SAE Creative Media Institute Brisbane is celebrating alumni in the film industry, with a digital screening for the critically-acclaimed feature documentary Zach’s Ceremony. 

Free for the general public on November 12th, Zach's Ceremony is being screened as part of National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) activities across Australia. 

Zach’s Ceremony explores what it means to be a young man belonging to the oldest living culture on the planet. The documentary was filmed over five years and follows teenager Zach on his path to self-discovery in both the modern world and his ancient culture.

Director Alec Doomadgee (Zach’s father) is an Aboriginal activist, a respected leader amongst his people and peers as a Tribal Lore man and Warrior for the “Knowledge Keepers”. Alec conceptualised Zach’s Ceremony over a decade ago.  

“The original concept for the film was to show the different world that I lived in; working in the media industry, and then being involved with my culture.” said Alec. 

“As it evolved, naturally the camera turned to Zach. I figured if I could tell the story of our world, our culture and ceremonies through the eyes of a child, mainstream Australia would let down their guard and see the beauty of our people.” he said.

Barbara Taylor studied a Bachelor of Film at SAE’s Byron Bay campus, and gained the skills needed to succeed as a filmmaker. Her role as Impact Producer on the film was to think about its impact, its key message, and its audience, and align that with strategies that enable the film and its message to reach those people. 

“This skill, this platform, not only captures our current zeitgeist, it enables us to shift perspectives and radiate a sense of inclusion that grows stronger every day. It gives minorities a voice and a chance to be heard. That's pretty inspiring.” she says. 

Zach’s Ceremony celebrates the beauty of Aboriginal culture and to empower emerging generations to change the story to one of positivity and hope. This NAIDOC week, the filmmakers are inviting viewers to immerse themselves in Zach’s world and see it through his eyes. 

EVENT DETAILS

Venue: Brisbane SAE campus

Date: Thursday, 12th November

Who: Alec Doomadgee (Director), Barbara Taylor (Impact producer)

Time: 2-4pm

Eventbrite link: https://www.eventbrite.de/e/zachs-ceremony-tickets-126916607991

OTHER LINKS: 

Trailer -https://youtu.be/wgt7Qh5fIm8

Vox Pops -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7u8vqXMLoA