Children’s International Film Festival
Image: AUNTIE RITA'S PARTY! film still
This is the fifth presentation of the Children’s International Film Festival (CHIFF) which is aimed at children from the ages of 3 to young teens. The specifically curated program consists of 21 Australian premieres from all around the world and one retrospective Australian title. The movies are all spoken in English with the exception of 2 which are spoken in French with English sub-titles.
“We are back for a fifth year of delights from all around the world to entertain, engage and mesmerise young children,” enthused Festival Director Thomas Caldwell. “With CHIFF, Australian children no longer have to miss out on amazing stories of alien visitors, adventures, fairies and trolls and our old friends the Moomins.”
Caldwell also explained that the current high quality of contemporary cinema and television for kids is a huge motivating factor behind bringing this film festival to the silver screen.
But the festival isn’t solely about movies as there are many other activities in which children can partake. Prior to the screening of Auntie Rita’s Party! Children can get into party mode and dance in the mini disco within the cinema. Children attending Billy The Cowboy Hamster may dress up as cowboys for a chance to win prizes for the best outfits. Likewise dress up as a princess for the screening of Dragon Princess, also with prize giveaways.
There are also colouring competitions, a teddy bear picnic where children can participate in an arts and crafts session, a chance to create your very own galaxy artwork and screenings of short films produced by local young filmmakers.
HOT PICKS
THE ISLAND OF LOST GIRLS (MEXICO): Three young girls must fight to survive as they are trapped in a sea cave. An adventure packed film suitable for children 8+.
THE TIGER’S NEST (ITALY): Filmed in the Himalayas the story delves on a young boy who rescues a tiger cub from poachers. Suitable for children 8+ but contains some frightening scenes.
MAIKA: THE GIRL FROM ANOTHER GALAXY (VIETNAM): The story of a young, disillusioned boy who discovers a young alien girl in a crashed spaceship. A friendship blooms. Suitable for children 9+.
