Michael James Rowland, an accomplished Australian writer and director, achieved widespread recognition with the release of his 2007 feature film, 'Lucky Miles', which garnered four stars and garnered attention from esteemed film critic Paul Byrnes, who likened it to 'the wizard of Oz without Dorothy or the dog', a most unexpected and intriguing comparison.
This unconventional comedy, 'Lucky Miles', managed to re-frame the complex and often sensitive topic of illegal immigration, ultimately winning the prestigious Audience Award at the Sydney Film Festival, as well as the Abu Dhabi Black Pearl, a significant 100,000-dollar prize for Best Director, and receiving praise from notable figures such as Bob Ellis and Andrew Bolt.
Michael, a multifaceted individual, hailing from the vibrant city of Adelaide, has led a life of remarkable occupational diversity. Prior to his current endeavors, he has had the opportunity to explore various roles, including that of a community theatre director, where he honed his skills in guiding and nurturing the creative endeavors of others.
In addition to his experience in the world of community theatre, Michael has also had a stint as a factory worker, where he gained valuable insights into the world of industry and manufacturing. His subsequent role as a designer for the esteemed Adelaide Festival allowed him to tap into his creative side, bringing his unique perspective to the world of festival planning and execution.
Following his work on the Adelaide Festival, Michael ventured into the realm of graphic novel publishing, where he had the opportunity to bring his passion for storytelling to life through the medium of sequential art. His most recent foray into the world of screenwriting has yielded a plethora of successful projects, including 'The Last Confession of Alexander Pearce', 'My Place', 'Spirited', 'Dance Academy', and 'Tangle', each one a testament to his versatility and dedication to his craft.
Michael's intellectual pursuits and hobbies are quite diverse and multifaceted, with a particular fascination for alternative histories, which often serve as a thought-provoking backdrop for exploring the complexities of human existence.
In addition to this, Michael has a deep appreciation for the works of 19th century moral philosophers, whose writings on ethics and morality continue to resonate with him to this day.
Furthermore, Michael's interests extend to the realm of ornithology, with a special fondness for Australian native birds, whose unique characteristics and adaptations never cease to amaze him.
Geographically, Michael's life is characterized by a sense of restlessness and a desire for exploration, as he frequently travels between the major cities of Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide, as well as the picturesque island of Tasmania, where he has a profound connection to the land.
In fact, Michael owns a significant tract of land in Tasmania, comprising a staggering 15 acres, which he is currently transforming into a serene and idyllic retreat by building a cozy forest cabin.
