Star Spotlight: Joel Edgerton

As someone who has completed a diploma in scriptwriting, I have an ever-present love of cinematic craft, though it may not always be at the forefront of my mind. However, it is easily triggered by exciting events, such as the upcoming Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF.com.au). I am particularly excited for the Festival’s big closing night event: the (Australian) premiere of Australian film Felony. The movie is produced, written by and stars Joel Edgerton, a man who is doing wonders for the reputation of Australian film talent and therefore frequently piquing my curiosity.

For me, the first time Edgerton popped up on my radar was the release of a film about an Australian legend I was particularly into at the time – Ned Kelly. In this movie, Edgerton plays Aaron Sherritt, one of the famous Kelly Gang members. If I’m honest, I was captivated more by the storytelling and the acting of fellow Aussie Heath Ledger in the title role, alongside rising star at the time, Orlando Bloom. But I certainly remembered the name next time it cropped up, mostly because I recognised that he was an Australian actor, and beginning to make a name for himself overseas.

He is certainly not the first Australian to have done so. Hugh Jackman has become an international superstar, the Hemsworth brothers are growing greater reputation every day; Nicole Kidman, Cate Blanchett, even ‘adopted’ Aussies like Russell Crowe and Sam Neil are well-known names around the globe. What I think what makes Edgerton stand out amongst these is that he constantly returns to his roots.

In 2010, he starred in the film Animal Kingdom, a story about life amongst a Melbourne crime family. The film received a host of nominations and awards, and a high level of praise that served to remind the public that the Australian Film Industry should not be overlooked. Edgerton then again boosted his reputation with an almost flawless performance as Brandon Conlon in Warrior, alongside Tom Hardy and Nick Nolte. (Side note: I cannot recommend this film highly enough. It’s the first film I’ve both loved and hated equally since Leaving Las Vegas.) Despite this international success and those that followed, Edgerton again returns to Australia for Felony, a movie about an accident committed by a cop and the choices and consequences that follow. It seems a simple enough plot idea, and one that may have been easily adapted to an American setting. But Edgerton stays true to his heritage and I believe that deserves a great deal of respect. This is clearly a man who is in the business of film for a love of the craft, and this dedication means his work shines on its own merit.

Following Joel Edgerton’s journey through film renews my excitement for the movie-making process. It inspires me to see Australians making themselves known and using that reputation to show that Australia makes films that we can be proud of. They don’t have to be full of stereotypes or uniquely Australian references; all they need is a decent story and a strong team to put it together. Felony is directed by Matthew Saville and the cast includes, alongside Edgerton: Tom Wilkinson, Jai Courtney and Melissa George, the latter two being other Australian actors who have seen success overseas. Wilkinson, a well-known British actor, lends strength to the film simply by his choice to accept the role.

Just the potential of this film has me buzzing with excitement.

There is a possibility that the film may disappoint, but I find it unlikely. Edgerton seems to be going from strength to strength and this story seems to be one that will be relatable to viewers outside of Australia, a necessary consideration for the future of the Australian Film Industry. I believe this will be a film that not just the cast and crew, but the entire nation, can be proud of.

*Felony premieres in Australia at the Melbourne International Film Festival on August 16 and hits cinemas August 28.

*You can buy tickets for the premiere and other MIFF events via the website.

*If you want more information about Felony, they have a Facebook page.

*For further information regarding Joel Edgerton or his films, I recommend IMDb as an excellent starting point.