Goa: Celebrating the dynamism of Australian cinema, the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) featured the gripping thriller Force of Nature: The Dry 2 as a highlight of the “Country Focus: Australia” segment. Acclaimed filmmaker Robert Connolly, the film’s director, writer, and producer, engaged with the media during an interactive session in Goa, offering insights into the film’s creation and thematic depth.
Set against the breathtaking yet unforgiving landscape of rural Australia, Force of Nature: The Dry 2 follows the story of five women on an executive retreat into the wilderness, only for one to mysteriously disappear. Federal Police Agent Aaron Falk, while investigating the missing hiker, finds his childhood memories from the same rugged terrain resurfacing, adding layers of emotional complexity to the tense investigation.
The film delves into themes of justice, family loyalty, and the lingering scars of the past, skillfully blending a gripping mystery with character-driven storytelling. Its exploration of human resilience against the backdrop of nature’s harsh beauty makes it a cinematic tour de force.
During the media interaction, Robert Connolly expressed his admiration for Indian cinema, remarking, “We learn about India through cinema, and I truly loved playing to a packed Indian audience.” He emphasized the pivotal role landscapes play in his films, describing them as “critical” and akin to “characters” that influence narratives profoundly.
“Understanding how landscapes shape people’s lives is integral to meaningful storytelling,” Connolly said, shedding light on his approach to portraying the stark rural backdrop in Force of Nature: The Dry 2.
Touching upon the relevance of global issues in filmmaking, Connolly highlighted the role of cinema in addressing climate change. “It’s an important issue, and emerging filmmakers need to focus on creating films that highlight the impact of climate change,” he noted, encouraging storytellers to weave such themes into their narratives.
Connolly lauded the global reach of Indian cinema, emphasizing its popularity among Australian audiences. He also praised IFFI as “a foundation for building some exciting stories worldwide,” underscoring the festival’s role in fostering cross-cultural cinematic exchanges.
The screening of Force of Nature: The Dry 2 at IFFI 2024 is a testament to the growing appreciation for Australian cinema on the global stage. With its powerful storytelling and evocative visuals, the film not only captivated audiences in Goa but also highlighted the universal appeal of stories rooted in resilience, secrets, and survival.
As Connolly concluded, the blend of cultural exchanges and creative storytelling at IFFI continues to build bridges, inspiring filmmakers to craft narratives that transcend borders.