A film exploring the many challenges of living with autism has been awarded first prize in this year’s AbleFest Short Film Competition, coordinated by Parramatta City Council.
Produced by Kellyville High School’s media team, the film, ‘I’m Marcus’, is based on the true story of one of the school’s former students.
The film’s production team, which included people with and without disabilities, was involved in all aspects of the film, from script development and acting, to recording and editing.
“Parramatta City Council’s AbleFest Short Film competition is a wonderful opportunity for people with disabilities in Western Sydney to showcase their film-making talents,” said Lord Mayor of Parramatta, Councillor Paul Garrard.
“AbleFest was developed with a view to challenging some of the negative stereotyping of people with disabilities which can occur in the broader community.”
Entries must be primarily made by people with disabilities who live, work or study in Western Sydney.
The films are judged by a panel that includes members from Council’s Access Advisory committee and the Parramatta Artists Studios.
“The panel selected I’m Marcus, for the overall quality of the piece, its well-told storyline, creativity, and personal perspective of a person living with autism.
“I congratulate the film-makers on their production and hope that viewers will come away with a greater understanding of disability,” Cr Garrard said.
John Moxon from Council’s Access Advisory Committee and the AbleFest judging panel said: “I’m Marcus is a very nicely crafted video which allows us a glimpse into the world of someone with autism, particularly from their point of view, and reveals that autism need not be an insurmountable barrier to a full and successful life.”
The film can be viewed on Youtube.
