Westwind: Djalu’s Legacy
Ben Strunin
| Australia
| 2017
| 86 min
Djalu Gurruwiwi, an ageing Yolngu elder and master Yidaki (didgeridoo) player, is a custodian of his people’s ancient Songlines, which have stored his clan’s Knowledge, Culture, and Country since the birth of time. But Djalu is running out of time to pass on these Songlines, entrusted to him for the future of his people. His sons and community, struggling to come to terms with the consequences of colonisation, are lost. When Djalu breaks with tradition in an effort to save the Songlines, world-famous musician Gotye becomes an unexpected family member and helps heal Djalu’s sons and amplify the songs to the world.
Director Ben Strunin
Producer Ben Strunin, Kate Pappas, Nick Batzias, Ben Pederick, Virginia Murray
Premiere Sydney Premiere
Section Australian Competition
Festival Year 2017