Film Lens
Into the Shadows is a documentary that examines the state of Australian cinema, focusing on the decline of independent cinemas. Co-directors Andrew Scarano and Phil Hignett present a narrative that intertwines personal history with industry-wide issues, particularly through Scarano's connection to the Electric Shadows cinema in Canberra, where his grandfather worked for 27 years. The film captures the struggles of independent cinemas against the backdrop of big-business practices that threaten their existence.
The documentary features interviews with a range of industry professionals, including directors, actors, and distributors, providing a comprehensive view of the challenges faced by independent filmmakers. It raises critical questions about the balance between culture and profit, while also addressing why many Australian films fail to attract mainstream audiences. The film's reception indicates a mix of appreciation for its depth and criticism for its lack of clear solutions to the issues presented.
Why Watch
- •See why independent cinemas are disappearing in Australia.
- •Meet industry professionals discussing cinema's future.
- •Find out about the Electric Shadows cinema's history.
Did You Know
•Into the Shadows placed 2nd in the Audience Award for Documentary at the 2009 Canberra International Film Festival.
•Andrew Scarano aimed to document the final days of Electric Shadows cinema, where his grandfather was a projectionist for 27 years.
•Tom Ryan rated the film 3/10, while Sandra Hall rated it 3.5/5.
•The film is described as a 'love letter' to independent exhibition by SBS News.
Perfect For
Australian cinema enthusiastsIndependent filmmakersFilm history buffs