IASH/History Documentary Series 2019
The Family
(directed by Rosie Jones, 2016, 90m)
This documentary examines the history of The Family cult in Melbourne from the 1960s to 1990s. Dedicated to the teachings of Anne Hamilton-Byrne, who believed she was the reincarnation of Jesus Christ, she and her husband acquired several children by questionable means to raise them up in her teachings. The children were given identical appearances – the striking blonde bobs - and were subject to abuse, starved and given LSD, only to be finally rescued by police in 1987.
The documentary shows the inner workings of the cult and Hamilton-Byrne through interviews with survivors, cult members and detectives involved in the case. The film explores the effect that the abuse has had on the survivors, particularly important as the sect continues to operate today.
This event is sponsored by HASS Student Futures. The screening will be followed by FREE DRINKS AND SNACKS as well as an informal conversation with experts in the field – and plenty of opportunity for Q&A with the audience.
Tuesday 30th April, 4pm
Location: Seminar Room 402, Level 4 Forgan Smith Tower, UQ
About IASH/History Documentary Series 2019
The IASH/History documentary series an outreach and enrichment activity for students in the Faculty. Events usually comprise the screening of a documentary film followed by a Q&A panel with experts in the field. In 2019, the series is being sponsored by HASS Student Futures.