Documentary
Australia,Germany,United Kingdom
Island of the Hungry Ghosts is a documentary film directed by Gabrielle Brady. The film explores two parallel stories that take place on Christmas Island, a small Australian territory situated in the Indian Ocean. On one hand, the film documents the annual migration of millions of red crabs that cross the island from the jungle to the coast to breed. On the other hand, the film focuses on the ongoing detention of asylum seekers at the Christmas Island Immigration Detention Centre.
The centre is a high-security facility that houses individuals who have attempted to enter Australia without proper documentation. Many of these individuals are fleeing from persecution or violence in their home countries, but the Australian government has implemented a strict policy of turning away refugees and immigrants who arrive by boat. As a result, many of the detainees have been on the island for years, with no clear idea of when they will be released or deported.
The film follows Poh Lin Lee, a trauma counselor who works with the detainees at the centre. She listens to their stories, tries to alleviate their anxiety and depression, and helps them to cope with the uncertainty of their situation. She also explores the island's "hungry ghost" phenomenon, a traditional Chinese belief that spirits of the dead wander the land, seeking sustenance and release.
Island of the Hungry Ghosts is a poetic and thought-provoking film that sheds light on the complex issues of migration, detention, and trauma. Through stunning cinematography and an evocative soundtrack, the film creates a haunting portrait of a place where human and natural worlds collide, and where the search for freedom and belonging takes on multiple forms.
