Lebanese Film Festival’s back with a bang

It will kick off tomorrow (Thursday, August 15) at the Bryan Brown Theatre, Bankstown, with an exquisite evening that will transport audiences straight to the heart of Beirut.
The festival will be held until August 31 and feature screenings across various Sydney locations, including Bankstown primarily, with an impressive line-up of 34 films, including 11 feature films, 13 short films, 10 documentaries, two animations and three retrospectives.
On Saturday, August 24, a full day of free short film and documentary screenings at Bankstown Arts Centre will inspire minds with a unique glimpse into contemporary Lebanese filmmaking, while filling bellies with a big Lebanese barbecue.
LFF Co-Director Jessica Zeait said this year’s program would shed a new light on Lebanon and reflect different perspectives on its challenges.
“This year’s films delve deep into Lebanon’s pains, celebrations and perseverance, reflecting the heart and soul of the country,” Ms Zeait said.
“We’re taken aback by the resilience and determination of Lebanon’s film industry.”
The first LFF debuted in Bankstown in 2012 and was viewed by around 900 people, and it has since grown into the world’s largest festival of its kind, attracting thousands.
Mayor Bilal El-Hayek said the festival was a fantastic celebration of one of the City’s largest communities.
“I encourage everyone to support the Lebanese Film Festival, be entertained and learn more about the wonderful Lebanese culture, traditions and people.”
Tickets and information: lff.org.au.