Griffith Film School is throwing open its doors to the public this month for a blockbuster Masters showcase.
Film buffs can enjoy a series of free workshops and panel discussions, including a directing masterclass with renowned US filmmaker and educator Mark Travis.
Mark has directed several features, and acted as a creative consultant on films including Men of Honour and Barbershop, and TV shows including Ally McBeal, Melrose Place, NYPD Blue and The Practice.
The showcase, presented with Screen Queensland, will also feature free screenings of some of the best films produced by the Master of Screen Production students.
Acting Head of Griffith Film School Professor Trish FitzSimons said it was an opportunity for local movie fans to catch the work of up-and-coming filmmakers.
“This is a chance to see award-winning work by Griffith filmmakers, many of whom have already received industry recognition,” she said.
“Our Master of Screen Production students are producing some of the most exciting work in the country, and the showcase provides an opportunity for people who are passionate about film to take a look behind the scenes, engage with industry professionals and support young filmmakers.”
Masters student Morgan Healy recently won an Australian Directors’ Guild award for his short film, Disabused.
“Lots of idols of mine were at the awards ceremony, like Peter Weir and Garth Davies, so it was pretty special,” he said.
“It was a great opportunity to sit down and talk to other directors, and get some insight into their experiences and the craft.”
He credits the Masters course with giving him the opportunity to pursue his own projects.
“A degree like this gives you the space to be creative and there are lots of amazing mentors who encourage and support your projects.
“Coming back as an older student, I am just determined to work on as many projects as I can, and not let anything get in the way.
“I’ve made three films in the past 18 months!”
Morgan believes having a Masters will give him the edge he needs in a competitive industry.
“It is a tough industry,” he said.
“You need to raise at least $5 million to make a feature film, so you have to prove that you are worthy and able to meet the challenge.”
Fellow Master of Screen Production student Ben Cotgrove recently picked up an Australian Cinematography Society Golden Tripod Award for the Masters productionLittle Kingdom.
The film’s director, Rachel Anderson, was nominated for an ADG Award last year, and Little Kingdom has been selected to screen at festivals around the world.
WHAT: Master of Screen Production Showcase
WHEN: 27-28 May
WHERE: Griffith Film School Theatre, Cnr Dock and Vulture Streets, South Brisbane
REGISTRATION: Events are free. Registration is available through Event Brite