Q&A with filmmaker Max Conaghan

WHEN 19-YEAR-OLD Max Conaghan isn’t studying for his film degree or hitting up the freelance scene, he’s usually making short films with his mates. 

So Max, what inspired you to be  a filmmaker?
I loved acting and telling funny stories and jokes as a kid, so I think initially I was inspired to make films as a way to get in front of the camera, and to try and make the people around me laugh!

Tell us about your filmmaking experience so far.
I’ve been part of dozens of short films with my friends up here in Darwin, as well as doing freelance photography and video for various people and companies over the years. 

I was also flown to the 2018 Bond University Film & Television Awards (BUFTA) as a finalist for my film Bailey.

What advice would you give to other filmmakers?
Just shoot it! You’ll always be your own worst critic, so just mute that voice in your head and make what you want to make. It’s better to make a film you don’t love and learn from it, than to never have made it at all.

What’s your favourite scene from  a movie and why?
Most recently, my favourite scene is from Peanut Butter Falcon when the two main characters first set off on their adventure together. The dialogue in the scene was perfectly written, and both actors hit the nail on the head with their performance. 

What are your plans for the future?
This industry has so many amazing opportunities, so honestly, my only plan for the future is to finish my film degree in Melbourne and continue to explore everything filmmaking has to offer. 

I’ve got a few promising ideas for Darwin films that I’m quite excited about, so keep an eye out!

INFO instagram.com/max_conaghan | youtube.com/maxconaghan

Photo: by Joel Curby