Setting the Scene

Editorial

Setting the Scene: Film Design from Metropolis to Australia is a behind-the-scenes examination of filmmaking through production design. Devoted to the work of film production designers, set designers and film architects, the exhibition pays tribute to the artists behind seminal works of film covering almost a century.

ACMI has worked closely with Australia’s Art Director Karen Murphy to curate an exclusive showcase of the work of double Academy Award® winning Australian production designer, Catherine Martin, for the exhibition. It will feature design concepts, sketches, models and research material as well as the living room set of the Faraway Downs homestead featured in the film, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to have an immersive experience by stepping ‘on set’ of Australia.

Featuring more than 300 original sketches, storyboards and models behind some of the most recognisable cinematic worlds, the exhibition explores how spaces are constructed, how production design influences the narrative, mood and atmosphere of a film.

Other films featured in the exhibition include The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1919), Mon Oncle (1958), Dr. Strangelove (1964), The Apartment (1960), A Clockwork Orange (1971), Cabaret (1972), Alien (1979), The Shining (1980), Dark City (1998), The Matrix trilogy (1999–2003), The Cat in the Hat (2003), Ned Kelly (2003), Dogville (2003), The Bourne Supremacy (2004), The Terminal (2004), The Proposition (2005), The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (2008) and Speed Racer (2008).

Tim Hunter, Citysearch

Read our review of Australia here.