By Derek Schlennstedt
Blockbuster, art house or classic, stepping inside a ‘movie house’ to see a film in the company of others is one of the most enjoyable ways to enjoy a winter’s afternoon.
For visitors to the Yarra Ranges, The Cameo in Belgrave, The Memo in Healesville offer an opportunity to join the locals for a movie experience in a theatre that has charming links to the past along with modern technology, sound and video offering.
But, should you be in the area over 16 and 18 June you’re in luck as there’s only one place to see impressive art house and community made movies that’s at the Warburton film festival at the Mecca in Warburton.
Running over three decades, this year’s Warburton Film Festival marks its 34th year and the event is to be held at the Warburton Arts Centre over the weekend of 16 to 18 June 2017.
Offering an absolute feast of various fine films, the Warburton Film Festival, hosted by the Yarra Ranges film society offers some of the best and thought-provoking movies of the past year while acknowledging and introducing up and coming directors who produce alternative, yet fascinating documentaries and films.
Each year capacity audiences shuffle through the doors to view movies of every kind from both emerging local directors in the Yarra ranges and from Australia and of course international movies from diverse countries with various genres.
Eight highly acclaimed contemporary feature films including drama, comedy, and documentaries from five different countries will be featured and a special tribute will be given to the great Australian film director and long-time patron of Yarra Ranges society and Warburton Film Festival Society, Paul Cox, who sadly passed away last year.
Popcorn and warm cosy chairs with ground-breaking movies are the perfect recipe for a cold winter’s day and for visitors to Warburton, there is plenty to do and enjoy.
In between movies, visitors can embrace the relaxing environment with the misty Yarra River running next to the town, the grandeur of the surrounding mountains and delightful cafes. Warburton is the perfect escape and the film festival gives you the perfect excuse to visit.
