Did you know Australia is credited with producing the first-ever feature film?
This was during the silent movie era, when Australia had its own thriving industry, filed with glamourous stars and passionate studios.
In 1926, Australia’s first all-female production company released their romantic, expressionistic film, beating that year’s Charlie Chaplin movie at the box office.
Producer and film director Rebecca Barry reveals the story of Paulette, Phyllis and Isabel McDonagh - three sisters who sought to capture hearts and leave their artistic mark on the local film scene – and shows us what that means for Australian creatives today.
Hear as comedian Freya Reviews discovers these remarkable sisters for the first time, despite having a degree in film (we blame the lecturer!).
Hosted by Rachel Rayner, Science Explainer
Links for more:
Highlight article by Rachel Rayner, Science Explainer
Rebecca Barry on IMDB and her production company Media Stockade
Rebecca’s film on the McDonagh sisters on Youtube (thanks Rebecca!)
Her more recent film, Mozart’s Sister, which won two AACTAs
Follow Freya and find out what she’s up to now
More resources on the sisters at the National Film and Sound Archive
Credits
Producer: Rachel Rayner, Science Explainer
Guests: Dr Rebecca Barry, Freya Reviews
Studio: Damn Good Production
Music: Michelle Cashman
Editing: HoboHut Media
Made possible through Meta Australia Journalism Fund, administered by the Walkley Foundation, with support from Comedy Victoria.
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