One of seven Australian works on the program, Force Of Destiny will screen on opening night this Wednesday, as the festival rolls out 32 films over 11 days.

It tells the story of Robert (David Wenham) a renowned sculptor who lives alone surrounded by the tools of his trade and his highly distinctive artworks.

He is close to his daughter Poppy but has an unresolved relationship with former partner Hannah when he is diagnosed with cancer of the liver and told he has six months to live.

After the diagnosis Robert meets Maya, an Indian marine biologist, who’s uncle also has cancer and is preparing for death by passing on his wisdom and knowledge with grace and acceptance.

In Robert’s last tumultuous months his nightmares and passion for Maya intensify.

His love blossoms and he has to confront the agony/ecstasy of finding a love that has evaded him his entire life just as his body is about to be taken away from him.

The movie was inspired by the life story of the film’s director Paul Cox, who underwent a liver transplant, and met his current partner during rehabilitation after surgery.

Golden Bear winner (Berlin International Film Festival) Tehran Taxi by Jafar Panahi, described in Berlin as "a love letter to cinema … filled with love for his art, his community, his country and his audience", heads the international entries this year.

Venice International Film Festival winner A pigeon sat on a branch reflecting on existence (Sweden) highlights Saturday’s line up.

Sixties French film Belle de Jour (1967) and 1973 English mystery horror classic The Wickerman – the final cut, staring Edward Woodward, Christopher Lee, Diane Celento and Britt Ekland add film nostalgia to the festival. 

Australian made documentaries Sherpa and Another Country close the festival on Sunday, August 30.

Director Molly Reynolds' film Another Country offers an all-too-rare first-hand account of the clash between the indigenous way of life and the lifestyle demanded of them by government policy.

To veteran Australia actor David Gulpilil it is our refusal to acknowledge this incompatibility that breeds such disconnection and destruction. 

Reynolds will hold a question and answer session after the screening.