While the impact of coronavirus on the screen industry has been tough for all, producer Sue Maslin is concerned that the independent documentary sector is falling through the cracks.
Netflix, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Fox Studios Australia and Ausfilm have partnered to support a new wellbeing social enterprise led by Ben Steel, including training to upskill 60 production and post-production leaders in mental health first aid.
"The screen industry is sadly lagging very far behind, but I’m hopeful that these webinars will be the catalyst to help change that.”
"We have to find a better way to support people and change the practices of how people enter the industry.”
Given the impact of the pandemic on the screen sector, emerging from lockdown should feel like relief. However, for many, the truth is likely to be more complicated – and that’s okay, writes actor, filmmaker and mental health advocate Ben Steel ('The Show Must Go On').
Hoodlum Entertainment's Nathan Mayfield was devastated when the pandemic forced a halt to filming the third season of the ABC's Harrow and the second of Network 10's Five Bedrooms.
Filmed over three years, 'The Show Must Go On' is an important and moving exploration of the mental health of the 42,000 people working in the Australian entertainment industry.
Film Victoria has announced $2 million in production funding across 11 film, television and online projects, including Matchbox Pictures' upcoming SBS series 'Hungry Ghosts'.