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Student film delights audiences at Cannes

Most high school students can only dream of a trip to the Cannes Film Festival. To actually have your student film featured must be out of this world. That’s exactly what happened to 18 year-old Brady O’Sullivan and his film, Sydney 2078. The SAE film student caught up with us to discuss Cannes and meeting his acting hero Woody Harrelson.
SAE Student at Cannes Film Festival

The film was created as part of his HSC at Balgowlah Boys Campus, and is about a teenager from the Northern Beaches with a fascination for science fiction, that leads him on a interdimensional journey into the future. Brady was astonished that that the film was selected by The American Pavilion Emerging filmmaker showcase as one of seven finalists in its high school films category.

“I honestly didn’t expect it, so it was amazing to hear I was a finalist. I entered my film in a bunch of festivals, and often you don’t expect anything, so to be selected and featured at Cannes is incredible,” Brady enthused.

Meeting Woody

The Cannes Film Festival is one of the most internationally recognised and respected events in the cinema calendar. Travelling to the French Riviera gave Brady the chance to rub shoulders with some stellar names in the industry, including his acting hero Woody Harrelson.

“Getting to meet Woody was a cool experience, he’s really down to earth. That was the first time I’ve met an A-list actor, I really was starstruck,” he said.

Brady O'Sullivan

“It was a great experience going over to Cannes, while getting the chance to network and meet new people. I was able to go to a number of film premiers including the David Bowie documentary, Moonage Daydream, while also seeing my own film.”

Pursuing his creative passion

After finishing high school, Brady wanted to develop his film skills further, and explored a range of options before deciding on SAE Sydney.

“I felt SAE’s approach to film, and the way in which they prepare you for the industry aligned with where I want to go in my career. Particularly in terms of making feature and narrative films,” Brady explained.

“Having other students from other disciplines like animation, design, audio, will present greater opportunities for collaboration.”

Once he graduates from SAE, Brady has ambitions to shape the narrative behind the camera. “I’m really passionate about telling stories, so I’d love to one day work as a director of photography, and ultimately as a director of a feature film.”

SAE General Manager, Dr Luke McMillan congratulated Brady on the success of his film.

“What Brady has achieved at such a young age is a fantastic testament to his skills as a filmmaker and his ability to identify a clear narrative that engages with audiences. I look forward to hearing about his growth as a creative practitioner, and no-doubt a successful career in the film industry once he graduates.”

SAE student filming. Orange light hue. Event at SAE. behind the scenes

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