Critically acclaimed feature documentary Zach’s Ceremony will be screening at SAE Creative Media Institute’s Brisbane campus for students and available digitally to the general public for free on November 12th, as part of NAIDOC activities across Australia.
Described by Adam Goodes as ‘a film that has the power to change Australian society’, Zach’s Ceremony explores what it means to be a young man belonging to the oldest living culture on the planet. The documentary was filmed over five years and follows teenager Zach on his path to self-discovery in both the modern world and his ancient culture.
Director Alec Doomadgee (Zach’s father) and Impact Producer Barbara Taylor will be at the screening on November 12th, where there will be an opportunity for Q&A’s.
Alec is an Aboriginal activist, a respected leader amongst his people and peers as a Tribal Lore man and Warrior for the “Knowledge Keepers”. Alec conceptualised Zach’s Ceremony over a decade ago.
“The original concept for the film was to show the different world that I lived in; working in the media industry, and then being involved with my culture.” said Alec.
“As it evolved, naturally the camera turned to Zach. I figured if I could tell the story of our world, our culture and ceremonies through the eyes of a child, mainstream Australia would let down their guard and see the beauty of our people.” he said.
Barbara Taylor studied a Bachelor of Film at SAE’s Byron Bay campus, and gained the skills needed to succeed as a filmmaker. Her role as Impact Producer on the film was to think about its impact, its key message, and its audience, and align that with strategies that enable the film and its message to reach those people.
“This skill, this platform, not only captures our current zeitgeist, it enables us to shift perspectives and radiate a sense of inclusion that grows stronger every day. It gives minorities a voice and a chance to be heard. That’s pretty inspiring.” she says.
General Manager of SAE Australasia Matt Evans is excited to see SAE alumni leveraging the creative industries for positive social impact in the community.
“We’re not only honoured to host the screening of Zach’s Ceremony, an important film that highlights a powerful message during NAIDOC week, but also to welcome back one of our alumni. We’re incredibly proud of Barbara’s achievements and are looking forward to welcoming her and Alec to campus as they share this inspiring piece of work with current students and the broader community.” he said.
Zach’s Ceremony celebrates the beauty of Aboriginal culture and to empower emerging generations to change the story to one of positivity and hope.
This NAIDOC week, the filmmakers are inviting viewers to immerse themselves in Zach’s world and see it through his eyes.
EVENT DETAILS
Venue: Brisbane SAE campus
Date: Thursday, 12th November
Who: Alec Doomadgee (Director), Barbara Taylor (Impact Producer)
Time: 2-4pm
Eventbrite link: https://www.eventbrite.de/e/zachs-ceremony-tickets-126916607991
OTHER LINKS:
Trailer – https://youtu.be/wgt7Qh5fIm8
Vox Pops – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7u8vqXMLoA
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