For its 71st year, MIFF promises more of what we’ve come to expect (and look forward to): the best of cinema from around the world, highly engaging documentaries and festival circuit favourites. As ever, international films will take centre stage. Korean-Canadian filmmaker Celine Song’s directorial debut Past Lives, about the reunion of two childhood friends, premiered in competition at the Berlinale and is already tipped as an Oscar contender. Melbournians can also look forward to a stunning lineup of local films including Mark Leonard Winter’s The Rooster, starring Hugo Weaving and Phoenix Raei and set in regional Victoria; This Is Going To Be Big, which follows students and staff at a specialist school in the Macedon Ranges preparing for their John Farnham-themed musical. MIFF's Artistic Director, Al Cossar, joins Around Town with his festival tips and tricks. 

Featured on today's episode: 

• The Melbourne International Film Festival

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Broadsheet Melbourne Around Town is hosted by Katya Wachtel and produced by Nicola Sitch.

Deirdre Fogarty is the Executive Producer.

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