1. EachPod

Judging a film festival and how Taylor Swift inspired Pete Murray

Author
Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Published
Wed 23 Jul 2025
Episode Link
https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/arts-in-30/film-festival-judge-miff-wells-yeo-pete-murray-megan-macdonald/105508228

Winning a film festival prize can launch an independent movie far beyond the festival circuit, leading to critical attention and international distribution deals. But in a space as subjective as the cinema, how does a jury pick their winner? Two members of the MIFF Bright Horizons jury, director Charlotte Wells and composer and musician Caitlin Yeo, share their perspectives.

And earlier this year Taylor Swift bought back the rights to her masters, after spending years re-recording her early work. But even before the purchase, her actions have inspired others, including Australian musician Pete Murray, who has recently recorded a new version of his hit single Better Days, with more to come. ABC digital reporter Megan Macdonald explains why some musicians have had to head back into the studio to claim back their own songs.

Our track of the week is 3am by Sleepazoid 

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