40 Film Marathon | Sydney Film Festival 2024 | Viewings 11-15

#11 THE HOME GAME

Director | Smari Gunn, Logi Sigursveinsson

Country | Iceland

This feel-good sports doco follows one man’s determined quest to stage a home game on the football pitch his father created 25 years earlier. By registering their small town’s non-existent team in the Icelandic FA Cup, he gives himself a 50/50 shot at fulfilling his father’s dream.

Football is the only thing I love more than film, so seeing this was a no-brainer. And I’m so glad I did. It’s wholesome content that hits the heartstrings at all the right moments, leaving you grinning from ear to ear. The game footage, in particular, was a real winner with the crowd, bringing big energy to the room. It was as if we had all been lifelong fans of the team. The final moments were pure goosebump-inducing cinema. There’s a reason it’s called the beautiful game, and this magical little film captures it perfectly. An incredibly hilarious and heartwarming story that scores big. This one comes highly recommended, not just for football fans, but for anyone who loves an underdog.

Rating | 4/5

#12 SKATEGOAT

Director | Van Alpert

Country |Australia / USA

Leandre Sanders, born in Venice Beach, LA, grew up surrounded by gangs and crime. While his older brother falls victim to street life, Leandre finds solace in skateboarding at Venice Beach skatepark, earning the nickname “Skategoat.” Filmmaker Van Alpert discovered his talent at age 11 and spent the next decade documenting Leandre’s journey to perfect his skills and survive his tough environment.

I’ve never been one to skate but I’ve always admired films that represent the art form, and this one ranks with the best. It’s got such a smooth style that seriously shreds and perfectly matches the incredible skill on display. The music is a real standout here too. The soundtrack and score are meticulously crafted, adding an extra layer of emotion to the film. Everything is flawlessly stitched together from footage spanning some 15 years – which is crazy. Director Van Alpert’s hard work and passion shine through in every frame. Leandre Sanders’ story is incredible and deserves to be seen on the big screen. Anyone who watches will walk out feeling inspired, and that’s what cinema is all about. A special little film with a whole lot of heart. See it in cinemas when it is officially released in August; you won’t be disappointed.

Rating | 4.5 / 5

#13 STRESS POSITIONS

Director | Theda Hammel

Country | USA

Terry Goon (John Early) is under strict quarantine in his ex-husband’s Brooklyn townhouse, caring for his nephew, Bahlul (Qaher Harhash), a 19-year-old Moroccan model bedridden with a full leg cast. Amidst the lockdown chaos, everyone in Terry’s life is eager to meet the model, adding to the already tense situation.

The film effectively captures the hysteria of the COVID-19 lockdown. The chemistry between the cast is excellent, with natural-flowing conversations that keep the story engaging, while its chaotic, theatre-like energy adds a whole lotta charm. Despite its brief 95-minute runtime, it occasionally feels overlong but overall, it’s a fun and vibrant depiction of quarantine life with plenty of lively moments.

Rating | 3 / 5

#14 THE MOUNTAIN

Director | Rachel House

Country | New Zealand

Set against the majestic backdrop of the Taranaki mountain, The Mountain follows the journey of three young individuals in search of solace and companionship in the spirit of adventure.

The story is cute and charming, with its heart firmly in the right place, though it tends to play it a bit too safe. While it doesn’t quite nail the quirky humour it aims for, it does handle the theme of cultural connection nicely. That Sound of da Police needle drop was bloody brilliant though.

Rating | 2.5 / 5

#15 PORCELAIN WAR 

Director | Brendan Bellomo, Slava Leontyev

Country | Ukraine

In the midst of fighter jets and missile strikes, Ukrainian artists Slava, Anya, and Andrey choose to stay behind and fight, grappling with their new roles as soldiers. Despite the chaos, they find beauty amid the destruction, proving that while fear is easily instilled, passion for life is indestructible.

Powerful stuff. The opening is superbly edited and sets the tone perfectly. The visuals are captivating, blending raw, confronting war footage with beautifully animated sequences that bring their porcelain figurine art to life. This blend of magical realism serves as a magnificent expression of art as a universal language, packing a truly impactful punch.

Rating | 4 / 5