FILMMAKING: Make a Short Film (Group 2)

Age group: Juniors (Grades 3-6)
Class Size: 12 max

Can one object inspire an entire film?

In this exciting two-day filmmaking workshop, young creatives will work together to develop, shoot and perform in an original short film inspired by the 2026 Tropfest Jr Signature Item: Map. Guided by filmmaker Aarushi Chowdhury, students will explore storytelling, performance, camera operation and creative problem-solving as they bring their ideas to life on screen.

Designed especially for juniors, this hands-on workshop encourages imagination, teamwork and confidence in a fun, supportive studio environment — all while working towards creating a short film that may be submitted to Trop Jr.

Teacher: Aarushi Chowdhury

Aarushi Chowdhury is a filmmaker whose work spans short film, commercial directing and television development. Her award-winning short film Clown, which she co-wrote and directed, has screened at major festivals including SXSW Sydney, Melbourne International Film Festival, the Australian Women in Film Festival, and Cannes Indies Shorts Awards. In 2024, Aarushi was named “One to Watch” at the Australian Women in Film Festival, recognising her as one of Australia’s most exciting rising voices in filmmaking.

Alongside her narrative work, Aarushi has directed commercial campaigns for brands including Intrepid Travel (MIFF collaboration), Snooze, and KGM SsangYong, as well as creative projects for the Melbourne Women in Film Festival in partnership with ACMI. She has finished directing and co-writing a new short film, Phorid, funded by Creative Victoria.  

Aarushi began her career working across all departments of the screen industry including Art Directing, camera and lighting, editing and assistant directing. Aarushi’s broader screen experience also includes working as a research writer in television, as well as roles in the casting departments for the international production Shantaram. She has also directed branded content and corporate storytelling for organisations including AAMI Insurance & M&Ms.  

Dates: Thursday 9 & Friday 10 July
Time: 10am-2pm both days
Age group: Juniors (Grades 3-6)
Cost: $250 (incl. GST)
Class size: 12 max
What to bring: Please bring some lunch, snacks and a water bottle.