MIFF Summer Screenings: Shayda

The Melbourne International Film Festival returns to Bunjil Place to present some of the best from the 2023 festival.

Presented over four nights under the stars, complete with live performances, Q&A with filmmakers, mouthwatering menu and delicious drinks – this is a cinematic experience not to be missed! 

Tickets are $10 and include complimentary beverage on arrival. 

This film is classified M and is recommended for mature audiences. It contains stroboscopic imagery; strong impact domestic violence themes; discussion of sexual violence. This film is Open Captioned for deaf audiences. 

_{The event will be moved in doors in the case of bad weather.}

EVENT SCHEDULE

• 7.00 pm: Gates Open & Pre-film live performance by Alwan Middle Eastern Ensemble 
• 8.00 pm: Feature film – Shayda (M) 
• 10.00 pm:  Event ends 

Shayda 

پاییز شیدا  

Cannes Best Actress winner Zar Amir-Ebrahimi (Holy Spider, MIFF 2022) anchors this Sundance Audience Award–winning portrait of a mother seeking a new life for herself and her daughter. 

Shayda, a brave Iranian mother, finds refuge in an Australian women’s shelter with her six-year-old daughter. Over Persian New Year, they take solace in Nowruz rituals and new beginnings, but when her estranged husband re-enters their lives, Shayda’s path to freedom is jeopardised. 

Supported by the MIFF Premiere Fund, the accomplished feature debut from MIFF Accelerator Lab alumna Noora Niasari (Tâm, MIFF 2020; Waterfall, MIFF 2017) was produced by Vincent Sheehan and Niasari, and executive-produced by Cate Blanchett. While forthright about the challenges of healing for those who have survived domestic violence, the film also shines a light on the indomitable hope that propels its spirited, beautifully complex characters. With affecting lead performances from Amir-Ebrahimi and newcomer Selina Zahednia – alongside Leah Purcell (The Drover’s Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson, MIFF 2021), Jillian Nguyen (Hungry Ghosts), Osamah Sami (Ali’s Wedding, MIFF 2017), Mojean Aria (KAPO; Reminiscence) and Rina Mousavi (Itch) – Shayda is a moving story of resilience, the desire for independence, and the sacrifices and strength of a mother’s love. 

“Powerful … The greatest asset of Shayda is its unmistakably feminine spirit of perseverance, one that runs wild and free in this promising debut.” – Variety 

Alwan Middle-Eastern Ensemble 

Experience the vibrant tapestry of Middle Eastern music with the Alwan Middle-Eastern Ensemble, led by the talented Yuval Ashkar, an Israeli oud player, singer, and percussionist. Joined by Phil Carroll on accordion, ney flute, duduk, and vocals, and Matt Stonehouse on percussion, the ensemble weaves together sublime Turkish, Arabic, and Israeli melodies. Yuval Ashkar, trained by oud master Yair Dalal, brings a wealth of experience from performances with Ladino singer Yasmin Levi. Phil Carroll, having lived in Turkey, adds a rich layer to the ensemble's sound. Together, they have graced numerous festivals and prestigious venues, captivating audiences with their soulful and rhythmic exploration of Middle Eastern music. Don't miss the opportunity to be enchanted by Alwan Middle-Eastern Ensemble's mesmerizing performances at various festivals, cultural events, and acclaimed venues across Australia.