Lights, camera, action at this year's Melbourne International Film Festival

It's almost time for film lovers to make their way to the wonderfully artistic city of Melbourne for the globally acclaimed Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF).

Opening on July 31 and running through to August 17, this celebration of all things cinematic is set to take Melbourne - and the world - by storm.

The ever impressive MIFF has an illustrious history considering it started all the way back in 1952, making it one of the world's oldest film festivals. The whole city comes together in an explosion of film screenings, panel discussions, parties and other exciting events that make MIFF renowned around the world.

The festival supports both local and international film, with a reputation for celebrating home-grown Aussie talent while also sourcing some of the best films from around the globe. It even provides Melbourne with a significant economic boost as people come from all around the world to partake.

All in all, this is one incredibly exciting and special event you don't want to miss out on, especially if you love the silver screen.

Make your way to the festival's opening night with the Australian premiere of the much-anticipated feature film Predestination, starring Ethan Hawke, Noah Taylor and Sarah Snook. This was made by one of Australia's most promising filmmaking talents, the 'Spierig Brothers' duo that is made up of Michael Spierig and Peter Spierig.

The film offers a captivating blend of sci-fi, film noir and crime genres and promises a cinematic experience to remember. Get your tickets to the red carpet, film screening and official after party to mingle with the stars.

Other highlights include the award ceremonies, which dole out prizes to the most impressive films of the bunch. The MIFF Shorts Awards, TeleScope Award and People's Choice Awards are not to be missed, honouring some of best filmmaking talent from Australian and around the world.

If you're serious about making the most of this festival, you might even want to join the MIFF Membership program and grab yourself a 'Festival Passport', which grants access to every film at all venues across the festival - so you won't miss a thing!

You can also volunteer to work at MIFF, giving you the chance to interact with filmmakers, stars and guests as you help continue the legacy of this longstanding festival.

With venues all across town, make sure you book your holiday accommodation in central Melbourne so you can make the most of all the events MIFF has to offer.

Mantra on the Park is a great option for your stay, located right in the centre of Melbourne's CBD so you can easily travel around for the festival. You'll enjoy all the comfort it has to offer, from stunning views out onto the World Heritage Carlton Gardens to the gym, sauna and heated pool.

Choose from a one-, two- or three-bedroom serviced apartment, offering plenty of style and convenience with kitchen and laundry included. This makes it easy to really settle in - so why not stay for the entirety of the festival?

In addition to this, if you ever need a bite to eat, Mantra on the Park has you covered with the Terrace Restaurant Restaurant Bar & Grill. Chow down on a steak, pasta, salad or pizza before heading out to your next film screening.

Mantra Southbank is another option right in the arty part of town, granting you perfect access to all the festivities. Why not treat yourself with a one-bedroom spa apartment or two-bedroom deluxe apartment.

Mantra on Little Bourke is something else to consider, close to the Melbourne Art Gallery, Melbourne Museum and Federation Square with a great variety of rooms and suites on offer.

Don't miss the excitement that is the Melbourne International Film Festival. Mix and mingle with up-and-coming talent and established stars and enjoy some truly inspiring cinema. You're sure to want to return and do it all again next year.