By Casey Neill
A film shot in Greater Dandenong won an award at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival.
All These Creatures won the Palme d’Or for the best short film at the French event on Sunday 20 May.
Greater Dandenong Council collaborated with the filmmaker Charles Williams to produce the movie, which was among eight finalists from almost 4000 submissions.
Council CEO John Bennie said it tackled complex subjects including mental health issues and family relationships.
It was set in the mid-‘90s and told in flashback through a teenage boy, played by 13-year-old Ethiopian-born Yared Scott who was raised by adoptive parents in Melbourne.
“This film tells a universal story that is relatable on so many levels,” Mr Bennie said.
“We are extremely proud to see our local stories being told to an international audience.
“This film has exceeded our expectations and is proof that by working together we can really make a difference.”
All These Creatures was filmed on location in Greater Dandenong, students from local schools appeared as extras and three young people from the community worked on the film to gain industry experience through a mentorship program.
