In 1967, having lived in America for 40 years, Chrissie (Laura Linney) returns to her Irish seaside hometown for her mother’s funeral. There, she discovers that the women of the town are obsessed with entering a church talent competition being held in her mother’s honour. The winners will be rewarded with the prize of a lifetime: the chance to leave their domestic struggles behind on a trip to the sacred French town of Lourdes, where miracles are sought by the masses each year.

As luck – a little benevolent interference from a priest – would have it, the prize ends up going to Chrissie’s mother’s closest friends. Reluctantly accompanied by Chrissie, the unlikely group of women set off on their pilgrimage, which soon reveals long-held secrets. Elevated by the inestimable talents of Maggie Smith and Kathy Bates (and their best Irish accents), this is a charming drama about spirituality, love and forgiveness.

The 11th edition of the Lebanese Film Festival celebrates the rich tapestry of stories that Lebanese filmmakers – both in Australia and across the world – have shared over the past year. All screenings are FREE with no membership required. Learn more at www.lff.org.au

In a world driven by social media, soaring heights await those who wield it wisely, but a dangerous obsession could lead to a devastating downfall. In this film, the lives of six intertwined characters are consumed and tested by the relentless grip of the social media world in Lebanon, revealing hidden truths and challenges they must confront.