Filmmaker is named as finalist

An Empire Bay filmmaker has been named one of 16 finalists in this year's Tropfest set to kick off on Sunday, December 8.

John Marsh has been recognised for his short film titled Darkness Comes which was shot in an abandoned, overgrown farmhouse in the country town of Binya, just outside of Griffith.

The film tells the story of a man who is racing desperately against the setting of the sun as if pursued by the devil.

The man sprints through a barren field, seeking the safe haven of a derelict farmhouse.

Mr Marsh's directorial debut "Happenstance" was an award-winning finalist at Tropfest in 2010.

He recently co-founded the production company Idea Garage with long-time collaborator and friend Dane Hallett.

"Darkness Comes" is the first collaboration from the pair and also sees Manly winger Dave Williams make his acting debut.

Tropfest founder and director Mr John Polson said he was pleasantly surprised by the number and quality of submissions that the festival received.

"We are thrilled by the strength, creativity and originality of the films submitted," Mr Polson said.

"The ideas, influences and filmmaking approaches are never the same and that's been no different this time around.

"Considering that the festival was last held in February this year, it has been great to see that many filmmakers still have the same passion, hunger and interest in showcasing their work through our platform.

"It's so fantastic to see that short film is alive and kicking in Australia and around the world."

Tropfest is the world's largest short film festival and this year's signature item was "change".

The finalists will be judged by a panel of celebrities and industry heavyweights, with past judges including Nicole Kidman, Ewan McGregor, Cate Blanchett and Will Smith.

Media release, 19 Nov 2013

Cardinal Spin