27A is the story of Bill Donald a middle-aged alcoholic sentenced to six weeks jail who ends up trapped for eighteen months in a hospital for the criminally insane. It’s the story of one man caught in a bureaucratic nightmare which controls his life and over which he has no power.  Bill Donald is a liar, a cheat, an alcoholic and a human being.

Based on a true story, 27A was one of the first films made in the re-establishment of the Australian cinema industry in the early 1970s.  At a time when the prevailing Australian film production was sex and farce this film is a raw piece of social realism which provides an extraordinary insight into Australian culture.  

At the time of production film makers Esben Storm and Haydn Keenan were in their early twenties and 27A was their first feature film.  Brilliantly acted and photographed it is a rare gem which stands the test of time.  It’s compassion and anger speak to us as clearly as they did in the 1970s.

Winner - Best Film & Best Actor Australian Film Institute Awards. 

“…it’s a fine feature adorned with bitter and sometimes funny dialogue, rich characterisations, a sense of place (as distinct from an eagerness to exploit the picturesque) and a story line with some texture to it.”  Sandra Hall The Bulletin

“…it is a truly remarkable achievement from Storm and colleague Haydn Keenan, and a comparative rarity – an Australian film of social concern.”  

Colin Bennet  The Age

“… a cast of actors who, in a multitude of laconic roles, create a near flawless illusion of reality”  Andrew McKay Melbourne Herald