Moni Director Alana Hicks: A Vision for a New Era of Australian Film
Alana Hicks, a Papua New Guinean-Australian writer, director, and a force to be reckoned with, is shaking up the Australian film industry. Known as a “mad schemer” with a passion for bringing Pacific stories to the forefront, Hicks is not just telling these stories – she’s fundamentally rethinking how they’re told and who gets to tell them.
Her latest project, Moni, a captivating six-part series for SBS, is a prime example. The series, recently lauded for its authenticity and powerful portrayal of a small Papua New Guinean island community, is more than just entertainment; it’s a declaration of intent. It’s Hicks’ vision for a film industry that reflects the rich diversity of Australia and the Pacific region, rather than perpetuating tired tropes and limited perspectives.
Beyond the Screen: A Call for Systemic Change
Hicks’ ambition extends far beyond simply producing compelling content. She’s a vocal advocate for systemic change within the Australian film industry. “We need to decolonise the way we make films,” she states plainly. This means challenging existing power structures, prioritizing Indigenous and Pacific Islander voices, and ensuring that stories are told with cultural sensitivity and respect. It's about moving away from a model where stories from these communities are filtered through a Western lens, and instead, empowering those who live them to share their own narratives.
“It’s not enough to just have a brown face in front of the camera,” Hicks explains. “We need brown faces behind the camera too – writers, directors, cinematographers, editors… the whole crew. We need to create opportunities for people from these communities to learn, grow, and lead.”
Moni: A Groundbreaking Approach
Moni itself embodies Hicks’ commitment to this vision. The series was created in collaboration with the people of Papua New Guinea, with local talent playing key roles both on and off screen. Hicks spent considerable time living on the island of Daru, immersing herself in the culture and building trust with the community. This dedication to authenticity shines through in every aspect of the series, from the language spoken to the customs depicted.
The series explores complex themes of tradition versus modernity, faith, and the impact of climate change on a vulnerable island community. But it does so with a nuanced and empathetic approach, avoiding simplistic narratives and celebrating the resilience and strength of the people of Daru.
The Future of Australian Film?
Alana Hicks’ work represents a significant shift in the Australian film landscape. She's not just making films; she’s building a movement. By championing Pacific stories and advocating for greater diversity and inclusion, she's paving the way for a more vibrant, representative, and culturally rich film industry. Moni is just the beginning – Hicks has a lot more stories to tell, and a lot more change she wants to see.
Her vision isn't just about representation; it's about reimagining the entire industry, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that the stories of the Pacific – and all of Australia – are heard, respected, and celebrated.
