Shop for a film
CARNIVAL, THE
Year: 2023
Classification: MA
Runtime: 85 min
Produced In: Australia
Directed By: Isabel Darling
Produced By: Isabel Darling, Tom Zubrycki
Language: English
The Bells have been hauling their convoy of carnival rides and workers across Australia for six generations. Now, facing shutdowns and bushfires, and a dwindling economy – the family battles to keep their show, and ultimately their legacy, alive.
The Bells and their workers have a mission: to keep their carnival alive and thriving, and to keep it in the family. This traveling show family have been touring Australia for a hundred years, and now, facing some of the toughest times they've ever seen are preparing to hand over the reins to the next generation, with the empire expected to be handed down to the next boy in line.
Filmed over 7 years, this epic road-trip unveils not only the mystery of the traveling show-people, but also reveals a family grappling with traditional life in a modern world.
"In late 2015, I ventured into the Bell family's camp and was immediately struck by their unique lifestyle. Their existence is a subculture marked by ceaseless journeys across the country; skimming through various towns and cities, with the rare exception of a stay in Batemans Bay NSW for six weeks every Christmas. ... On a personal level, this film has been a transformative journey for me. I am overjoyed that audiences now have the opportunity to embark on the same adventure and gain insight into the real lives of the 'showies.' My children and I have travelled the country, chasing after trucks and sharing campfires beneath the starry desert skies. Most importantly, we have extended our family to include the Bells." – Isabel Darling
VIEW TRAILER HERE: vimeo.com/953877867
Written and directed by Isabel Darling
Produced by Tom Zubrycki, Isabel Darling
Editors – Hilary Balmond, Lindi Harrison
Cinematography - Isabel Darling
Original Music – Luna Pan
Produced with assistance from Screen Australia, ScreenNSW, SBS and the Shark Island Foundation.
© 2023, Torchlight Media
CLASSIFICATION: MA15+ (Not suitable people under 15. Under 15s must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. Strong coarse language.)
Festivals
Official Selection, Melbourne International Film Festival
Finalist, Documentary Australia Award, Sydney Film Festival
Official Selection, Cinefest Oz Film Festival