Djilang Film Collective is an informal group of emerging film-makers from culturally diverse backgrounds mainly from Norlane and Corio. They have collaborated together to create a number of short films that are written and directed by individual artists supported by industry professionals. The collective has purchased film equipment and received training and mentorship in technical aspects of film making enabling them to film and edit their own films to a high standard. The films reflect the diverse cultural backgrounds of the group and tell stories of relevance to their communities as well as the wider public. Public showings have been held at Platform Arts and The Pivotonian Cinema and films have been entered into film festivals and received further recognition. Local musicians have been engaged to create original film scores.
Future projects aim to develop new collaborations between emerging artists from different cultural backgrounds and create new opportunities for emerging film makers to develop their skills and tell their unique stories.
Ka(ibig)an
A short film by Nina Untivero and Guyan Valenton - 2025
In the heart of Melbourne, two strangers carry the weight of distant homes and unspoken dreams, until a single date reveals that even in exile, love can feel like coming home.
Two Filipino breadwinners on a first date in Melbourne discover that love, like sacrifice, is a full-time job, with no days off.
Traditional Thing
A short film by Kiko Wayne Jr - 2025
Buomkuoth and Rachel have been dating for some time and after some initial problems with Rachel’s father, things are going well. This all changes when BK gets a phone call from his father reminding him of his cultural obligations.
Birth-day
A short film by Mustafa Amiri and Ali Hosseini - 2024
Birth-day is an emotionally resonant film that reflects on the choices that shape our lives. It explores how a single decision can ripple outward, affecting not only the person at its centre but also the people around them.
Birth-day considers the weight of personal choices and the lasting impact they can have on relationships, identity and the paths we follow. It invites audiences to reflect on the moments that define us and the unseen consequences that often accompany them.
If Tomorrow Never Comes
A short film by Fiston Baraka - 2025
PEOPLE LIKE YOU
a short film by kiko wayne jr - 2024
Buomkuoth and Rachel live in an Australian regional town. They have been dating for a while and are in love but when they decide it is time for them to meet each other’s parents, things get complicated very quickly. Can their relationship withstand the strain? People Like You is a bittersweet comedy about cross-cultural relationships in contemporary Australia.
AWARDS
Heathcote Film Festival - Official Selection
North Bellarine Film Festival - Official Selection
Melbourne International CINEVERSE Film Festival - Official Selection, Finalist
Beijing Lift-off Film Festival - Official Selection
The Gift
A short film by Ali Hosseini - 2024
ran
a short film by kiko wayne jr - 2023
Recently arrived in Australia, Ran wants to get ahead but frustrated by a lack of opportunity, he finds himself drawn into a world of crime and violence. ‘Ran’ provides an insight into the issues facing many young people in the Australian African community.
AWARDS
Geelong Indepedent Film Festival - Official Selection
Victorian Multicultural Film Festival - Official Selection, Finalist Emerging Filmmaker
Melbourne Lift-Off Film Festival - Official Selection
Changing Face International Film Festival - Honorable Mention
Dr Dave Kelman - Artistic Director
Dave has worked for the last thirty years as a youth theatre director, writer, researcher and drama educator in Melbourne and Leeds UK. He has directed critically acclaimed works at the Malthouse Theatre, has delivered many innovative arts residencies in schools, is a widely published researcher and is an award-winning lecturer in arts education. He has a doctorate in drama education from the University of Melbourne.
JOIN THE DJILANG FILM COLLECTIVE - Expression of Interest Form
Free to join, the Djilang Film Collective brings together young people from all cultures and backgrounds to make films, tell stories and have their voices heard. Explore filmmaking in a supportive, youth-led environment, create original short films, tackle social issues and collaborate with an incredible ensemble of emerging filmmakers. With the guidance of professional mentors, you’ll turn your ideas into bold, thought-provoking and entertaining stories for the screen.
Fill out this form if you are interested in joining the collective and we’ll get in touch.