E02: Gabriel Carrubba - Writing and Directing Sunflower, and All the Jobs in Between: The Reality of Being a Director in Australia

Today we’re joined by Melbourne-based writer, director and producer Gabriel Carrubba, who discusses his debut feature film Sunflower, that was officially selected for MIFF, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane and Cinefest, and also had a buyers screening at Cannes.Gabriel talks about his transition from acting to directing, the many industry jobs he’s worked between projects, and the writing, casting, budget and challenges behind Sunflower. We also cover the film’s festival journey, producing Zane Borg’s upcoming feature River, Screen Australia development funding, and much more.Note: This episode was recorded in July 2025, and dates mentioned may be outdated. All future episodes were recorded in 2026.Key Topics:​Transition from acting to directing​Working as a lecturer​Short films before making a feature​Jobs after directing Sunflower - Time Addicts, Late Night with the Devil​Writing Sunflower​Casting Sunflower - how the leads landed their roles​Budget for Sunflower - making a feature film under $20k​Sunflower festival strategy - the reality of getting into Australian film festivals ​Going to Cannes - buyers screening experience​Producing Zane Borg’s River​Screen Australia development fundingSunflower is available to watch on SBS on Demand (in Australia): Follow the podcast on instagram: ⁠@teatimefilmpodcast⁠ Follow Tea on instagram: ⁠@teavandeburgt⁠ Follow Gabriel on instagram: @gabrielcarrubba_To leave the podcast feedback ⁠follow this link