Sydney Film Festival: QT Sydney’s top picks

words by sophie rennard

For close to two weeks through June, Sydney’s cinephiles can get lost in the city’s silver screens, soaking up the latest and best new films from around the world thanks to the annual Sydney Film Festival, which runs from June 7-18.

Be among the first in Australia to view the latest, greatest, weirdest and most exciting work the cinema world has to offer over 12 days and nights. Plus, they don’t just screen films through this festival, there will also be inspiring talks and glam parties on offer.

Sydney Film Festival takes place at their flagship venue (and QT Sydney’s next-door neighbour) the State Theatre, as well as cinemas in the CBD, Newtown, Cremorne, Western Sydney, screening more than 200 films you won’t usually find in the multiplex.

We certainly know a thing or two about film, so here are our top five picks for just-can’t-miss movies at this year’s festival:

I am Not your Negro
Narrated by Samuel L Jackson, this mesmerising Oscar-nominated film channels the impassioned words of writer James Baldwin, one of the most incisive commentators on race in America.
Screening at: State Theatre
For dates, times and ticket, click HERE

The Untamed
A creature of another world unleashes people’s base sexual impulses in this imaginative meld of social realism and erotic sci-fi which won the Venice Silver Lion for Best Director.
Screening at: State Theatre and Dendy Newton
For dates, times and ticket, click HERE

Una
Celebrated Australian theatre director Benedict Andrews makes his film debut with this auspicious, emotionally powerful feature. Una stars Oscar-nominee Rooney Mara and Emmy-winner Ben Mendelsohn, and is based on David Harrower’s play Blackbird. Cate Blanchett directed the stage version at Sydney Theatre Company in 2007.
Screening at: State Theatre and Hayden Orpheum Cremorne
For dates, times and ticket, click HERE

Chasing Coral
The Great Barrier Reef takes centre stage in this Sundance winner that raises awareness of the dire fate of coral reefs by filming the phenomenon ‘coral bleaching’.
Screening at: Dendy Opera Quays Cinema and Event Cinemas
For dates, times and ticket, click HERE

The Public Image is Rotten
John Lydon of Public Image Ltd, aka Johnny Rotten, is in trademark full-on mode riffing on his post-Sex Pistols career. Illustrated with infamous interviews and classic tracks.
Screening at: Dendy Newton, Event Cinemas
For dates, times and ticket, click HERE

The Sydney Film Festival will be held from June 7-18 across various cinemas around the city.