Big Picture Film Festival 2014

Overview

Big Picture is one festival that'd have Banksy's backing. "Film is incredibly democratic and accessible," he said after making Exit Through the Gift Shop. "It's probably the best option if you actually want to change the world, not just redecorate it."

The creators of Big Picture agree. That's why they've put together 17 documentaries and fictional films that "take a stand against social inequality", showing how "involvement, passion and commitment can bring about positive change". Curated by Eddie Cockrell, the event is backed by five ambassadors — David Stratton, Tom Keneally, Jessica Rowe, Michael Kirby and Tracey Spicer.

This year's highlights include Half of a Yellow Sun, a drama about four individuals struggling to establish a republic in Nigeria; Belle, a 2013 British film based on the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle, the mixed-race daughter of a British Naval officer; Beatriz's War, East Timor's first ever feature film; and The Missing Picture, which was Oscar-nominated for its recreation of the atrocities conducted by the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia during the late 1970s.

As well as its Event Cinemas George Street sessions, the Big Picture Film Festival will also hold screenings at Event Cinemas Liverpool and the Casula Powerhouse.