In Partnership with SXSW
Consider yourself a cinephile or filmmaker? This year’s SXSW Sydney Screen Festival is your ultimate ticket to insider knowledge, cutting-edge techniques and unfiltered inspiration.
Featuring a stellar lineup of global talent, the festival is an unmissable opportunity to learn from some of the best in the business. From Australia’s award-winning filmmakers to internationally acclaimed talent, the 2024 Screen Program promises to unlock the ‘how’ behind some of the most talked-about films and TV shows in the world, offering unique insights into the creative minds behind them.
Below, we explore some of the most exciting filmmakers featured on the program.
Warwick Thornton gives a director’s insight
It’s not every day you get to sit in on a live director’s commentary, especially from someone as visionary as Warwick Thornton. With credits including “The New Boy,” “Samson and Delilah” and “Sweet Country,” Thornton is one of Australia’s most celebrated filmmakers. He’s bringing his expertise to SXSW Sydney in a truly special session where he’ll break down one of his critically acclaimed films, frame by frame. Attendees will get an exclusive look into the creative process that has earned him a Camera d’Or (Golden Camera) at Cannes Film Festival, as well as a shelf full of other accolades.
When: Saturday 19 October, 11am
Where: Fortress Sydney, Alienware Arena
Jed Kurzel on scoring tension
How do you make an audience’s pulse quicken with just a few notes? Award-winning composer, Jed Kurzel, is showing us all how it’s done in his live composer’s commentary. Best known for his spine-chilling work on films like “The Babadook” and “Alien: Covenant<‘ Kurzel’s session will explore his approach to scoring some of the most intense opening sequences in film – where every note and every silence adds to the drama unfolding on screen.
When: Friday 18 October, 11am
Where: Fortress Sydney, Alienware Arena
Josey McNamara goes behind-the-scenes
Josey McNamara – from Margot Robbie’s production company, LuckyChap Entertainment – has been behind some of the biggest, most-talked-about films of the last few years. His work spans the bright and satirical “Barbie” to the darkly addictive “Saltburn.” At SXSW Sydney, McNamara will host a Q&A session to walk attendees through the company’s approach to producing hits that not only dominate the box office, but spark global culture conversations and internet virality.
When: Friday 18 October, 11:45am
Where: Novotel Darling Square, Darling Harbour Room
Mark Andrews explores Pixar magic
If animated storytelling is your passion, you’ll want to circle Mark Andrews’ session on your calendar. The director of “Brave” and a longtime contributor to Pixar’s hit films will be at SXSW Sydney to go behind the scenes of his latest projects at Floating Rock, an independent animation studio. Known for his ability to blend heart, humour and action, Andrews’ session will offer invaluable tips on crafting stories that make an impact.
When: Friday 18 October, 8:30am
Where: Novotel Darling Square, Darling Harbour Room
Simon McQuoid masters action
Few people know how to choreograph action like Simon McQuoid, the director behind “Mortal Kombat” and its upcoming sequel. His session promises to take attendees into the world of blockbuster action filmmaking, breaking down the art of staging fights, balancing visual effects with practical stunts, and crafting sequences that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
When: Friday 18 October, 11:45am
Where: ICC Sydney, Cockle Bay 1
Lucy Lawless discusses documentaries
Lucy Lawless has been an on-screen favourite for decades, but now she’s stepping behind the camera for her directorial debut. In her SXSW Sydney fireside chat with Patricia Karvelas (host of ABC TV’s “Q+A” and “Radio National Breakfast”), Lawless will discuss her documentary film about war zone photojournalist, Margaret Moth. This conversation will be an inspiring look at Lawless’ evolution as a filmmaker and the importance of telling stories that matter.
When: Tuesday 15 October, 12pm
Where: ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour Theatre
Ready to feel inspired? Sessions are exclusive to Platinum and Screen badge holders, and spots are filling up fast. Secure your badge today at SXSW Sydney.