Statues

From an ensemble, award-winning South Australian cast and crew, I'm proud to present our magnum opus short film, Statues. This deeply personal and vulnerable picture explores a unique perspective on family, masculinity, and grief.

In reflecting on my experience with loss, including the death of a mutual friend by suicide, I was reminded of the profound impact this issue has on so many lives. With over 3,000 deaths by suicide occurring each year in Australia alone, and my own personal connection to this pain, I realised that this film could serve as a powerful vehicle for change. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness and most importantly, spark important conversations.

The cast and crew worked across a transformative nine-day shoot inside our main location and throughout South Australia. Shooting on large-format cinema cameras (in 4K and 6K) and using a blend of industry-standard and natural lighting, the team achieved magnificent visual results. We then spent six months finalising the edit, colour, and sound. Thousands of custom-designed sounds were mixed in 5.1 surround, layered beneath visuals processed through internal ‘film out’ colour grading — a 35mm film emulation process — to give the film the depth, saturation, and contrast of true Kodak and Fujifilm stock.

Visual effects were handled internally at 10:12 Post-Production. All post-production was completed by Myles McEwen, under the supervision and support of myself and other key creatives.

One of the most significant elements of the film’s completion was working with South Australian composer and writer Amelia Rooney. Alongside a group of talented musicians, Amelia crafted a profoundly organic and emotional soundtrack that brings unparalleled depth to the film.

While the story centres on two flawed brothers, a powerful feminine force — embodied by the character Annabelle Cellini — drives the narrative, supported by a score crafted by a woman. Alexandra Todorashko, an award-winning South Australian actress, delivers a haunting performance as Steph in the film’s unforgettable final sequence. These feminine perspectives have shaped a profound exploration of masculinity and femininity, challenging the idea of individuality and evoking complex sexual undercurrents.

Statues is a deeply Australian film that unpacks masculinity and its ties to depression, spirituality, grief, identity, and sexuality. Made with a large, diverse crew of Adelaide talent, along with award-winning actors and filmmakers, the film came to life through a year of passion, love, and dedication. Our executive producer, Ryan Davies (The Doghouse, Gate/s), helped us secure equipment, locations, crew, and funding.

The film challenges the idea of masculinity and expresses the belief that growth, transition, and change require vulnerability — a willingness to face flaws and insecurities head-on. Without this openness, emotional and personal evolution is impossible. Annabelle Cellini, as a spiritual figure, represents a powerful feminine presence that — even beyond the grave — enables Olli and Marcus to emerge from darkness and rediscover their loving, authentic selves. This ambitious picture dives deep into the story of two brothers, especially Marcus (the lead), played by Myles McEwen, who delivers a career-defining performance alongside his co-lead role in Nightfall: A Paranormal Investigation.

Working with close collaborator Brad McCarthy ("Emotion is Dead," "Numbered Lives"), we were able to elevate the film’s creative scope, bringing an experienced voice to the team that also strengthens our presence on the festival circuit.

I would like to thank Winter Pines Film Group, 10:12, Vinny Walsh Films, and Fortiego Films for making this film possible. Special thanks to 27 Music for allowing us to include Running on Empty by Triple J-praised band The Tullamarines. These diverse, heartfelt collaborations — much like the characters in the film — make Statues a must-see South Australian film.