Goa: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) highlighted Australian cinema with the screening of The Rooster, a compelling independent drama by debut director and writer Mark Leonard Winter. The film, showcased under the festival’s special focus on Australian cinema, captivated audiences with its raw exploration of grief, loss, and the search for meaning.
Director Mark Leonard Winter, accompanied by lead actor Hugo Weaving and producers Geraldine Hakewil and MahVeen Shahraki, shared insights into the film’s creation during a press conference at the festival. Winter, who transitioned from acting to directing with this project, described the experience as deeply personal. “It was a very personal project, made in our garage with a small, tight-knit team. To now present it at such a prestigious festival in India is a true honor,” he said.
The Rooster follows the story of Dan, a young police officer retreating to the woods after the death of his best friend, Steve. In this solitude, Dan encounters a reclusive hermit who may hold the key to unraveling the mystery of Steve’s death. The film employs minimalistic yet evocative storytelling to delve into the emotional complexities of its characters.
Hugo Weaving, celebrated for his diverse roles in international cinema, reflected on the unique challenges and rewards of playing Dan. “Working on this film was deeply meaningful, both as an actor and as part of a team committed to telling an honest story,” Weaving shared.
Producers Geraldine Hakewil and MahVeen Shahraki praised Winter’s vision and dedication, highlighting his seamless transition from actor to director. “Mark exceeded our expectations with his work on the script and direction. It was a privilege to be part of this journey,” Hakewil noted.
A standout aspect of the film is its innovative sound design, which relies solely on the human voice for its score. Winter explained the creative choice, saying, “We wanted the score to be deeply connected to the human experience, using only the voice to evoke emotions, from primal sounds to divine music. The human voice has a unique power, and it was essential for us to capture that raw energy.”
The press conference also addressed broader themes, including the future of Australian cinema, challenges for independent filmmakers, and the evolving role of digital platforms in film distribution. The team emphasized the importance of preserving the core of storytelling amid a changing technological landscape.
As IFFI 2024 continues to celebrate global cinematic expressions, The Rooster stands out as a testament to the power of independent filmmaking and its ability to resonate with universal emotions, bridging cultural boundaries through compelling narratives.