Upcoming film screenings and events in Melbourne

The Force will return to the magnificent Hamer Hall when the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) takes to the stage to present Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert. Off the back of the popular Star Wars in Concert Series, Melburnians will once again have the chance to enjoy the classic 1983 film on a huge screen, as they listen to John Williams’ renowned score brought to life with the full force of the mighty MSO.   The intergalactic event will screen the entire film from start to finish, and highlights include legendary scenes like the near-death of Luke Skywalker at Jabba the Hutt's desert fortress (which also features Princess Leia in her famous two-piece), as well as the final battle between Skywalker, Darth Vader and the Emperor. And sorry to the haters, but there will also be plenty of Ewok content to enjoy, too.  Conductor Nicholas Buc will once again lead the MSO during this spectacular sonic journey to a galaxy far, far away. Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert will run across June 6-8, so we’d suggest you secure your tickets before they sell out. You can also check out the MSO's 2024 program here.

Australia’s longest-running short film festival, the St Kilda Film Festival (SKFF) returns this winter for its landmark 40th year. From June 6 until June 16, the festival is set to showcase more than 150 films to cast a light on Australia’s best local short filmmakers.  From rip-roaring comedy to powerful drama and thrilling horror, you can catch the films at screening sessions across the City of Port Phillip, which presents the festival. There are screenings at famous venues such as the Alex Theatre and the Astor Theatre, as well as unexpected spaces like South Melbourne Market.  The red carpet opening night gala at the Astor will be even glitzier than usual, to celebrate the big anniversary. Emcee Brian Nankervis will host a screening of some festival standouts, which will be followed by an after-party where you can enjoy a boogie until late. Highlights from the 2024 SKFF program include post-apocalyptic animation A Robot’s Dream, Martian narrative Distant Space and teenage tale of self-discovery Esperance to Freemantle. All the familiar showcases and programmes will also return in 2024, including the Australian Comedy Showcase; Pride Without Prejudice hosted by Victorian Pride Centre; Australian Documentary Showcase; Brave New Worlds; Shifting The Gaze; Under The Radar and more.  This year, several new events will further beef up the line-up. First Nations in Conversation will bring together First Nations filmmakers from across the program into one session, while Through t