Actor, director, and writer Garth Edwards is rallying behind anyone with aspirations for a career in the screen industry, urging them to “just go for it.” From his work in the writers’ room of ABC’s beloved Black Comedy to his involvement in one of Australia’s premier film festivals, Edwards is proving that with passion and determination, the industry can be within reach. Garth Edwards: Championing Dreams in the Screen Industry
Audiences might recognize Garth Edwards from his roles in the Indigenous-led sketch show Black Comedy, the 2018 film The BBQ, the US production Young Rock, and the revamped Australian classic Heartbreak High. However, it was his experience in the writers’ room for Black Comedy that ignited his passion for working behind the camera.
“There was an opportunity to go into the writer’s room, and I came up with a sketch for season 4 that ended up making it into the show,” Edwards shared. “That experience led me to start creating my own content, which eventually brought me to pursue the Digital Media course.”
Edwards, who grew up in Innisfail, is currently in his second year of studies at Central Queensland University (CQU) in Far-North Queensland. His journey through the program has bolstered his confidence and driven him to explore more opportunities in the screen industry.
“Studying here has given me the courage and strength to pursue more,” Edwards said. The region, rich in talent and potential, is becoming a pivotal part of Australia’s screen landscape—an area where Edwards is already making his mark.
In 2022, Edwards’ film Mavis – The Claws of Vengeance won Best Fiction Film at the Understory Film Festival in Cairns. His latest feature-length directorial debut was also filmed in North Queensland, utilizing local crews and talent. “It was all filmed in North Queensland with local crews, apart from a few people I’ve worked with in the past,” he said. “I wrote the script and received a lot of support while doing the Digital Media course. Some of the green screen scenes for the film were even shot at CQU.”
With the recent opening of a Screen Queensland production studio in Cairns, Edwards is optimistic about the region’s future in the industry. “There’s so much happening here,” he noted.
As he prepares for the upcoming release of the Melbourne-shot black comedy The Organist and a panel discussion at the Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) this week, Edwards is encouraging others to pursue their dreams in the screen industry.
“If it’s in your heart, don’t listen to anyone but yourself. You’ll see that the industry isn’t as far away as you think,” he advised. “Don’t be ashamed to chase it. Be an actor, be a grip, or be a makeup artist—whatever you’re passionate about. And reach out to your university; they have the resources and training to help you.”
Throughout his studies, Edwards has been supported by CQU’s Indigenous Student Engagement team and the Indigenous Tutorial Assistance program, which have played a crucial role in his journey.
Garth Edwards’ story is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and the importance of embracing opportunities in the screen industry. His journey serves as an inspiration for anyone dreaming of making their mark in film and television.
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