Over 300 people arrived to walk the red carpet with the local filmmaking community and were impressed by an extraordinary lineup of short films including drama, horror, comedy, documentary, sci-fi and music videos.
“This year’s festival films embody the passion, heartbreak and insight that is characteristic of filmmakers from the West,” says artistic director Ross Page.
“From laugh-out-loud moments to heart-pounding scenes, Western Sydney filmmakers are bringing the magic to the big screen yet again.”
Short films such as Dusty, which explores the confusion and chaos of grief with riotous dark humour, and MisUnderstood, a story about love, identity and acceptance, were among the award winners recognised on the night.
Local filmmakers will win awards and prizes valued at over $35,000 this year, which is the biggest prize pool in the festival’s 13-year history.
The opening night event begins Western Sydney’s #SummerofFilms as the festival’s annual MEGA Movie Marathon will screen online all summer and outdoors at Sydney Olympic Park throughout January.
The public will vote for the winner of the People’s Choice Award, to be announced at the end of the festival season. The winner will receive a $2000 cash prize, thanks to In The Park Events in association with Sydney Olympic Park.
Visit: www.madeinthewest.com.au
