It is a documentary drama filmed over 10 years that shows one boy’s journey to manhood in a complex, emotionally driven story. 

The themes of the film are universal: that of family and connection, but also  the fascinating and unique question of what it means to be a modern man belonging to the oldest living culture on earth.

When we first meet Zach he is a bright, friendly 10-year-old boy who loves his dad, Alec. Zach talks excitedly about his upcoming initiation ceremony, a cultural obligation for his tribe and a vital part of his indigenous heritage. Zach yearns to be seen as a man in the eyes of tribal society and, more importantly, his father.

Complications arise as Zach enters adolescence and the pressures of his life mount. Zach feels too white to be accepted by his family and friends and too black for his inner city peers. Combined with Alec’s well-intentioned but strict style of parenting, Zach snaps and starts to rebel.

Against the backdrop of Indigenous oppression, Zach’s teenage experimentation and his violent reactions to racism leads the troubled youth to some dark places. Alec knows that without a true connection to his culture, Zach is lost. It’s time for Zach to answer the call of his Elders, to take part in the ancient rite of passage and walk in the footsteps of his ancestors.

He goes on a journey of discovery into ancient traditions that date back thousands of years and have been passed down through the generations. 

Zach’s Ceremony is an extraordinary, feature-length documentary captured over ten years that shows one boy’s journey to manhood in a complex, emotionally driven story. Its themes are universal: that of family and connection, but also explores the fascinating and unique question of what it means to be a modern man belonging to the oldest living culture on earth.

Through the eyes of a young boy, this film gives an intimate insight into the beauty, complexities and challenges to growing up in Australia with culture.  An insight that is rarely seen outside of Indigenous communities.

The special screening of Zach's Ceremony will only take place if a minimum number of tickets are sold. You can purchase tickets and find out more now from the South East Arts website www.southeastarts.org.au