Thomas Ryan

I’m Thomas Ryan, a writer, director and videographer of short films and documentaries, currently living in my hometown of Muswellbrook, NSW. I have a passion for filmmaking and storytelling with a particular focus on community, and the way in which individuals are influenced by both history, and those around them.

I aim to escalate the humour and absurdity found within even the smallest exchanges or situations, believing that the best stories come from the smallest, most universal things told in unique, creative ways. I am particularly motivated by surrealist storytelling practices and ambiguity, as I believe that the purpose of telling stories is to allow the audience to take away the messages that are most personally valuable to them.

Through my degree in Media Productions at the University of Newcastle and beyond, I've had many opportunities to create a wide variety of films, documentaries, music videos and ads, as well as pick up a handful of awards and nominations. I have already begun to continue this beyond my degree, and I hope to continue exploring my skillset as much as I can.

​

In 2024, I was lucky enough to join the NSW Horizons regional mentorship program, which has led me to take a more focused interest in regional filmmaking, despite the additional challenges it may pose. I look forward to finding new ways to create the types of heightened yet grounded stories and characters that I enjoy putting forward.