Annabel Maclean, a multifaceted Australian creative force, has made a significant impact in the world of screenwriting, filmmaking, and acting. Her impressive body of work consistently explores intricate and thought-provoking themes, including the intricacies of female identity, the human struggle for survival, the complexities of intergenerational relationships, and the delicate balance of ethical boundaries.
Through her versatility in tackling a diverse range of genres, such as horror, science fiction, crime, and comedy, Annabel Maclean has demonstrated her remarkable ability to craft captivating narratives that resonate with audiences.
Annabel's early life unfolded in Phalaborwa, a secluded mining town nestled in the heart of South Africa, where she spent her formative years surrounded by the rugged landscape and rustic charm of her hometown. As a teenager, she made the bold decision to relocate to Perth, Western Australia, alongside her three younger sisters, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her life. Since then, Annabel has continued to traverse the globe, settling in various locations that have each left an indelible mark on her life. She has called Geraldton, Sulawesi, Indonesia, Melbourne, Vancouver, Canada, and now Los Angeles, home, accumulating a wealth of experiences and perspectives along the way.
Annabel's impressive body of work as a screenwriter has earned her a plethora of prestigious accolades, with notable achievements including being a Top 10 Finalist in the esteemed Roadmap Writers' Short Film Competition 2024, a Finalist in the MidWest Weird Fest 2024 Short Screenplay Competition, and a Semi-Finalist in the highly competitive 2024 ScreenCraft Short Screenplay Competition, to name a few.
Her short film, MR BIG HANDS, has garnered significant attention and recognition, with a prominent feature on Coverfly's The Red List, a prestigious platform that showcases exceptional screenplays. Notably, MR BIG HANDS has claimed a spot in the top 1% of 4,565 Short Horror projects and the top 1% of 25,442 Short projects on the platform, solidifying Annabel's reputation as a talented and innovative screenwriter.
Annabel's West Australian-set horror feature, Tanami, garnered significant recognition at several prestigious screenplay competitions in 2022, including the Second Rounder distinction at the Austin Film Festival's annual Screenplay Competition, as well as the 2022 ScreenCraft Feature Film Fund Competition, among others.
In 2021, Annabel's creative endeavors continued to flourish, as she was selected for the WIFT Australia x Cinefest Oz Writers Retreat, where she showcased her comedy series, PAIN IN MY ASS. Additionally, she participated in the Australasian Horror Writers' Association mentorship program, which paired her with award-winning screenwriter Shayne Armstrong to further develop her horror feature, Tanami.
Annabel, a talented actress, has undergone extensive training in the art of acting at prestigious institutions, including the renowned Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute in New York, as well as Mcllroy & Associates and Jeb Beach & Associates in Vancouver, Canada, a city known for its thriving film industry.
As a testament to her dedication to her craft, Annabel has recently taken on the lead role in the eight-minute one-shot horror film Bad Vibrations, which premiered at the esteemed Flickerfest 2024, a short film festival recognized by the Academy and BAFTA, and is currently making its way through the international film festival circuit.
Annabel has not only showcased her impressive range in the world of film, but has also made a significant impact in the realm of video games. Her captivating performance as Bobbi, the South African soccer player, in EA Games' FIFA 20 'Volta Football' (2019) has left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
As a talented and versatile actress, Annabel has had the privilege of having her work screened and recognized at numerous prestigious film festivals globally. Some of her most notable achievements include winning the Whistler Film Festival in 2016 for her dark comedy short film 'Bombing', as well as taking home the Best Web Series award at the Leo Awards in 2018 for her work on 'Inconceivable' (2016).
Annabel's impressive resume also includes winning the Best Actress, Best Writing, and Best Film awards at the Blood & Guts 48-Hour Film Festival in 2018 for her film 'Influenced' (2018). Furthermore, her comedy pilot 'Luchador' (2018) took home the Best Comedy Pilot award at the Web Series Festival Utah in the same year.
In addition to her numerous awards and accolades, Annabel's film 'Death of the Party' (2020) received the prestigious Canada Shorts Film Festival Award of Distinction in 2019.
