James J Robinson on Processing Catholicism Through Debut Feature First Light

Photographer-turned-filmmaker James J Robinson discusses his debut feature First Light, a Philippines-set drama about an elderly nun questioning her faith. The film won Best Australian Director at the 2025 Melbourne International Film Festival. Robinson, who was raised Catholic, channeled his personal spiritual journey into the narrative, blending critiques of institutional religion with appreciation for natural beauty and Indigenous perspectives. The lead role is played by Ruby Ruiz, known for Expats (2023), in what critics call a career-best performance. Robinson's background includes a controversial protest piece, Burn the Blazer, where he set fire to his school uniform at St Kevin's College. First Light is the first Australian-Filipino co-production of its scale, shot in Tagalog, and has screened at festivals in Marrakech, Rotterdam, Glasgow, and Sydney before its Australian theatrical release.