DaVinci Resolve timeline of ‘Sensory Overload’.

Most of the time, when I shoot or edit something that I haven’t produced myself, the project is released into the world, and I often don’t know where it goes or how well it is received. ‘Sensory Overload’ was one of those projects. My name was suggested to edit this short documentary because the initial editor had overlapping schedules and couldn’t do it. So, I eagerly stepped in.

‘Sensory Overload’ explores the lives of Rylea, Scott, and Stephanie as they grapple with sensory overload. This poignant documentary reveals their daily struggles, coping mechanisms, and the transformative power of the arts in managing overwhelming sensations. It’s an intimate journey that advocates for inclusive environments and heightened empathy towards those with sensory challenges.

What I love about editing documentaries is the journey. Not knowing where the edit will land, there's always a mix of trepidation and excitement at the start. Throughout the edit, there's a lot of experimenting involved, or what I like to call “playing.” One of the challenges of this edit was weaving each person's experiences together to form a cohesive piece. To be honest, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it turned out.

The best part of the project was getting the chance to talk to the students of Bus Stop Films who were involved in the project. Explaining every little decision and breaking down my process was not only educational for them but also incredibly fun for me. Working with director Rebecca Kirwan was an absolute pleasure. She gave me the freedom to experiment and try new things, which is a blessing for any creative.

Winning the Best Editing Award for ‘Sensory Overload’ at the inaugural Golden Bus Awards was a gratifying acknowledgment of the hard work that went into this project. It’s a reminder of the impact that thoughtful storytelling and collaborative effort can have. This experience will always hold a special place in my heart, both for the professional recognition and the personal connections made along the way.

The film is currently doing the festival circuit.

Oh, and just a side note ;) Congrats to the entire team because it also won Best Film!

Cast
Rylea Conlon
Scott Tunbridge
Stephanie Marlborough

Crew
Director – Rebecca Kirwan
Writer – Rebecca Kirwan in collaboration with Bus Stop Films students
Producer – Dianna La Grassa
Cinematographer – Simon Koloadin
Production Design – Bianca Chong
Editor – Muy Lang Linda Ung
Sound Design – Lauren Ligovich, Nigel Christensen ASSG
Composer – Analia Lentini

2023 | Australia | 14 mins | 2.39:1
Genre: Documentary
Themes: Disability | Mental Health
Disability represented on screen: Neurodiverse
Language: English, with Closed Captioning available

Jury:

Sasha Close, President Natalie Miller Fellowship
Jessica Giacco, Screen Producers Australia
Robbie Miles, Head of Industry & Alumni Engagement AFTRS
Anthony Kierann, Creative Industries Executive
Courtney Gibson, Managing Director C-type
Elliot Clifford, Founder/Co-Producer Emerge
Nathan Borg, Deaf Advocate, Actor, and Producer

Winners:

Best Editing: Linda Ung for ‘Sensory Overload’
Best Screenplay: ‘Middle Management’
Best Performance: Lara Heath for ‘I've Got You’
Jury's Choice: ‘Fighting Feelings’
Best Film: ‘Sensory Overload’
Lifetime Achievement Award: Gerard O'Dwyer

The event, held on May 29th at Hoyts Entertainment Quarter, was a star-studded evening hosted by Elle Dawe, with awards presented by Richard Wilkins. It showcased a number of phenomenal films created in 2023 by Bus Stop Films classes across Australia.