We Used To Own Houses (Short Film) — David Robinson-Smith

We Used To Own Houses (2023)

Short Film, 6mins

Starring Anthony Phelan and Thom Green
Poem by Alasdair Dunn, taken from Hostile Architecture by Ashenspire

Director & Writer David Robinson-Smith
Production Company Good Oil Films
Executive Producers Sam Long and Juliet Bishop
Creative Director Giulietta Amato
Producer Chloe Brennan
Head of Emerging Talent Nick Payne
Cinematographer Jaclyn Paterson
Production Designer Calum Wilson Austin
Costume Laura Bracken
Editor James Taylor
Sound Design Wade Keighran
Score Wolf & Cub

Synopsis
Thom, a determined renter, confronts Ben, a burdened landlord. Within the confines of their meeting, cryptic verses echo, unraveling the hidden truths of a broken system. As walls crumble and secrets are laid bare, a haunting truth emerges, shattering the illusions of home. In this unsettling invasion, power shifts and the consequences of greed unfold.

Awards & Nominations
CICLOPE Asia 2024, Winner Best Short Film
Australian Director’s Guild Awards 2023, Nomination - Best Direction in a Short Film
St Kilda Film Festival 2024, Nominated - Best Short Film
St Kilda Film Festival 2024, Nominated - Best Innovation
St Kilda Film Festival 2024, Nominated - Best Original Score

Festivals
Melbourne International Film Festival, 2023 - Accelerator Lab
SXSW Sydney, 2023
St Kilda Film Festival, 2024