Tassie Film Talent on Show
by Hobart Magazine
Flickerfest, Australia’s premier short film festival, marks its 33rd year in 2024 with screenings at Hobart’s Peacock Theatre, Salamanca Arts Centre on 12 and 13 July at 8pm. The event showcases handpicked highlights from over 3,000 submissions. Kartanya Maynard is the star of Lean In, which is featured in the festival. We caught up with Kartanya ahead of the show.
Tell us a bit about your short film, Lean In. Lean In is about Rach, a moral-abiding feminist comedian who ends her self-funded tour being rejected by the agent she’s been holding out for. Her brother Benny invites her to join in on his work Christmas drinks, where she is continually pushed to see whether she has what it takes to survive in these finance bros’ world.
What was most challenging about this role? The most challenging part of the role was keeping Rach separate from me. I constantly felt really confronted by the dialogue and the idea of questioning one’s morals as Rach does throughout the film. I had a lot of moments where my mind knew I was acting but my body didn’t, so that was really hard to keep under control.
How do you identify with your character, Rach? I really identify with the hunger Rach has to be somebody, to get to the top of her chosen field and achieve her dream. I am an overachiever at my core and so is Rach.
You’re a rising star, recently starring in Deadloch and Heartbreak High. How have things changed by being on screen more regularly? Is there Deadloch 2 in the works???? During my short time in this industry, I have been able to be a part of so many amazing productions, I feel proud being able to work with the creatives that I do. Thankfully for me not a whole lot has changed, I’m still a crocheting homebody, my friends and family treat me the same, the only difference now is that sometimes I get stopped for a photo with some fans. I really hope Deadloch gets a season 2! Fingers crossed peeps!
What do you like to do when you’re back in Nipaluna / Hobart? When I’m back in Nipaluna I like to spend much-needed time at home since I travel so much now, and spend as much time as I can with the people that I love. My time when I’m home is where I can really focus on working on myself and pursuing my hobbies. I’m a little granny doing arts and crafts at heart.
What’s coming up for you? I’m currently performing in Sydney Theatre Company’s STOLEN by Jane Harrison. It’s honestly one of the most important plays ever written in Australia and a true must see for everyone. I’m very proud to be a part of it. As for future projects I have to stay tight lipped for now, but you’ll hear all about it soon enough!
For tickets and more information, visit flickerfest.com.au/tour/hobart.