by FilmInk Staff
The Gold Coast Film Festival (GCFF) unveils their fantastic program with 4 World, 11 Australian and 4 Queensland Premieres along with the return of SIPFEST: Shorts in Paradise in this year’s festival, April 30 to May 11, 2025, at HOTA, Home of the Arts.
Included in the 12-day festival are some incredible events featuring the Gold Coast Film Festival Awards Gala including the Chauvel Award, Women in Film Lunch, Script to Screen, Emerge! Student Shorts Gala and two jam packed industry events alongside Red-Carpet screenings, and filmmaker Q&As.
FILM HIGHLIGHTS
The Red Carpet will be rolled out for Opening Night on Wednesday April 30 from 5:30pm for the Australian Premiere of THE BALLAD OF WALLIS ISLAND, a Sundance Film Festival favourite directed by James Griffiths and starring Tim Key, Tom Basden, and Carey Mulligan.
Closing out the festival on Sunday May 11 from 5:30pm is the World Premiere of BLUE HORIZON where you will walk the Red Carpet with stars Pete Murray (the musicians first feature film), David Cook, Damian McCoy and Chantal Elyse along with writer and director, Gold Coast’s own Josh Hale.
Excitingly, GCFF brings our beloved Gold Coast singer, songwriter, and television personality, Peter André, back home to walk the Red Carpet at the World Premiere of JAFAICAN.
In his first lead role in a feature film, the Benowa State High graduate’s bold new comedy-drama JAFAICAN is packed with heart and high stakes. André stars as Gazza, a small-time crook desperate to raise £35,000 for his gran’s care. When he stumbles upon a risky tip, Gazza hatches a daring plan — mastering Jamaican culture in just 21 days to pull off an audacious fraud spanning London and Jamaica.
The ’90s pop star André, who gained fame with hits like “Mysterious Girl” and “Flava”, both reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart, will also treat guests to a pop-up mini concert as he performs the title track of the film prior to the screening.
In 2025, we see the return of our Festival Ambassador and Gold Coast local, Lincoln Lewis and this year, we invite you to walk the Red Carpet with cast and crew at the World Premiere of his latest feature film, HAGAR’S HUT also starring Kasey Chisholm and directed by Stephen Osborne.
This gripping drama follows Skye, a young girl escaping abuse, who finds refuge in the wild where she meets the mysterious Xan. As reality blurs with illusion, HAGAR’S HUT delivers a powerful tale of resilience and survival.
Award-winning star of film, television, and theatre, Erik Thomson will walk the Red Carpet at the Queensland premiere of Kangaroo Island, joined by director Timothy David.
Starring Rebecca Breeds as struggling actress Lou Wells, the film follows her reluctant return to Kangaroo Island at the urging of her estranged father, Rory (Thomson). As family tensions rise and long-buried secrets emerge, Lou discovers that no matter how far you go, home is always part of you.
Writer, director, producer and actress Jane Larkin’s powerful film THE EDGE has its World Premiere, starring Australian Powerlifter Lily Riley and Japanese Paralympic Swimmer, Mei Ichinose also joining us on the Red Carpet.
Set in the world of elite sport, the film dives deep into themes of friendship, heritage, sexuality, and morality, offering a gripping and emotional portrayal of life in and beyond competition.
Inspired by true events, the Australian Premiere of MY EYES will be supported by the filmmakers on the Red Carpet and followed by a Q&A session. This deeply moving family drama stars Adam Garcia (Coyote Ugly, Bootmen) and Tsu Shan Chambers (Suka, Remnant), delivering a powerful story about the strength of unconditional love followed by an exclusive in-cinema Q&A.
Ever wanted to go behind the scenes of the Australian Open and see what goes into becoming a coveted ball kid? GCFF has the Australian Premiere of BALLKIDS where you follow the sweaty, teary and ultimately triumphant journey of the country’s best ball kids as they progress through local and national trials and after, an insightful Q&A with the filmmakers.
Celebrating bold Australian storytelling, the Gold Coast Film Festival proudly hosts the Australian Premieres and Red Carpet Galas of MY TAI, CARNAL VESSELS, and CARMEN & BOLUDE. These powerful films showcase diverse voices, compelling narratives, and fearless filmmaking, each bringing a unique perspective to the big screen. With star-studded premieres and exclusive filmmaker appearances, these must-see events promise an unforgettable celebration of homegrown talent.
Documentary storytelling is a vital part of cinema, offering powerful insights into real life stories, cultures, and issues. The Gold Coast Film Festival is proud to showcase a compelling selection of documentaries, including the Australian Premiere of 7 BEATS PER MINUTE, following freediving champion Jessea Lu who nearly died during a world-record attempt, and PAVEMENTS, about the iconic ’90s indie band which appears to be just another music documentary, until it doesn’t.
QUEENS OF CONCRETE, follow three teenage girls as they pursue Olympic history in Skateboarding, THE HAKA PARTY INCIDENT which prompted the nation to confront systemic racism and investigate change for a better and more equal partnership between Pakeha and Māori along with THE CIGARETTE SURFBOARD, and ARCHITECTON, from master documentarian Victor Kossakovsky.
The Gold Coast Film Festival proudly showcases a diverse selection of international films that celebrate storytelling from around the world. This year’s programme features COTTONTAIL (UK, Japan), a heartfelt journey of grief and tradition; FUNNY BIRDS (France), a charming cross-generational comedy; and IRENA’S VOW (Canada, Poland), a powerful true story of courage during World War II.
Audiences will also experience the TOGETHER TO 35, the delightful French comedy JANE AUSTEN WRECKED MY LIFE, and the beautifully animated coming-of-age tale A GREYHOUND OF A GIRL (Ireland/Italy). These films highlight the richness of global storytelling, offering audiences a chance to explore unique cultures and perspectives through cinema.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
The Gold Coast Film Festival Awards Gala which will take place at the very heart of Australian filmmaking, Warner Bros. Movie World on Thursday May 1, where we are excited to announce 2025 Chauvel Award recipient is acclaimed Australian screen producer, director and writer, Robert Connolly.
His recent film THE DRY was a critical and commercial success followed by the sequel FORCE OF NATURE and BLUEBACK, screening at the Toronto International Film Festival and Sundance Film Festival. His most recent film as producer, THE SURFER premiered in Official Selection at the Cannes Film Festival this year. Robert’s other feature film credits include THE BANK, BALIBO and PAPER PLANES, working alongside international and Australian cast such as Oscar Isaac, Eric Bana and Mia Wasikowska.
The Women in Film Lunch will be held at HOTA on May 9, presented by Screen Queensland, celebrating the achievements of women in the film industry. This year we are proud to have four powerhouse panelists being;
- Anne Bruning, Production Manager (The Fall Guy, Elvis, Ghost in the Shell, King Kong)
- Michelle McGahey, Art director (The Matrix, Godzilla Versus Kong, Alien Covenant) and Production Designer (Eden, Boy Swallows Universe, True Spirit)
- Paula Garcia, Actress (Bump, Apple Cider Vinegar, Thirteen Lives)
- Kate Wormald, Choreographer and Intimacy Coordinator (Elvis, Eden, Boy Swallows Universe, How to Make Gravy, Ticket to Paradise)
GCFF is excited to announce the return of festival favourite, SIPFEST, Shorts in Paradise the Gold Coast’s premiere short film competition, held on the incredible HOTA Outdoor Stage for the third time on Saturday May 10 and is free to attend.
Showcasing 11 of the best short films from finalists’ submissions from around Australia and Internationally. The night culminates in the live announcement and presentation of the SIPFEST Category Awards. SIPFEST, Shorts in Paradise Is proudly supported by Experience Gold Coast through the EGC Arts Fund.
GCFF wraps their arms around the Gold Coast Screen Industry with two incredible Industry Events providing unparalleled insight and networking opportunities for filmmakers and industry professionals.
“What’s Next” is a full-day event on Friday May 2, focusing on the future of Queensland’s film industry, covering everything from financing and budgeting to new technology and post-production.
Attendees will gain valuable insights from leading experts, including, Gina Black (Gold Coast Film Commission) about grants and application tips, Josh Hale (Filmmaker) – Navigating filmmaking on the Gold Coast, Caleb De Leon (Creative Director, 3P) – Innovations in Post Production & Screen Technology, and Luke Wheatley (Filmmaker), Chris Brown (Producer), and Brett Thornquest (Production Accountant) – Finance Plans and production budgeting.
“Pitch in Paradise” held on Friday May 9, offers an exciting platform for filmmakers to pitch their projects directly to industry professionals. This event is ideal for those looking to sharpen skills and make valuable industry connections. Confirmed guests include:
- Cymbeline Johnson – Streaming Consultant
- Jo Chichester – ABC Factual Commissioning Editor
- Rachel Robinson – Executive Producer, ABC
- Veronica Fury – Principal, Factual Content, WildBear Entertainment
- Tracey Vieira – Chief Content Officer, Hoodlum
- Chris Brown – Producer
Luke Wheatley, GCFF CEO is excited to share the 2025 program
“The 2025 Gold Coast Film Festival is set to be our most exciting yet, with a bold and diverse programme that celebrates incredible storytelling from Australia and around the world. From red carpet galas and world premieres to inspiring industry events, GCFF continues to champion filmmakers, connect audiences, and showcase the Gold Coast as a vibrant hub for cinema. We can’t wait to welcome film lovers, industry professionals, and storytellers to experience the magic of the festival.”
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate
“We have so much to celebrate across the city’s dynamic film industry. The festival brings together our rich talent to recognise their contributions over the past year. It is also a chance to look ahead over the horizon at the amazing productions in store for 2026 and beyond.”
Jacqui Feeney, CEO, Screen Queensland shares her excitement for the Queensland Film Industry
“The Gold Coast Film Festival is the perfect occasion to celebrate the diverse world of film and filmmakers right here in Queensland. This year’s program is a testament to both the global reach and the local impact of the Gold Coast as a premiere screen production hub, featuring industry days, Australian premieres and annual favourite SIPFEST. Screen Queensland is proud to support the Gold Coast Film Festival which includes seven films produced in Queensland, showcasing locally made stories to local audiences, including Jane Larkin’s sports drama THE EDGE and World Premiere of HAGAR’S HUT featuring Gold Coast local Lincoln Lewis (‘GOOD COP/BAD COP).”
Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell says
“The Gold Coast’s cultural character is brought to life during this popular 12-day festival and with that comes endless opportunity for local industry professionals and tourism operators, which is wonderful to see, We are so proud to support this festival, and I encourage everyone to get amongst the many events and showings, including the outdoor screenings which perfectly incorporate the Gold Coast lifestyle while showcasing incredible talent through local and international films.”
Tickets are on sale now to all Opening and Closing Night Red Carpet Galas and our incredible featured events through www.gcff.com.au and tickets to the full program for GCFF will be available from Thursday April 3.
The Gold Coast Film Festival is supported by the Queensland Government through Screen Queensland, Tourism and Events Queensland along with Experience Gold Coast, the City of Gold Coast and home venue HOTA, Home of the Arts
