The Turning

BACKGROUND funding, exhibition and distribution models for feature films in Australia have long been established with little variance. The kind of feature film that is made under these conditions is typically a 100-minute three-act cohesive structure with a single director. This research project puts into practice a new consideration of these models, as developed by the researcher across his career and published in a position paper for AFTRS's Centre for Screen Business, 'Embracing innovation: a new methodology for feature film production in Australia' (2010). CONTRIBUTION 'The Turning' is a cinema 'event' featuring 17 Australian directors from diverse artistic disciplines, each creating a cinematic chapter of the novel by multi award-winning author Tim Winton. The researcher was producer and curator of the 3-hour anthology. Connolly marketed the film as a movie event, which included screening with an interval at limited cinemas where audiences are given a glossy 40-page book. In his role as producer he gave complete creative control to the directors and encouraged innovative practices in regard to style, form and technical approaches to things like cameras, special effects, sounds recording and editing. The environment Connolly fostered for this group of filmmakers and actors resulted in innovative aesthetic screen practices. SIGNIFICANCE As well as innovations in artistic screen practices, this new model led to opportunities for young voices from diverse creative practices to contribute to the film industry. The research also led to innovative uses of new technology. The project attracted a high-calibre cast, including Hugo Weaving, Richard Roxburgh, Cate Blanchett, Miranda Otto and Rose Byrne. It premiered at the Melbourne International Film Festival (2013); nominated for Asia Pacific Screen Award, Best Feature Film; screened in the Berlinale Special Galas section, 64th Berlin International Film Festival. Funding from Screen Australia.