‘memory film: a filmmaker’s diary’

‘memory film’ offers an immersive experience of change, both personal and political. By its documentation of the historical era of 1974-2003, the film reveals ongoing journeys towards gender equity, diversity, human rights and First Nations sovereignty. ‘memory film’ brings to light this important political and cultural era in Australian history, representing women, LGBTIQ and First Nations. Rare 1970-80s footage documents inspiring movements by women, social activists and First Nations people to transform their lives, giving visibility to hidden stories. This inner journey – the crisis of self, gender, motherhood, war, family life and spirituality – suggests a ‘space of possibility’ providing insights into the process of change.

‘memory film’ explores diverse pathways of liberation through feminism, therapy and an inner spiritual practice. The film functions as a guide, providing ‘lived experience’ of a journey of liberation across several decades of social change. Viewers may experience a shift from inner conflicts to a clearer sense of self, gaining a sense of ethics and empowerment for life and its challenges.https://users.documentaryaustralia.com.au/admin#

Short Term: Through a journey into ‘the personal is political’ viewers develop an understanding of their situation and societal expectations. Identifying with the lived experience embodied in this personal film archive, which illustrates ways of working through complex social, family and relationship issues, ‘memory film’ offers a unique ‘space of possibility’; this can assist in the development of an ethical and psychological frame for personal and social change.
Medium Term: Develop political and community based actions which help transform personal situations as well as contributing to wider social change; connections then develop with a wide range of people and linked organisations; isolation is lessened, optimism grows and practical solutions emerge.
Long Term: Better understanding of social change and personal transformation and the capacity to actively improve conditions around everyday life and its challenges.

Social connections are being developed with a range of the above organisations.

The experience of viewing ‘memory film’ will initially inspire an internal process rather than a specific ‘call to action’. The film may trigger insights into the viewer’s own story and ‘inner’ stories more deeply; viewers may try and seek out a therapist, a recovery group, or learn to manage feelings and thoughts through mindfulness practices, spirituality or through creativity and metaphor; they might want to express their own ‘lived experience’ and so research their own family history, dig out their own photographs and home movies and develop creative projects.
To further these aspirations they might contact relevant support groups, community groups and community-led solutions, view other related films, multi-platform media sources, access websites, archives – all leading to the development of imagination, courage, greater social connectedness, changes to their own situation and above all dignity.