Tropfest turned on crowds despite the rain
An estimated 70,000 people packed their blankets, and if they were lucky, umbrellas to watch Tropfest’s quick flicks on Sunday, February 19.
Despite a rainstorm which dispersed the crowds, devoted fans stayed at the Domain until the end to see the story of a neighbourhood refreshment stand claim the top prize.
The world’s largest short film festival and one of Sydney’s favourite cultural events was celebrating its 20th birthday this year. It was one of the biggest years to date, featuring Geoffrey Rush, Cate Blanchett, Toni Collette, Nicole Kidman, among others on the judging panel.
Ms Blanchett, who said she was hoping for “something fabulous” in the films, awarded the top gong to Melbourne’s Alethea Jones for “Lemonade Stand”.
Ms Jones, who admitted to signing up to Centrelink two weeks ago, can expect over $100,000 in cash prizes and to be wooed by the international film community.
Entries from the 16 finalists covered everything from grief to comedy. Winning the Telstra Crowd Pleaser award was “Boo” – the story of an elderly couple who revelled in practical jokes and went one step too far.
Tropfest’s humble beginnings are now part fable. Started by John Polson in 1993, the original event was staged at Darlinghurst’s Tropicana Cafe because Mr Polson could not afford to rent a theatre.
Fast-forward 20 years and the event has a live audience of 150,000 across Australia, and has spawned Tropfests everywhere from New York, to Berlin and Abu Dhabi. Australia’s festivities now last the whole weekend and this year included Trop Junior, for under-15 filmmakers.
The Festival criteria has remained unchanged through the years. Entries need to be a first festival entry for filmmakers, must stick to the under seven-minute guideline, and must include the Tropfest Signature Item. This year, it was a light bulb.
With over 700 entries one would assume that Tropfest would start to favour those with bigger budgets at their fingertips. But, the Festival seems to stay true to its indie roots. Last year’s winner was made for just $85 and was a critic and crowd favourite. Ms Jones, an aspiring director and choreographer said she hoped her prize would lead to more directing gigs.
As for next year, Mr Polson said he wondered if February was the best month for Tropfest. He said he may consider bringing it forward to avoid the often wet weather.
By Rachel Zerr
