For Participate students of 2007, being part of the AFI Awards is an incredible honour, which they could only have dreamed for their first feature film. In August the representing team of Green Fire Envy attended the Gala opening of screenings for the L’Oreal Paris 2008 AFI Awards at Cine Paris Entertainment Quarter. Executive Producer Artur Kade and producers Andrew Bettridge, Catherine Jane Neasbey, and Sound Designer Adam luck and guests were proud to walk the red carpet among some of Australia’s greatest filmmakers.

The AFI screenings kicked off with Not Quite Hollywood. A hilarious mocumentary about the untold story of “Ozpolitation” and the Australian Film Industry focusing on the 70s and 80s. Australian filmmaking at it’s finest, the film references the movies that created the reasoning for many of today’s OH&S rules on set, such as Mad Max and Patrick. Director Mark Harley, introduced the screening with several Participate instructors of 2007 featuring interviews in the film. Cinematographer Russel Boyd, stunt expert Grant Page, director/producer Brian Trenchard-Smith and Participate Advisory Board member, Producer David Hannay.

Of course the screening was not the only benefit of attending the function. The exclusive after party at The Forum, themed “vintage glamour” had everyone dressed to the nines. Guest attendances included Damian Walsh Howling (Under Belly), Deni Hines, DJ Paul Mac and many more Australian celebrities and filmmakers.

“We just felt so privileged to be there and be part of the festivities, especially as one of the entrants” says student producer Andrew Bettridge.

Overall the AFI organisers produced a fantastic evening for all and a great opening for a celebration of 50 years of Australian Film, and the new generation on films. Andrew and Catherine, as well as Artur travelled around Australia to introduce the film to the AFI members. All screenings were well attended and received by the audience.

Join us for the following AFI screenings of Green Fire Envy in a city near you. Seating is limited.