New refugee film reveals detention centre turmoil

Featuring never-before-seen footage from inside detention camps, Chasing Asylum explores the mental, physical and financial impact of detention centres and their occupants. 

Known for her Oscar winning documentary, Taxi to the Dark Side, and directorial debut The Network, which looked behind the scenes of Afghanistan’s largest television station, Ms Orner will attend the screening to discuss her new film.

Amnesty Margaret River’s Rod Whittle said the current situation at offshore detention centres called for urgent action.

“We hope that the screening of this film will allow more people to see what is really going on at these facilities, without the veil that is so often covering news reports,” Mr Whittle said.

“Amnesty Margaret River is extremely active on this front and with the situation now in an appalling state, we truly believe that shining a light on the matter, particularly before the election, has the potential to make a big difference to these people.

“There are already alternative plans to process and accommodate refugees that would stop them trying to reach Australian shores in the first place, which should be looked at.

“It is now time for the government, and Australian people, to realise that this is not what this country is all about. 

A companion novel, Chasing Asylum: A Filmmaker’s Story will also be on sale at the event, with Ms Orner available to sign copies. 

A question and answer session will also be held with the director, where attendees will be able to meet with the acclaimed producer. 

Chasing Asylum will screen at the Margaret River Cultural Centre on Wednesday June 1 from 7pm. 

Tickets ($20 adults, $18 ArtsHub members, $15 youth) are available at www.artsmargaretriver.com, at the Arts Margaret River office or at the door at the event.

The film is rated MA15+ due to strong coarse language.