Hollywood is over-flowing with screen heroines in action films, dramas and comedies, but where are Australia’s?
ADVERTISEMENT
One of Australia’s most experienced screenwriters has criticised sexism in casting which she says discriminates against women who aren’t deemed attractive and those from ethnic backgrounds.
When Matt Levett was nominated for this year’s Heath Ledger Scholarship along with 17 other rising talents, the actor didn’t fancy his chances amongst what he described as a “an intimidating†line-up.
Screen Producers Australia has established an office in Los Angeles, spearheaded by Simonne Overend, President of LA-based Australians in Film.
Jazz musician Alan Hicks has directed just one feature documentary, Keep On Keepin' On, but he’s just won a $50,000 prize.
Screen Australia is selling the former Film Australia studio and office facilities in Lindfield on Sydney’s upper north shore.
Screen Australia research shows female writers, directors and producers are still sorely under-represented in Australian feature films, although women are better represented in the documentary sphere.
When Warner Bros. pulled the plug in 2008 on Justice League Mortal, which George Miller wanted to shoot in Australia, the local industry lost a production that would have employed hundreds of crew and supporting actors.