The London Australian Film Society is proud to present the UK premiere of the absorbing and poetic docufiction, FLATHEAD, followed by a live Q&A with the film’s director, Jaydon Martin.
Despite his ailing health, Cass (Cass Cumerford) leaves the big smoke of Sydney, hitting the road for his long-forsaken childhood home of Bundaberg in regional Queensland. Cass’ memories and traumas are reignited as he rediscovers Bundaberg, opening his heart to a spiritual exploration amongst the community.
The deeper Cass digs, however, the deeper his connection to his past. On this unwitting journey of self-discovery, he crosses paths with a local fish and chip shop worker, Andrew (Andrew Wong), a second generation Chinese Australian who is suddenly confronted with the death of his father. Cass and Andrew’s stories of loss intertwine, seeing them exchange emotional comfort during their most turbulent times.
Set against the rhythmic backdrop of manual work in rural Queensland, from farms to pubs to recycling centres to cleaners to factories, this stunning work weaves documentary and fiction to reveal a side of modern Australia rarely seen on screen.
Australian snacks and sweets will be on sale, and a raffle will take place before the screening.
With thanks to Jaydon Martin and Patrick McCabe.
“Jaydon Martin makes an outstanding feature debut with this absorbing, moving and visually beautiful docufiction...The film’s poetry resides in its thoughtful inactivity, its vernacular spirituality and its gentleness.”
Peter Bradshaw (The Guardian)
“an unvarnished, but striking account of life in this working class community.”
Wendy Ide (Screen Daily)
“Elegant, patient and humane... signals the emergence of a singular and considerable talent.”
Shane Danielsen (The Monthly)
WHY WE CHOSE THIS FILM
Laila (LAFF Director): “Such a haunting film. We had it lined up for the festival earlier in July but when we heard the director would be in town we simply had to give it a single screening. The narrative peels like an onion and it takes some surprising turns. It will definitely be one you will want to dissect with friends afterwards - or us! Do come and say hello and let us know what you think.”
Stephen (LAFF Co-Programmer): “
REVIEWS
“Jaydon Martin makes an outstanding feature debut with this absorbing, moving and visually beautiful docufiction...The film’s poetry resides in its thoughtful inactivity, its vernacular spirituality and its gentleness.”
Peter Bradshaw (The Guardian)
“an unvarnished, but striking account of life in this working class community.”
Wendy Ide (Screen Daily)
THE GARDEN CINEMA
39-41 Parker St, London WC2B 5PQ
NEAREST TUBE: Holborn
