Craig Wyhoon

I originally grew up on a farm in the Southern parts of Australia. I developed a love for horses, cattle and general farm life. My love for drama began at 17 at High school when my English teacher recommended for me to do theatre after a reading of MacBeth. After a few theatre productions and developed a love for acting and drama, I studied at the former Academy of Television, in Melbourne (Acting). After obtaining an agent, I moved into various TVC, Television Drama, TV Series and other minor extra and advanced extra roles, gaining experience in aspects of film and acting technique. Moving forward many years, and after producing the film 'Loki and Me', I now teach and oversee a Film & Drama program for people with disabilities. I am an advocate for giving people with disabilities, the opportunity to show the world their abilities and talents through film, acting and performance.

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Your project has entered in our festival. What is your project about?
Loki and Me is set in 1893 based on a story about two young children, both with disabilities, who encounter the harsh realities of how society struggled to accept those who had a disability or impairment in rural Australia. After hearing of a rumour about a far away place that accepts those as equal, they run into a horseman that will kindly lead them the way on their journey. And once they finally arrive, they then realise that it was this horseman that was destined to set them free.

What are your ambitions with your project?
First and foremost is to recognise the talents and abilities of those with a disability as either an actor, actress or as part of a film crew. Secondly, to share this story with the world by submitting our film to local and international film festivals, providing awareness of the abilities of people with disabilities.

Tell us something about your shooting? What pleasantly surprised you?
How everyone involved, having the same goals in mind, worked tremendously as a team and the amazing acting from our young cast.

For what group of spectators is your film targeted?
Based on the story of Loki and Me, it is directed at multiple audiences but in particularly, one who loves a film with adventure, emotion and beautiful endings.

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Why should distributors buy your film?
There is opportunity to create a sequel, movie length feature or series based on the initial storyline of Loki and Me. It is raw and it is original. It tells a story of true facts of what life was like in the 1800's rural Australia.

Why did you decided to become a filmmaker?
To create and share stories that the audience can either relate to and/or be a part of that they can then be inspired by. To express and create a vision that others may not see until it is on film.

Who is your role model?
Anyone with a disability that sets out to achieve greatness and who is motivated to share their talents and abilities to the world.

Which movies are your Favorites? Why?
Forrest Gump. Wonderful acting and acknowledgment of the abilities of a person with a disability.

Where do you look for inspiration for your films?
Not on TV. I look outside my front door and into the world of others.

Which topics interest you the most?
Historical events or themes.

What do you consider your greatest achievement in your career?
Becoming the Writer/Producer and Director of 'Loki and Me' followed up with multiple international film awards.

What do you consider most important about filming?
I believe you must have a creative mind but also have the ability to be coordinated and have an eye for detail.

Which film technique of shooting do you consider the best?
I believe the techniques are all great and is suited to the scene or angle you are trying to film accordingly. I do like the close up shot as it clearly defines the emotions the actor is trying to portray as that character.

How would you rate/What is your opinion about current filmmaking?
Filmmaking has evolved into a very creative and imaginative industry using technology and AI for more realistic and interactive films. It is however, has become more harder to enter into and explore opportunities compared to 20 years ago.

What can disappoint you in a movie?
Bad acting. Also, the lack of thought into the storyline or screenplay.

Who supports you in your film career?
My family and friends

What are the reactions to your film? (opinion of spectators, film critics, friends and family)
With multiple International Film Festival awards for Global Best Screenplay, 3 times Best Young Actress, Best Young Actor, Best Film in Disability, Best Short Film, Best Costume, Best Historical Film, the response has been overwhelming to say the least from so many people.

What are your future plans in filmmaking carriere?
I am in the middle of writing a sequel to 'Loki and Me' but a 40-50 minute version as well as producing multiple short films that involve some actors and film crew with disabilities.

To direct/produce an award winning feature film that have some cast and/or crew that has a disability.