2024

The Pool

The Pool, directed by Ian Darling, explores the world’s most photographed pool, Bondi Icebergs. This film beautifully captures the lives of those who gather there, revealing how this iconic space fosters a deep sense of community, connection, and belonging. A visually stunning tribute to the power of shared experiences.

Director

Ian Darling

Runtime

95 Minutes

Country

Australia

Classification

All Ages

A captivating film celebrating the iconic Bondi Icebergs pool and the community it nurtures.

The Pool, directed by Ian Darling, is a captivating exploration of Bondi Icebergs, the world’s most photographed pool. With over 250,000 swimmers each year, this iconic Sydney landmark serves as the backdrop for a documentary that resonates on both a personal and universal level.

Darling delves into the lives of the diverse individuals, from dedicated swimmers who brave the winter chill to those who find peace and purpose in its waters. The pool transcends its role as a place for exercise to become a meeting ground where lives are intertwined, showcasing the power of shared experiences to bring people together.

The cinematography and direction immerse you in the stunning beauty of Bondi. Complemented by a stellar soundtrack featuring artists including Kylie Minogue and Cream, The Pool is an inspiring celebration of the importance of belonging and the unifying power of community. This film will leave you uplifted, with a smile that lingers long after it ends.

“A beautifully shot portrait of both a beloved place and the people who frequent it, it invites you to hear from the regulars who show up from the crack of dawn until the sun goes down about why they couldn’t imagine being anywhere else in the world.”

Time Out

“The pool looked stunningly gorgeous in the film thanks to cinematographer Ben Cunningham, and you do get a sense that this is a place of community.”

Bondi Observer

Play Trailer

Film Credits

Director

Ian Darling

Year

2024

Country

Australia

Language

English

Type

Documentary & Feature

Program Strand

Guest in attendance, Q&A & World Documentary

Producer

Mary Macrae & Ian Darling

Cinematographer

Ben Cunningham ACS

Editor

Sally Fryer ASE

Music

Paul Charlier

Film Source

Madman Entertainment

Genre

Documentary, Feel-Good & Sport

Purchase Tickets

More to see...

Balomania

Discover the vibrant, secretive ‘balloon world’ of Brazil in Sissel Morell Dargis's captivating documentary. Follow passionate ‘baloeiros’ as they release breathtaking balloons adorned with iconic figures like Pavarotti and Jesus, in the face of police hostility. This thrilling film offers an intimate look at a unique and creative subculture.

The Contestant

The unbelievable true story of a Japanese game show contestant left naked, alone and starving in a room for 15 months - unaware he was being broadcast to over 15 million TV viewers a week.

Dahomey

Mati Diop’s Dahomey, winner of the Golden Bear at the Berlinale, blends fact and fantasy to address cultural restitution. The film follows 26 looted cultural objects from France back to Benin, highlighting the ongoing struggle for justice. It captures vibrant debates among Beninese students on cultural heritage and restitution.

Look Into My Eyes

A24’s Look Into My Eyes, directed by Lana Wilson (Taylor Swift: Miss Americana), explores the psychic world through seven New York City psychics. Featuring intimate interviews and client sessions, it delves into their motivations, revealing profound human connections. Look Into My Eyes is a seminal film about the psychic world, not to be missed.