I like your style.

By the cinematic camp fire

Wednesday 17 February 2010, 9.30 AM
By Holly Shorland | Posted in Q&A



At Blak Nite Cinema this coming weekend, audiences will meet a huge variety of Indigenous characters, and see films with a range of perspectives on Indigenous life, issues and culture.

That’s Melbourne caught up with actor Aaron Pedersen (City Homicide, The Circuit) who is MCing the proceedings to get his thoughts on this popular film event.

Aaron, you’re back for another year of Blak Nite Cinema. What do you hope audiences will take away from their experience?

I hope that people learn something about Indigenous Australians that they never knew before, something that allows them to strengthen the relationship in this country.

Films and stories are what bring us all closer together so seeing more non-Indigenous people taking an interest in the stories of Australia’s first people will be the highlight of the night.

That’s what I am looking forward to seeing. The bigger the audience around the campfire the better. A united campfire, that’s what I want.

What stood out for you most about last year’s event?

The most important thing about Blak Nite Cinema last year was the two feature length documentaries: Lionel, based on the life of Australian champion boxer Lionel Rose; and Bastardy about actor Uncle Jack Charles who played a significant part in pioneering the Black Theatre movement.  For me, these two Indigenous men have played a significant role in inspiring my journey and the bonus was they were both there to share their stories with us all. This gave the audience a chance to not only see their lives documented on film but also meet them in person.

You’ve spoken elsewhere about stereotypical depictions of Indigenous people on Australian screens. Have you noticed any changes in recent times?

Until we see large numbers of Indigenous people being cast in mainstream roles in every Australian production, be it television or film, then it’s fair to say that we still have plenty of work to do. Changing the shape and colour of Australian television and film is a work in progress. It always will be.

What does Blak Nite Cinema say to you about the future and importance of Indigenous film?

Blak Nite Cinema signifies the importance of Indigenous storytelling, It’s not just entertaining the masses, it aims to inform and educate non Indigenous Australians about the lives of the first people.

The flip side to it is, Indigenous Australians are empowered by the fact their stories are being told. It is our camp fire. It’s a place where we can all sit around and get to know each other.

Blak Nite Cinema takes place in our beautiful Treasury Gardens. Now that you live in Melbourne, do you spend much time in our parks and gardens?

The biggest and best park in Melbourne is the MCG.  I am looking forward to the start of the footy season. Can’t wait. Go the Bombers!

Thank you, Aaron – we’re look forward to watching some great films in a wonderful outdoor cinema with Blak Nite Cinema.

See you there!

Blak Nite Cinema Friday 19 February and Saturday 20 February, Treasury Gardens from 7.30pm. Free entry. Bring a rug and a picnic or pick up some snacks on-site.