Freedom Stories.

Freedom Stories begins an exclusive theatrical run at Melbourne.s Cinema Nova on July 23, part of a multi-platform project which chronicles the determination and resilience of former boat people who have rebuilt their lives.

Directed by Steve Thomas and produced by Lisa Horler, the feature-length doc had its world premiere at the Sydney Film Festival.

The next stages of the roll-out will be distribution via DVD and online streaming followed by an interactive website.

.As well as delivering material in a non-linear, self-exploratory way, we hope this will allow other former asylum seekers and filmmakers to upload their stories, as text, photos or video,. Thomas says. A series of complementary short films will be released online.

Supported through Film Victoria.s Documentary Development program, the Cinema Nova season will kick off with two evenings of Q&A screenings with filmmakers, participants and special guests.

Four years in gestation,