It’s nearly the end of winter, which means it’s time for one of the most anticipated parties of the year: the opening night of the Melbourne International Film Festival.

MIFF devotees packed Hoyts Melbourne Central for the Australian premiere of Oscar winner Adam Elliot’s Memoir of a Snail, kicking off 17 days of cinema with 250 films from over 62 countries.

The film's voice actors Sarah Snook (Succession) and Kodi Smit-McPhee (The Power of the Dog) were among guests on the red carpet who later strolled over the road to the State Library Victoria for the after party.

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The dress code was “festival finest”, with party-goers wearing everything from black tie to tie-dye, gowns, puffer jackets, suits and tracksuits. On the menu? Chico Rolls, egg salad sandwiches and party pies paired with negronis and champagne.

Want to know what to see at the fest? Check out our top picks here.

The Melbourne International Film Festival runs until August 25. Click here for tickets.