Famous Australian Directors

Angela White is a highly acclaimed Australian pornographic film actress and director with a distinguished career in the adult entertainment industry. She is a prominent figure, having been inducted into both the AVN Hall of Fame and the XRCO Hall of Fame. Angela has achieved significant recognition for her work, notably becoming the first three-time Female Performer of the Year winner at AVN in 2020. Her professional achievements and contributions have solidified her reputation as a leading talent in the industry.

Simon Baker is an accomplished Australian actor and director, renowned for his portrayal of Patrick Jane in the acclaimed CBS drama series The Mentalist. His performance in the role garnered critical acclaim, earning him a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. Beyond his acting prowess, Baker has also delved into directing, showcasing his versatility and talent behind the camera. With a successful career spanning both in front of and behind the lens, Simon Baker continues to captivate audiences with his skill and artistry.

Bob Morley is a versatile Australian actor with a diverse range of roles in television and film. He gained recognition for his portrayal of Bellamy Blake in the popular series The 100. Morley's career includes appearances in Australian soap operas like Home and Away and Neighbours, as well as participation in reality TV and drama series. He has showcased his talent in various genres, from sports drama films to music talent shows, establishing himself as a skilled and adaptable actor in the industry.

Rachel Ward is a versatile professional in the entertainment industry, excelling as an English-Australian actress, film director, screenwriter, and television director. With a diverse skill set, she has made significant contributions to various aspects of filmmaking. Ward's acting prowess has been showcased in numerous films and TV shows, while her directorial and screenwriting talents have allowed her to leave a lasting impact on the industry. Her work reflects a passion for storytelling and a commitment to excellence in both performance and production.

James Wan is an Australian filmmaker known for his work in the horror genre. He is the co-creator of the Saw and Insidious franchises, as well as the creator of The Conjuring Universe. Wan is also the founder of film and television production company Atomic Monster. Beyond horror, he has directed successful films such as Furious 7, Aquaman, and its sequel Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. Wan's films have collectively grossed over $3.7 billion worldwide, making him one of the highest-grossing directors of all time.

Baz Luhrmann is an Australian film director, producer, writer, and actor known for his diverse projects spanning film, television, opera, theatre, music, and recording industries. He is considered an auteur for his distinctive style and deep involvement in the writing, directing, design, and musical aspects of his work. Luhrmann is the most commercially successful Australian director, with several of his films ranking among the top ten highest-grossing Australian films worldwide. He is renowned for his Red Curtain Trilogy, Grammy-nominated soundtracks, and successful stage productions.

Peter Lindsay Weir AM is an Australian retired film director known for his diverse and successful career spanning over forty years. He emerged as a prominent figure in the Australian New Wave cinema movement with films like "Picnic at Hanging Rock" and "Gallipoli." Weir gained international acclaim with "The Year of Living Dangerously" and went on to direct a range of acclaimed films across various genres, including "Dead Poets Society," "The Truman Show," and "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World." He received six Academy Award nominations and was honored with the Academy Honorary Award for his lifetime achievement in 2022.

Alex Russell is an accomplished Australian actor and director. He gained recognition for his performances in the films Chronicle (2012) and Believe Me (2014). In 2017, Russell landed a prominent role as Jim Street in the CBS crime action-drama series S.W.A.T. His versatile acting skills and dedication to his craft have solidified his position in the entertainment industry. Russell continues to captivate audiences with his compelling portrayals on screen, further establishing himself as a respected figure in the realm of film and television.

Tilda Cobham-Hervey is an Australian actress known for her versatile performances across film, stage, and television. She gained critical acclaim for her film debut in "52 Tuesdays" and went on to showcase her acting prowess in various projects, including the 2018 film "Hotel Mumbai" and the 2019 biopic "I Am Woman," where she portrayed feminist icon Helen Reddy. In 2023, she further solidified her reputation with a leading role in the Amazon Prime TV series "The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart," demonstrating her range and talent as an actress.

Justin Kurzel is an Australian film director known for his work in the film industry. With a career spanning several years, Kurzel has made a name for himself through his unique storytelling and directorial style. He has directed a number of successful films that have received critical acclaim and recognition. Kurzel's work showcases his talent for creating visually stunning and emotionally gripping stories that resonate with audiences worldwide. He continues to be a prominent figure in the Australian and international film scene, with his projects leaving a lasting impact on viewers.

John Villiers Farrow was an accomplished Australian film director, producer, and screenwriter who made a significant impact in the United States. Throughout his career, he earned critical acclaim for his work, receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Director for his film Wake Island in 1942. Farrow's talent also shone in screenwriting, as he won an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for Around the World in Eighty Days in 1957. His contributions to the film industry solidified his reputation as a skilled and versatile professional.

George Miller is an Australian filmmaker known for his work in creating the iconic Mad Max franchise, which has garnered critical and popular acclaim. He has also directed a variety of films across different genres, including action-adventure, dark fantasy comedy, and biographical medical drama. Miller has received numerous accolades for his work, including Academy Awards, British Academy Film Awards, and Golden Globe Awards. He has also ventured into producing and co-writing films, showcasing his versatility and talent in the film industry.

John Richard Pilger was an Australian journalist, writer, scholar, and documentary filmmaker who was based mainly in Britain. He was a critic of American, Australian, and British foreign policy, highlighting issues such as imperialism and colonialism. Pilger gained international attention for his reports on the Cambodian genocide and produced over 50 documentaries during his career. His works included documentaries on topics such as the aftermath of the Pol Pot regime in Cambodia and the treatment of Indigenous Australians. Pilger received awards for his journalism and documentaries, including Britain's Journalist of the Year Award.

Aden Young is a versatile actor known for his work in American, Canadian, and Australian productions. He gained recognition for his portrayal of Daniel Holden in the SundanceTV drama Rectify, earning two nominations for the Critics' Choice Television Award for Best Actor in a Drama Series. His talent has allowed him to excel in various roles, demonstrating his range and skill as an actor. In 2024, he took on the lead role of Det. Henry Graff in Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent, further showcasing his acting abilities.

Sir Robert Helpmann was an Australian ballet dancer, actor, director, and choreographer who made significant contributions to the world of performing arts. He began his career as a dancer with the Vic-Wells Ballet in Britain, later excelling as a principal dancer and choreographer. Helpmann also showcased his talent as an actor in plays and films, and as a director in various productions ranging from Shakespeare to opera and musicals. He co-directed the Australian Ballet and was recognized for his versatile and impactful work in the industry.

Andrew Dominik is an accomplished Australian film director and screenwriter known for his work in a variety of genres, including crime, Western drama, and neo-noir. He has directed critically acclaimed films such as "Chopper," "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford," and "Killing Them Softly," showcasing his ability to create compelling and visually striking narratives. In addition to his feature films, Dominik has also ventured into documentary filmmaking with "One More Time with Feeling" and has contributed to popular television series like "Mindhunter."

Cody Fern is an Australian actor and director known for his roles in various television series and films. He made his feature debut in The Tribes of Palos Verdes (2017) and gained recognition for portraying David Madson in The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story (2018) and Michael Langdon in American Horror Story: Apocalypse. He also appeared in House of Cards, American Horror Story: 1984, American Horror Story: Double Feature, and American Horror Stories, showcasing his versatility and talent as a performer.

Benedict Samuel is an Australian actor, writer, and director recognized for his roles in popular television series. He gained fame for portraying Jervis Tetch / Mad Hatter in the Fox crime series Gotham, showcasing his versatility and range as an actor. Additionally, he made a notable appearance as Owen in the acclaimed series The Walking Dead. Samuel's work in these roles has demonstrated his talent and ability to bring complex characters to life, earning him a dedicated following and critical acclaim in the entertainment industry.

Frank Thring was an Australian character actor known for his work in radio, stage, television, and film. His career began in London, where he appeared in various theatre productions before transitioning to Hollywood. He gained fame for his roles in iconic films like Ben-Hur (1959) and King of Kings (1961). Thring was also renowned for his distinctive style of always wearing black attire and decorating his home in black. His influence extended to his work as a theatre director, showcasing his versatility and talent in the entertainment industry.

Russell Crowe is a versatile actor, director, and musician with a successful career spanning decades. Known for his compelling performances on screen, he has received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, two Golden Globe Awards, and a British Academy Film Award. Crowe gained international recognition for his roles in films such as "Gladiator," "L.A. Confidential," and "A Beautiful Mind." In addition to his acting career, he made his directorial debut with "The Water Diviner" and is also known for his involvement in sports as the co-owner of the National Rugby League team South Sydney Rabbitohs.

Matilda Brown is a talented Australian actress, writer, and director with a diverse range of skills and experiences in the entertainment industry. She has demonstrated her versatility by excelling in various creative roles both in front of and behind the camera. Known for her captivating performances on screen, Brown has also proven her writing and directing abilities through engaging storytelling and innovative projects. With a passion for storytelling and a commitment to her craft, Matilda Brown continues to make a significant impact in the world of film and television.

Russell Mulcahy is an Australian director known for his work in film, television, and music videos. He gained recognition for directing music videos for artists such as Elton John and Duran Duran before transitioning to feature films. Mulcahy made his directorial debut with the horror film Razorback (1984) and achieved international success with the fantasy action film Highlander (1986). His diverse filmography includes sequels, superhero films, and biopics, as well as television series like Teen Wolf. Mulcahy's signature style includes fast cuts, tracking shots, and distinctive lighting techniques.

Robert Luketic is an accomplished Australian film director known for his work on a variety of successful films. His filmography includes popular movies such as Legally Blonde, Monster-in-Law, 21, Killers, and Paranoia. Luketic has demonstrated his versatility as a director by tackling different genres and themes throughout his career. With a keen eye for storytelling and visual style, he has earned a reputation for delivering entertaining and engaging films that resonate with audiences worldwide.

P. J. Hogan is an accomplished Australian film director and screenwriter, recognized for his work on several notable films. He gained widespread acclaim for directing the critically acclaimed films Muriel's Wedding (1994) and My Best Friend's Wedding (1997). Hogan further showcased his talent with the fantasy adventure film Peter Pan (2003) and the romantic comedy Confessions of a Shopaholic (2009). Known for his versatile storytelling and ability to bring characters to life on the screen, Hogan has solidified his reputation as a skilled filmmaker in the industry.

Hugh Keays-Byrne was a British-Australian actor known for his work on stage in England before moving to Australia in 1973. He gained recognition as a supporting actor in action and thriller films, with his breakthrough role as the antagonist Toecutter in the original Mad Max. He later portrayed the villain Immortan Joe in Mad Max: Fury Road. Keays-Byrne received nominations for an AACTA Award and won a Logie Award for his role in the television drama Rush. His legacy is honored in the 2024 prequel to Fury Road, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.

Leigh Whannell is an Australian filmmaker and actor known for his collaborations with director James Wan. Their partnership produced successful films such as Saw, Dead Silence, and the Insidious franchise. Whannell made his directorial debut with Insidious: Chapter 3 and has since directed Upgrade and The Invisible Man. He is a key figure in the Saw franchise, having written multiple installments and even appearing in some as a character. Whannell's work extends to video games and other films, showcasing his diverse talents in the industry.

John Hillcoat is a renowned Australian film director, screenwriter, and music video director. With a career spanning decades, he has established himself as a prominent figure in the film industry. Known for his distinctive visual style and storytelling prowess, Hillcoat has successfully brought to life a diverse range of projects across various mediums. His work is characterized by its gritty realism and immersive narratives, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated following of fans. Hillcoat continues to push boundaries and challenge conventions in the world of cinema.

Lyndall Hobbs is an Australian film director and producer known for her work in the entertainment industry. With a career spanning several decades, she has directed and produced a variety of films, showcasing her talent and creativity. Hobbs has worked on projects that have garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, establishing her as a respected figure in the film industry. Her contributions to cinema have left a lasting impact, inspiring and influencing many aspiring filmmakers and artists around the world.

Craig Gillespie is a versatile Australian-American director known for his work in film, television, music videos, and commercials. He has garnered acclaim for directing a diverse range of projects, including the critically acclaimed films Lars and the Real Girl, Fright Night, I, Tonya, and Cruella. Gillespie's skillful storytelling and unique visual style have established him as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. His ability to navigate different genres and mediums showcases his talent and versatility as a director.

Fred Schepisi is an accomplished Australian film director, producer, and screenwriter with a diverse range of credits to his name. He is renowned for his work on films such as The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith, Plenty, Roxanne, A Cry in the Dark, Mr. Baseball, Six Degrees of Separation, and Last Orders. Throughout his career, Schepisi has garnered critical acclaim for his storytelling abilities and has established himself as a prominent figure in the world of cinema with his unique and captivating filmography.

James McTeigue is an accomplished Australian film and television director known for his work in both assistant directing and directing roles. With experience in various successful projects such as Dark City, the Matrix trilogy, and Star Wars: Episode II, he made his directorial debut with the critically acclaimed film V for Vendetta in 2005. McTeigue has since continued to collaborate with the Wachowskis on multiple projects, including The Invasion, Ninja Assassin, Sense8, and as a producer on The Matrix Resurrections.

Jocelyn Denise Moorhouse is an acclaimed Australian screenwriter and film director known for her work on films such as Proof, How to Make an American Quilt, A Thousand Acres, and The Dressmaker. She has collaborated with her husband, film director P. J. Hogan, on successful projects like Muriel's Wedding and Mental. Moorhouse's talent and vision have cemented her reputation as a skilled storyteller and filmmaker, earning her recognition in the industry for her compelling and diverse body of work.

Bruce Beresford is an accomplished Australian film director, opera director, screenwriter, and producer with a prolific career spanning over 50 years. He emerged during the Australian New Wave and has directed over 30 feature films, garnering critical acclaim both locally and internationally. Beresford is a two-time Academy Award nominee and a four-time AACTA/AFI Awards winner. His notable works include "Breaker Morant," "Tender Mercies," "Crimes of the Heart," and "Driving Miss Daisy," which won four Oscars. Beresford's films have received numerous prestigious nominations and awards, showcasing his talent and versatility in the industry.

Gillian Armstrong is an accomplished Australian film director known for her work on My Brilliant Career, Little Women, The Last Days of Chez Nous, and Mrs. Soffel. She has received prestigious awards such as the AFI Best Director Award and has been recognized with nominations for esteemed honors like the Palme D'Or and Golden Bear Awards. Additionally, Armstrong has been bestowed with several Honorary Doctorates, including from the University of Sydney and Swinburne University of Technology, highlighting her significant contributions to the film industry.

John Jarratt is an accomplished Australian television and film actor, producer, director, and TV presenter known for his significant contributions to the Australian New Wave. He has built a diverse career through roles in iconic films such as "Picnic at Hanging Rock," "Summer City," "The Odd Angry Shot," "We of the Never Never," "Next of Kin," and "Dark Age." Jarratt notably portrayed the menacing Mick Taylor in the Wolf Creek franchise and has showcased his talent in various television projects, including the drama series McLeod's Daughters.

Jim Sharman is an accomplished Australian director and writer with over 70 productions to his credit. He has gained recognition for his work as a theatre director since the 1960s, both in Australia and internationally. Sharman is best known for his directorial roles in the iconic productions of The Rocky Horror Show, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and Shock Treatment. His contributions to the stage and film industry have solidified his reputation as a talented and influential figure in the entertainment world.

John Polson is an accomplished Australian actor, director, and founder of Tropfest, the world's largest short film festival. He is known for his roles in films such as The Sum of Us (1994) alongside Russell Crowe and Jack Thompson. As a director, Polson has received recognition for his work, including winning the Minami Toshiko Award at the Yubari International Fantastic Film Festival for his film Siam Sunset. He has directed successful films like Hide and Seek (2005) and Tenderness (2009), which featured acclaimed actors like Russell Crowe and Laura Dern. Polson's contributions to the film industry have been further acknowledged through awards like the International Achievement Award at the APRA Screen Music Awards.

Nash Edgerton is an accomplished Australian film director, stuntman, and actor, known for his contributions as a principal member of Blue-Tongue Films. With a diverse skill set, Edgerton has excelled in various aspects of filmmaking, from directing to performing stunts on screen. His work reflects a keen eye for storytelling and a commitment to delivering high-quality cinematic experiences. Through his involvement with Blue-Tongue Films, Edgerton has made significant contributions to the Australian film industry, solidifying his reputation as a talented and versatile professional.

Alexander Proyas is an accomplished Australian film director renowned for his work on several critically acclaimed movies. He gained recognition for directing the dark fantasy film The Crow in 1994, followed by the visually stunning sci-fi noir Dark City in 1998. Proyas continued to showcase his talent with the futuristic action film I, Robot in 2004 and the gripping thriller Knowing in 2009. His distinctive style and ability to create immersive cinematic experiences have solidified his reputation as a visionary director in the industry.

Carol Ann Burns was an accomplished Australian actress, theatre director, and arts patron with a prolific 50-year career. She made significant contributions to theatre and television in Australia and the UK, appearing in numerous serials, telemovies, and mini-series. Notably, she was a founding member of the Queensland Theatre Company. Burns garnered widespread acclaim for her role as Franky Doyle in the original cast of the serial "Prisoner," earning cult status as a fan favorite despite appearing in only the first 20 episodes.

Khoa Do is a highly accomplished Vietnamese-born Australian film director, screenwriter, and philanthropist. He has made significant contributions to the Australian film industry through his impactful work behind the camera. In 2005, he was recognized with the prestigious Young Australian of the Year Award, highlighting his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. Through his films, Khoa Do has not only entertained audiences but also shed light on important social issues, showcasing his versatility and commitment to storytelling.

Paul Fenech is an Australian filmmaker, actor, director, producer, and writer known for his work in television and film. He has gained prominence for his roles in creating, writing, directing, and starring in various successful projects including the television series Pizza, Swift and Shift Couriers, Housos, Bogan Hunters, and Darradong Local Council. Additionally, Fenech has been involved in producing motion pictures such as Fat Pizza, Housos vs. Authority, Fat Pizza vs. Housos, and Dumb Criminals: The Movie, showcasing his versatility and talent across different mediums.

Storm Keating is an accomplished Australian brand ambassador, television producer, and director currently residing in London. With an extensive background in television production, she has been involved in various popular Australian and British TV programs including The Apprentice Australia, Masterchef Australia, The X Factor, The Voice Australia, and The Voice UK. Her expertise and contributions to the entertainment industry have solidified her reputation as a talented professional in the field of television production and direction.

Mojean Aria is an accomplished Australian actor, writer, and producer. In 2017, he achieved a significant milestone in his career by winning the prestigious Heath Ledger Scholarship. This recognition highlights his talent and dedication to the craft. Throughout his professional journey, Aria has demonstrated versatility and skill in various aspects of the entertainment industry. His work as an actor, writer, and producer showcases his passion for storytelling and his ability to bring characters to life on screen. Aria continues to make a mark in the industry with his talent and creativity.

Phillip Noyce is an accomplished Australian film and television director with a diverse body of work spanning over four decades. Known for his versatility, he has directed a wide range of genres including historical dramas, thrillers, and action films. Noyce has collaborated with a variety of talented actors and has helmed successful adaptations of popular novels. His work has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, establishing him as a respected figure in the industry with a legacy of impactful storytelling on both the big and small screens.

Edward Jeffries is a popular Australian actor and director known for his work in the film ‘Team Orion The Fight For Freedom,’ where he served as the writer, director, and composer, in addition to playing a role. He is also a member of the band ‘The Stars of Orion’ and has released successful singles and albums. Jeffries developed a passion for performing arts from a young age and transitioned into a full-time career as an actor and director after initially facing challenges.

Phoenix Raei is an Australian actor, director, and producer of Iranian descent. He gained recognition for his work in the Australian TV soap "The Heights" and received the Casting Guild of Australia's Rising Star Award in 2019. Raei's talent and versatility were further showcased in his starring role in the Netflix series "Clickbait" in 2021. With a background in acting, directing, and producing, Raei continues to make a mark in the entertainment industry with his diverse skills and captivating performances.

Nabil Elderkin is an accomplished film and music video director and photographer known for his work with a diverse range of musical artists. He has directed videos for prominent figures in the industry such as Dua Lipa, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Frank Ocean, John Legend, Arctic Monkeys, and Foals. With a background in both the United States and Australia, Elderkin is currently based in Los Angeles, California, where he continues to make a significant impact in the world of visual storytelling in music.

Ray Lawler was a prominent Australian playwright, actor, theatre producer, and director known for his significant contributions to Australian drama. His most renowned work, "Summer of the Seventeenth Doll," premiered in 1955 and is considered a masterpiece of the 20th century. This play marked a turning point in Australian theatre. Lawler's professional career was distinguished by his talent for storytelling and his ability to captivate audiences with his work, which included successful adaptations for both stage and screen.

Martin Ritchie Sharp AM was a versatile Australian professional known for his talents in art, cartooning, songwriting, and filmmaking. He made significant contributions to the artistic world through his innovative and eclectic work, which often featured vibrant colors and psychedelic themes. Sharp's cartoons and illustrations were widely acclaimed for their unique style, while his songwriting and filmmaking endeavors showcased his creativity and storytelling abilities. Throughout his career, Sharp was recognized for his artistic vision and his impact on the cultural landscape.

Yoram Jerzy Gross was a prominent film and television producer, animation director, and writer specializing in children's and family entertainment. He established the renowned animation studio Flying Bark Productions, gaining recognition for his adaptations of beloved children's characters from books and films. Gross was particularly celebrated for his work on iconic films like Dot and the Kangaroo and Blinky Bill: The Mischievous Koala. His legacy in the industry is characterized by a commitment to creating engaging and memorable content for young audiences worldwide.

Helmut Bakaitis is a versatile professional in the entertainment industry, excelling as a director, actor, screenwriter, and playwright. He gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of the Architect in the popular films The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions. Bakaitis' talent and dedication have allowed him to leave a lasting impact on audiences worldwide through his performances and contributions to various aspects of filmmaking. His work showcases a diverse range of skills and a deep understanding of storytelling and character development.