In this episode of STAGES, we’re joined by a craftsman whose work has quietly but powerfully contributed to the stories we see on screen — Set Decorator, Martin Williams.

Growing up in Albury, Martin was captivated early by the magic of the cinema. Regular trips to the local picture house sparked a lifelong love of storytelling, and it was Francis Ford Coppola’s The Outsiders that truly set him on his path toward a career in film.

Across more than 35 years in the Australian screen industry, Martin has held a wide variety of roles — from runner and driver to props buyer, carpenter, and ultimately, set decorator. His breadth of experience and deep understanding of production have earned him over 50 screen credits, spanning film and television.

His recent work includes set decoration on the features Beast in Me and The Deb, as well as popular series such as Mother and Son, CAUGHT*, Last King of the Cross, and Colin from Accounts. Earlier in his career, Martin worked on the groundbreaking Matrix trilogy — one of the first major Hollywood blockbusters to be filmed in Sydney — an experience that offered him a front-row seat to a new era of filmmaking in Australia.

Today, we step behind the camera to explore Martin’s remarkable journey, his passion for the craft, and the vital role set decoration plays in bringing stories to life.

The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages).

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