From Paul Cox (Innocence, MIFF 2000), one of Australia's most celebrated filmmakers, comes the World Premiere of the erotically charged drama Human Touch. Features an atmospheric score by Paul Grabowsky and strong performances from a talented cast, including Jacqueline McKenzie, Chris Haywood, Aaron Blabey, Rebecca Frith and Aden Young.

Anna (McKenzie) is in her early 30s'she has a burgeoning music career as a singer, and has a loving relationship with her painter boyfriend, David. Her remarkable voice and luminous presence command attention, and when Anna's choir holds a concert to raise money for a tour of China, she is noticed by Edward (Haywood), a wealthy, cultured man in his 60s. Accepting an offer to meet with Edward, in the hope that he will help finance the tour, Anna visits his imposing mansion. The dense artistic and erotic environment, so different from her own world, intrigues her. When Edward asks Anna to pose for a series of nude photographs, she sees no reason to refuse him. However, when David sees the results of the photographic shoot, he becomes jealous and unnerved by Edward's attention to Anna. The older man has captured an unseen side of Anna, a languid sensuality, and has started her on an intimate journey of self-discovery that can't be halted.

Paul Cox, Mark Patterson, Jacqueline McKenzie, Aaron Blabey, Chris Haywood and Rebecca Frith are guests of the Festival.

D/S Paul Cox P Mark Patterson, Paul Cox WS Globe Films TD 35mm/Col/2004/104mins

Paul Cox was born in the Netherlands. Films include: Lonely Hearts (1982), Man of Flowers (1983), Molokai: The Story of 'Father Damien' (MIFF 2000).