The incredible success story of our debut feature film, Riz, came to fruition last night as this ground-breaking western Sydney coming-of-age story had its world premiere at a Sydney Film Festival red carpet screening.
Riz is a western Sydney success story. Not only is it set in the area, it is the first feature film from Casula-based CuriousWorks − a unique media arts company committed to sharing the largely untold stories of the region’s multicultural communities.
It has been made on an $85,000 budget, using local unknown actors and a crew that included young aspiring film-makers who have been developing their skills through the CuriousWorks’ western suburbs training programs.
Riz was also the narrative feature debut for co-writers and directors Guido Gonzalez and S. Shakthidharan, who come from the western Sydney immigrant communities represented in the film (Riz is based on Guido’s real life experiences growing up in Cabramatta).
“This is just amazing recognition,” said Shakthi, who made it his artistic mission to “reveal another Australia” when he founded CuriousWorks ten years ago.
“We’re telling the stories of western Sydney, and taking them to new audiences. For a debut film with unknown actors and a crew filled with our trainee ‘Curious Creators’ to get this recognition is incredible.”
Thanks to the audience at Dendy Opera Quays – we were overwhelmed by your warm and enthusiastic response!
Nice to get a positive first review too: “Inexperienced actors deliver intense performances which lead to a very poignant climax, *** ½” – Mark Morellini, City Hub
Riz heads west tonight with the Sydney Film Festival to the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre. Turn up early to hear Kurinji play live from the soundtrack.