Tropfest 2017

Overview

Rally up your mates and plan one long picnic because Tropfest is back for its 25th year. This time around, the world's biggest short film festival will be held in Parramatta Park for the first year, a shift that's being heralded as an exciting opportunity for growth. With this change comes the introduction of a 'Pick Your Patch' option, allowing Troppers to reserve a premium patch of grass and gain exclusive bar and hamper access for $49. Or, you can rock up for free — but get there early.

Despite the slight changes and a recent brush with closure, one aspect guaranteed to remain is the impressive quality of the lineup, which features 16 films, all uniquely inspired by this year's iconic Tropfest signature item — a pineapple. This must appear at least once in every film, in any way, shape or form.

In an industry largely dominated by males, founder and chairman of Tropfest John Polson is proud that half of the 2017 finalists are women. "The calibre of films submitted this year was outstanding," he said. "It's wonderful to see the entrants this year reflecting a vast range of diversity and gender."

Further boosting female representation is the legendary Rose Byrne, who will be heading a stellar group of judges featuring actor Sam Neill, directors George Miller and Rachel Perkins and producer Bruno Papandrea.