Photoplay Photography photographer and director, Alexandrena Parker’s short film, Screentime, exploring the impact of digital devices on childhood, is about to make its debut at the St Kilda Film Festival as part of the Brave New Worlds session.
The film, a social commentary wrapped in Parker’s signature – a distinctive and absorbing narrative – is enhanced by the powers of Parker’s unique ability to think deeply and artistically about social impact topics and her ability to transform ordinary moments into extraordinary visual narratives. The film’s direction feels both nostalgic and urgent, grounded in human emotion and visual storytelling that lingers.
In Screentime, Parker underlines the quietly urgent issue of digital dependency in childhood – crafting a poetic, thought-provoking take on how imagination is eroded by constant stimulation.
“I made this film because I believe boredom is essential. In the silence of it, imagination is born,” Parker stated. “Screentime explores what we lose when we trade creative play for glowing screens. It’s a topic close to my heart as a parent and artist.”
Behind Screentime are Parker’s signature artistic assets that are apparent in her vast portfolio of commercial photography – her warm, cinematic visuals and emotionally resonant storytelling; her skill with light and performance, and her remarkable attention to details that resonate with audiences.
Following its premiere, Screentime has been selected by several Oscar-qualifying film festivals across Australia, the US, and Europe, a rare achievement for a debut work and a testament to its creative resonance.
Watch the film in Melbourne at the St Kilda Film Festival’s Brave New Worlds program, Friday 7 June 4:30pm – 6:00pm Astor Theatre, Melbourne, alongside some of Australia’s top new filmmakers.
For media enquiries, interviews or screener access, contact Alison Lydiard or 0484 100 414.
