by FilmInk Staff
The Armenian Film Festival Australia (AFFA) is proud to announce Zareh Nalbandian, Co-Founder of global animation studio Animal Logic, Founder and CEO of Animal Logic Entertainment and Truant Pictures, as its second Patron. Nalbandian joins Patron Gladys Berejiklian, former Premier of NSW, in supporting the festival’s mission to bring Armenian stories to Australian audiences.
The 8th annual Armenian Film Festival Australia returns to Sydney from 16 – 25 August at Event Cinemas Top Ryde, and Melbourne from 6 – 8 September at Lido Cinemas Hawthorn. This year’s festival celebrates cinematic legends and the profound connections between Australia and Armenia.
Zareh Nalbandian expressed his enthusiasm for his new role: “I’m honoured to become a Patron of the Armenian Film Festival Australia. As someone connected to both the film industry and my Armenian heritage, I’m excited to support this platform that brings unique Armenian stories to Australian audiences. The festival celebrates our rich culture and fosters understanding and appreciation across communities.”
Margaret Chater and Hourie Demirjian, Co-founders and Co-directors of AFFA, welcomed Nalbandian’s involvement: “We are thrilled to have Zareh Nalbandian join us as a Patron. His expertise in the film industry and passion for storytelling align perfectly with our mission. With Zareh and Gladys Berejiklian as our Patrons, we’re poised to elevate the festival to new heights and further strengthen the cultural bridge between Armenia and Australia.”
The festival’s highlights include:
- World Premiere of The Golden Chain of Mercy, showcasing Australia’s ANZAC connection to the Armenian genocide and the birth of Australia’s humanitarian aid effort.
- A special program commemorating legendary filmmaker Sergei Parajanov’s 100th birthday, featuring a Q&A with film historian from Armenia, Vigen Galstyan.
- A diverse array of films, including the comedy Women in Black, the animation Anahit, and Armenia’s first superhero film, Vishap
- Screenings that spotlight ongoing Armenian causes, including the situation in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh)
The Armenian Film Festival Australia continues to be a platform for powerful storytelling, cultural exchange, and raising awareness about Armenian history and contemporary issues.
For the full festival program and to purchase tickets, visit www.armenianfilmfestival.com.au. All films feature English subtitles.
