Returning for its tenth year, the Human Rights Arts and Film Festival (HRAFF) brings with it a wealth of movies alive with passion and power, looking as they do at social justice issues globally. As HRAFF patron Margaret Pomeranz says, “Film and the arts have so much power to influence the way we see the world, to heighten our awareness of the plight of those in our community and in the world community.” Opening with a two-week run in Melbourne before touring highlights nationally, this year’s line-up includes another chance to see indigenous coming-of-age documentary Zach’s Ceremony and lauded refugee crisis doco Fire At Sea, as well as a brilliant selection of Australian shorts, like Dylan River’s Black Chook and Jessica O’Meara’s Loving My Mum. While there are several dramatic features, including the Palme d'Or winner Dheepan, Oscar-nominated Tanna and Bangarra Dance Theatre artistic director Stephen Page’s step into the cinematic world Spear, docos form the main thrust of the program.

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