen the world premier of Facing Monsters – a West Australian documentary about big wave surfing – as well as the world premier of the highly anticipated Akoni, which tells the story of a Nigerian refugee and his struggle to integrate into Australian Society.

So whether you’re a movie buff, or looking for to add some art and culture into your next getaway to the Margaret River Region, CinefestOZ is for you.

Tickets for all events are now on sale, with the festival taking place from 25-29 August.

• Secure accommodation and enjoy the event from 25-29 August 2021.
• Browse the festival program and decide which of the live and online screenings and special events you would like to attend.
• Stay up to date via the event’s Facebook, Instagram or sign up for news via the CinefestOZ website.

Cinepasses are the ultimate ‘golden’ tickets to the festival.

• Festival Cinepass: The ultimate CinefestOZ 2021 premium experience.  Guarantees access to all premieres, screenings and special events.
• Short Film Cinepass: Watch over 30 of the best new Australian short films at either the Esplanade Hotel Busselton or Margaret River HEART.  Then be part of the live CinefestOZ Short Film award announcements.
• Online Short Film Cinepass: Can’t make it to WA?  Prefer to watch from home? This online-only pass gives you the freedom to watch a bunch of awesome shorts from your home.

Combine a love of film and extend your weekend in the Margaret River Region.

Wander out yonder and explore natural phenomena, ancient limestone caves, towering karri forests, a thriving arts scene, or sample the culinary delights of a renowned food scene with world-class wines, boutique breweries and friendly locals.

Top things to do:

• Busselton Jetty’s Underwater Observatory
• Explore Jewel or Ngilgi limestone caves
• Sample premium wine and boutique brews
• Whale watching in Augusta
• Visit a lighthouse
• Watch sunset over the Indian Ocean