Footy Shorts
Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) and the AFL, supported by VicScreen, present five short films that combine two of Melbourne’s greatest loves: film and footy.
Five filmmakers have created authentic, emotionally resonant stories that capture the deep love, traditions, myths and connections people share through Australian Rules football, whether as players, fans, families or communities – showing how the game, across its many different forms, unites and shapes Australian life.
In Mooroopna, boots hit the dirt long before they hit the big stage. Bush Boots celebrates the Indigenous footy kids and the community role models guiding them, on and off the field.
Directed by Kynan Clarke and Isabel Dilena.
Inspired by filmmaker siblings Danielle and Lachlan Baynes’s own family story, House Divided explores the unique dynamic of intra-family footy rivalries.
Directed by Danielle Baynes.
An inspiring documentary that follows the journey of Ryan Emerson, a deaf ruckman who defies expectations in a sport where communication is key.
Directed by Ramas McRae.
In 2004, Peta Searle’s playing career was cut short by a career-ending injury. Coaching was never part of the plan until her club Darebin – a struggling club in crisis – begged her to take the reins. What followed was nothing short of revolutionary.
Directed by Grace Anna Cardona.
Rhys Gilday, a man on the autism spectrum, and his love of AFL umpires, shine a spotlight on the game’s most misunderstood figures. No Prior Opportunity is a heartwarming, funny and powerful tribute to passion, exclusion and resilience on the fringes of fandom.
Directed by Alexandra Walton.