Breaking the Silence in Brussels: Using documentary film to inspire change

Last week in Brussels we were part of a history making event that was breaking the silence on women's rights in Malta. On Valentines Day, Malta's ban on abortion was discussed within the European Parliament for the first time.

At the same event, our film No Woman is An Island screened and was followed up by a panel consisting of MEPs, activists, doctors and artists. To say it was an honour to attend EU Parliament in Brussels and stand with around 80 Maltese activists is an understatement.

We feel so proud of our collective efforts and no matter where you stand on the debate of abortion, it's a fair argument to state that women's body autonomy shouldn't be anyone else's business besides the woman.

After many similar discussions within EU Parliament laws were passed regarding LGBTQ rights and divorce in Malta. Now we’re waiting for the day that those responsible for European decision-making will do the same regarding the dire issues facing women and girls in Malta, particularly abortion.

The power of activism and the power of film are sometimes one and the same and both are not to be overlooked.

Thanks goes to MP Cyrus Engerer — the only Maltese politician to have voted in favour of abortion being declared a fundamental human right. Cyrus invited 'No Woman is an Island' and us, the producers to Brussels to stand with the Maltese activists within EU Parliement and on the streets at such a prestigious event.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Read Sarah Jayne’s blog post talking about her experience in Brussels with No Woman is an Island here.

Cats of Malta Begins Production

Production has began on our feature documentary Cats of Malta about the many stray cats of the island and the people who care for them. Our first interview was with Matthew Pandalfino as he re-painted his giant cat sculpture in Sliema, a popular tourist attraction, and we were there to document the process and learn more about why cats are so beloved in Malta. We have more interviews lined up so stay tuned to our website for updates and adorable pictures of cats.

And if you are in Malta and know a cat feeder with an interesting story to tell, we want to speak to them. Get in touch with us. 

Beamafilm deal

Woop woop...a reason to clang those champagne glasses together... Friends, Foes & Fireworks is now on the Beamafilm library, and we are really thrilled with the news.

Our Australian distributor Bounty Films secured the deal for us and now our first improvised feature film takes a place next to our short educational film, Daughter.

Coming soon to accompany the film on the Beamafilm film resource page will a Q&A with us, the directors which will be used as an extra resource material to help sell the film. More news on that to follow.
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Check out tFriends, Foes & Fireworks, a film about women's health, friendship, and a new years eve reunion that goes a little off the rails on Beamafilm now (Australia only).

Interview on Articles of Antiquity with the Directors

Check out the interview with co-directors Ivan Malekin and Sarah Jayne as they answer some life, film and improvisation questions relating to Friends, Foes & Fireworks and their film experiences. You can read the interview with magazine founder and editor-in-chief, Jennifer Sparkman, on the official Articles of Antiquity site here.