In Conversation with Elise Lamb

How do you identify/relate to the term ‘Underdog’ as a filmmaker?

I have always felt like a bit of an outsider and a little bit different. I knew I always wanted to make films growing up, I was raised by the greats of the 80’s – Spielberg, Lucas, Zemeckis & Hughes. Epic Adventures that start in backyards and take you to far away places. They taught me the blueprint for a great story. But I was worried I wasn’t cool enough as I was a Theatre Kid/Betty Bun Head (dancer) and all the cool kids made films. I’m also a woman trying to break into a very male dominated industry and role (writer/director). I’m very grateful to the people have shared space with me and welcomed me into the world of film. 

How did you get to where you are now/get started in film?

I have an extensive background in theatre and began my career as an actor/dancer/stunt performer at Movie World on the Gold Coast and Universal Studios Japan. As I grew with my career I realised I wanted to not only be the vessel for stories but also the creator of the stories. I expanded into writing, directing and producing and made my first short film back in 2012. I kept honing my skills and started learning about the camera (I’ve actually shot two short films as DOP), editing and began Assistant Directing and have worked my way up to 3rd AD (and On-Set 2nd AD Cover) so far which informs my practice as a filmmaker. I’m currently based in London where I’m developing and pitching my own slate of projects as Writer/Director and currently working as an Assistant Director on a Major Studio Film.

How do you see a festival like UDFF supporting your career journey as an emerging filmmaker? (ie. space to tell unique stories/be creative in approach to storytelling via films)

I grew up in Logan and went to Canterbury College so it’s incredibly special to be sharing my work at a local festival that champions Logan Talent. We actually shot the film within walking distance of the KBF Precinct and many of our cast and crew either live in Logan or have a connection to Logan so it’s an wonderful opportunity to showcase the talent that Logan generates. All of our team are working professionals and make what you watch in Cinemas and on Netflix and Stan. We came together to tell a story that we are all passionate about and to raise awareness for a very important and urgent social topic. We partnered with a beautiful organisation called the Centre For Women & Co. which is based in Logan and they do amazing work within the community to help end domestic Violence.

How else can the Australian film industry (eg schools, universities, film professionals, fellow filmmakers etc) better support your career journey? 

More pathways to work – more attachments and trainee positions on Films and TV Series – like it should be compulsory that every department has a trainee/attachment. Film is this magical beast that the only way to learn is by doing so more practical on the job training is essential for developing and supporting emerging talent. Championing local (Australian/ Queensland) stories and filmmakers – we have become a machine for international productions which is great for generating work but our talent very rarely has the opportunity to step up to HOD or Above The Line roles because our content isn’t being prioritised. Also more funding for emerging filmmakers and a less complicated application process for grants and funding (not all us got a 7 in Screen Business – I did and even I struggle). Having said that I do believe Queensland is the best place to be in regards to work and access to funding. Screen Queensland is very supportive of local talent and have been adapting and growing as our industry does. 

How else can governing bodies like Logan City Council or Screen QLD better support your career journey?

I think my above answer covers most of this question. When we made The Wilted Rose Screen Queensland didn’t have a short film fund available to us so we had to be strategic when it came to financing. Thankfully the Logan City Council offers the RADF which funded a good portion of our film. A lot of people don’t realise you can fund a short film with the RADF because it’s distributed through Arts Queensland so maybe starting a seperate Logan Short Film Fund to encourage local stories and support Logan talent could be an option. Also more mentorship and practical training opportunities that can lead to employment. Sadly the lack of opportunities and support is the reason I left Australia and moved to the UK. 

Where can people find your films?

Most of my films which have been released can be found on Vimeo or on my website. After winning the Brisbane International Film Festival, The Wilted Rose was acquired by an On Demand Streaming platform which we will be announcing in October and will be released in November. We are excited that our film and this vital story will reach a national audience. You can follow our film’s journey on Instagram @thewiltedrosefilm