Andrew Leavold, a highly diversified and multifaceted individual, demonstrated a profound fascination with the more sensational and sensationalized aspects of genre cinema throughout his illustrious career.
As the proud owner and manager of Trash Video, the largest cult video rental store in Australia, Leavold spearheaded the establishment and successful operation of this esteemed establishment from 1995 to 2010.
During his tenure at Trash Video, Leavold cultivated a vast and eclectic collection of cult classics, obscure films, and genre-defying cinematic treasures, thereby providing a haven for film enthusiasts and aficionados alike to indulge in their love of the cinematic arts.
As a testament to his unwavering dedication and commitment to his craft, Trash Video under Leavold's guidance flourished, earning the distinction of being the largest cult video rental store in Australia, a title that remains a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of genre cinema.
As a filmmaker, he embarked on a creative journey, making his debut with a no-budget endeavor, "Lesbo A Go Go" (2003),which aimed to recreate the style of Sixties' exploitation features, reminiscent of the works of the renowned filmmaker Doris Wishman.
He subsequently followed up this inaugural venture with another notable project, "Bluebirds Of Peace And Destruction" (2006),a hyper-real reconstruction of a legendary Brisbane vampire slaying, which showcased his ability to craft a captivating narrative that blurred the lines between reality and fiction.
Notable film director and historian Leavold's magnum opus, a feature-length documentary titled The Search For Weng Weng, premiered in 2013, showcasing his meticulous and relentless pursuit of uncovering the enigmatic truth surrounding the diminutive Filipino James Bond. As a result of his tireless efforts, Leavold has earned the distinction of being the preeminent authority on Philippine film history, with his expertise widely recognized and sought after. His impressive credentials have enabled him to share his knowledge at the highest academic levels, instructing students in film studies at prestigious universities across Australia, the United States, Europe, and the Philippines.
Noted academic and upcoming literary sensation, he is poised to make a significant impact in the world of publishing with the forthcoming release of his meticulously researched and meticulously crafted PhD thesis, "Bamboo Gods And Bionic Boys: A History Of Pulp Filmmaking In The Philippines".
Daniel Palisa and Leavold co-directed a feature-length documentary titled The Last Pinoy Action King in the year 2015, which is a tribute to the legendary Filipino action hero Rudy Fernandez who sadly passed away. This documentary was premiered at the prestigious QCinema International Film Festival in October of the same year.
As of April 2019, Leavold is currently engaged in the production of two feature-length documentaries, which are slated for release in the year 2020. The first documentary, titled "The Most Beautiful Creatures On The Skin Of The Earth", marks the third installment in his Filipino trilogy, and delves into the fascinating world of erotic cinema under the Marcos regime.
The second documentary, "Pub", is a historical exploration of the St Kilda music scene, which is told through the life and times of its most infamous and outrageous progeny, Fred Negro. This documentary promises to be a thrilling and enlightening ride, offering a unique glimpse into the vibrant and eclectic world of music in this iconic Melbourne suburb.
As a multifaceted individual with a profound passion for cinematic storytelling, Leavold has navigated a wide-ranging career, effortlessly transitioning between roles as a meticulous researcher, a discerning film festival curator, a talented musician, a charismatic TV presenter, and most notably, an unapologetic and insatiable aficionado of genre cinema. Throughout his illustrious trajectory, Leavold's unparalleled expertise has solidified his reputation as a preeminent authority on the rich and storied history of Philippine film.
