Directing is a constant learning process and no one knows that better than Peter Andrikidis. The multi-award-winning director has had an illustrious career spanning four decades, telling some of Australia’s most ground-breaking stories such as Wildside, Underbelly and East West 101.
We wanted to know what inspired Peter’s own journey before he delivers The Director’s Journey with Peter Andrikidis short course for AFTRS. From his favourite film books and most rewatched movies, to the piece of advice he’s always asked for, find out a little more about one of Australia’s most prolific directors.
What is your most rewatched movie or TV series and what about it keeps drawing you back?
“All the President’s Men – a true story with a great script, gifted direction, cinematography by the genius Gordon Wills and two brilliant central performances by Robert Redford and Dustin Hoffman. Cinematic filmmaking at it’s very best.
The West Wing (TV series) – the gifted writing of Aaron Sorkin, rhythmic overlapping dialogue with wit and intelligence, and a stunning acting ensemble for seven seasons. Free to air television at it’s very best.”
What’s the one film book that you couldn’t do without?
“I have four books and they are all about Screen Acting: Sanford Meisner on Acting by Sanford Meisner and Dennis Longwell; Directing Actors and The Film Director’s Intuition by Judith Weston; and The Power of the Actor by Ivana Chubbuck.”
What are some of your fondest memories of studying at AFTRS?
“Having the freedom to work in every department of filmmaking and learning to respect the creatives on your crew. The collaborative nature of filmmaking is essential to delivering outstanding work. I met director of photography Joe Pickering at AFTRS four decades ago and we have collaborated and won many awards and accolades since then.”
What is exciting you about the industry right now?
“The industry is finally strongly including diversity – cultural backgrounds, ages, genders – something I have tried to encourage throughout my career.”
What is the piece of advice you get asked for the most?
“How do I achieve such naturalist (truthful) performances. I will show you how during this course.”
What is one thing students can expect to take away from The Director’s Journey course?
“I have had a four-decade career and will be revealing what I have learnt so others can gain from my wealth of experience. Directing is a constant learning process and you gain more as you age, life experience is your guide. I want to help the next directors to be high achievers and have no fear.”
Peter will be sharing his experience and insights in our upcoming short course The Director’s Journey with Peter Andrikidis. Learn from Peter directly over this eight-week online course, where you will gain practical insider knowledge into the director’s role, including screenplay structure, scene analysis and effective collaboration, and how to build a sustainable career.
