More than 1700 people engaged with the 2024 Understory Film Festival, reinforcing its status as cornerstone for fostering screen culture, supporting local filmmakers, and celebrating the diverse stories of Far North Queensland.
Since 2014, the festival has attracted 619 submissions, shortlisted 200 films, and presented 115 awards, nurturing talent and providing opportunities for young, emerging, and established filmmakers.
The 2024 event comprised of two major components, Understory High and the Understory Film Festival.
In response to growing student submissions, Understory High was launched in 2023 as a dedicated high school film festival, with winning entries advancing to the Understory Film Festival.
In just its second year, Understory High attracted 189 participants, with 81 submissions received from eight schools, and 30 finalist films screened at Tanks Arts Centre on 4 October.
Understory Film Festival 2024 included 1,547 participants, who engaged in activities including film submissions, workshops and networking, and attending the Screening and Awards event at Munro Martin Parklands on 23 November.
