ROOTS
Our Team
Growing up as an adopted Ethiopian child in an Australian household, I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of identity and what truly makes a family. My mum. is a social worker and my relationship with my brother has always been a mix of love, rivalry, and the kind of unspoken connection that’s hard to put into words. That dynamic inspired ROOTS.
I wanted to craft a story that answers the question, “What’s it like being adopted?” - which is the question I’ve been asked most in life, but always struggled to answer. It's a deeply personal story, but one I hope resonates universally.
Details aside, this is a story about a boy who wants to become closer to his family, and by making a difficult yet mature sacrifice he achieves that connection, just in a way he didn't expect.
Family is more than DNA.
- Abel Connors
Abel Connors
Director / Writer
Abel Connors is an emerging Ethiopian-Australian filmmaker whose work combines heartfelt narratives with sharp comedic undertones. Based in Melbourne, Australia, where he studies Film & TV at Swinburne University of Technology, and currently interning in New York at Cadence Films, Abel continues to develop his craft, blending cultural influences with a unique voice that resonates across audiences. Drawing inspiration from the writer’s experience as an adoptee and his love of coming-of-age dramedies, “Roots” explores themes of family and identity through a lens that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. The characters presented in the story are derived from Abel’s real-life adoptive family (excluding his sister, who he didn’t include as “she is boring”).
Felix Siro
Producer
Felix Siro is a writer, director, producer and sound designer/recordist from Melbourne, currently studying Film & TV at Swinburne University of Technology. Having grown up in North Melbourne where art and culture are constantly meeting and evolving, Felix has immersed himself in short narrative films, music videos and television commercials.
Hard to Swallow, a short film he recently sound recorded and designed, won two awards at the Melbourne International CINEVERSE Film Festival.
Flynn Davies
Writer / Producer
Flynn Davies is an Australian filmmaker based in Naarm/Melbourne, where he studies Film & TV at Swinburne University of Technology. With experience across short narrative films, documentaries, and music videos, Flynn is driven by stories about identity, family and the myriad of ways these bonds are formed, nurtured, and challenged. His work is often shaped by his own experiences in a large, close-knit family and explores the complexities that shape who we are and how we connect with each other.
His latest narrative short, Simon, shares thematic parallels with “Roots”, both delving into family dynamics and personal identity in suburban Melbourne. With “Roots”, Flynn is excited to expand on these ideas on a larger canvas, continuing to write stories focused on relationships in both intimate and broader societal contexts.
Liam Brown
Sound Designer and Recordist
Liam Brown is a Geelong-based sound designer passionate about creating immersive audiovisual experiences. With a strong background in both visual storytelling and sound design, Liam brings a unique, multidisciplinary approach to every project. With an eye for detail and an ear for innovation, Liam is committed to pushing the boundaries of sound and image to deliver unforgettable cinematic experiences.
Liam’s most recent work as a Sound Recordist & Designer was for the short drama film, “Gone By Sundown”. Set in a rural Australian landscape, Liam manipulated real-life recordings of Australian Nature to create feelings of tension and calmness. He looks forward to utilising similar techniques for “Roots”.
Angus Sheedy
Director of Photography
Angus Sheedy is an Australian cinematographer based in Melbourne, where he studies Film & TV at Swinburne University of Technology. He is currently interning in New York at Jean Doumanian Productions.
His latest narrative short, Something To Do, had its Victorian premiere at the Setting Sun Film Festival and has since screened at Athens International Monthly Art Film Festival, being awarded the prize for “Best Debut”.
Inspired by dynamic cinematographers like Christopher Doyle and Emmanuel Lubezki, Angus brings a fresh, innovative perspective to every project. Whether crafting cinematic compositions or collaborating with directors to bring visions to life, they are committed to translating stories into striking, emotive visuals. Known for their adaptability and creative flair, Angus thrives in high-pressure environments, delivering compelling imagery that resonates with audiences.
Jamie Guillard
Production Designer
Jamie Guillard is an Australian filmmaker who likes exploring mixed forms of media through film and animation. During his studies at Swinburne, he has operated in various roles such as Producer, Gaffer, Editor, and Cinematographer. This year, he will take up a co-production design role for the first time. He is excited to utilise and apply his experiences from other roles to create the world of “Roots”.
Jamie has had an especially close working relationship with Frank Morrison, fellow Co-Production Designer, for numerous years. This will be their 6th short film production together.
Frank Morrison
Production Designer
Frank Morrison is an Australian filmmaker with experience in a range of roles over many projects. Previous work in the art department includes production designer credits on student and independent short films and music videos, along with art assistant roles for serialised web series.
As co-production designer, Frank is excited to help develop the film’s early 2000s setting and faithfully portray the familial themes of the script within the main location of the family home. The comedic elements are particularly appealing aspect for this role, allowing for the opportunity to create a satirical and slightly absurdist look for the clinic and poster/website designs.
Oscar Freeman
Editor
Oscar Freeman is an Australian filmmaker and Editor based in Melbourne. Growing up in the lively inner-city arts scene, he developed a love for film and a natural talent for visual storytelling.
As the Editor of “Roots”, his writing background helps him shape every frame to hit the right emotional notes. He’s had a wide range of pursuits within film. Taking on roles like Head Production Designer, First AC and Producer, building a diverse portfolio that includes short films, documentaries, brand campaigns, short-form videos, stage visuals, etc. He has an eye for detail, enjoys problem-solving on projects, and always manages to find creativity in adaptability.