After the Smoke

As if signalling a dark omen, black smoke rises skyward from the huge chimney. In the background, muted sounds can be heard. What is it that makes the people stay in such a desolate place? As the locals gather at the rodeo arena in a barren outback mining town, a young man watches the rider as he battles with a rearing horse, one hand tightly holding the reins. It’s a bizarre dance, playing with danger, living for that momentary rush of adrenalin.
by Nick Waterman
with Sam Reid
Australia 2017 English 9’ Black/White

With

  • Sam Reid

Crew

Director Nick Waterman
Screenplay Nick Waterman, Bertie Blackman
Cinematography Velinda Wardell
Editing Nick Waterman
Music Bertie Blackman
Sound Design Sasha Zastavnikovic
Producers Melissa Beauford, Nick Waterman
Executive Producers John Winter, Bertie Blackman

Produced by

Authentic Pie

Nick Waterman

An Australian director and editor, he studied film at the University of Technology in Sydney. His debut short film, From Here, premiered at the Palm Springs International ShortFest while Vote Yes opened the programme at the 2014 Flickerfest International Film Festival; After the Smoke screened in the 2017 Berlinale Generation. Working in genres ranging from drama to music videos, his films explore different aspects of Australian identity through poetic storytelling and strong graphic imagery. He is currently writing his debut feature film.

Filmography (short films)

2012 From Here · From Here 2014 Vote Yes · Vote Yes 2017 After the Smoke · After the Smoke 2020 The Flame

Bio- & filmography as of Berlinale 2020