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On this episode of The Staffa Corner Podcast, a celebrity interview and actor interview explore Hollywood acting, filmmaking, and the global film industry as Nathan Clark Sapsford shares his journey from Bronte, Sydney, to Los Angeles and his transition from Australian MTV VJ to working actor in film and television.
Nathan discusses his first major film production, Here Be Dragons, offering insight into the realities of independent filmmaking and Hollywood production during the global pandemic, including the challenges faced on set and the lessons learned throughout the process in the entertainment industry.
He also reflects on the film’s deeper purpose using storytelling to raise awareness and empathy around an often overlooked moment in history—highlighting how acting and filmmaking can connect audiences through meaningful narrative in today’s film industry.
This conversation offers an engaging look at storytelling, resilience, and the evolving craft of film and television production, making it essential listening for aspiring actors, filmmakers, and creatives.
Tune in to The Staffa Corner Podcast for more celebrity interviews with Hollywood actors, filmmakers, and entertainment industry insiders, featuring deep-dive conversations from across film, TV, and streaming media.
A quick review of Here Be Dragons.
Written & Directed by Alastair Newton Brown
Starring - Nathan Clark Sapsford, Slobodan Bestic, Marija Bergam, Svetislav Goncic, Igor Filipovic, Zoran Pajic
Here Be Dragons marks Alastair Newton Brown's directorial debut. The film opens during a tense prisoner exchange in 1993, introducing key characters like David (Nathan Clark Sapsford) and setting the films gripping tone before leaping 25 years forward.
David, now a war crimes investigator at The Hague, is haunted by his past. He sets out for modern-day Serbia, determined to bring war criminals to justice.
Admittedly, my knowledge of the Bosnian Genocide is limited. Unlike WWII films, which often evoke immediate emotional connections with familiar symbols and patriotic music, it took me some time to become emotionally invested in this story. However, once I began viewing Here Be Dragons as more of a revenge-thriller than a political/war drama, I truly started to appreciate Brown's narrative.
Sapsford beautifully conveys the toll that years at war have taken on his character. However, key character development feels missing throughout the film. I wished the writers had invested more time developing significant characters before the time jump.
While I'm sure the creators of Here Be Dragons would have loved a wide theatrical release in the US, releasing it directly to streaming platforms will likely yield greater success. This format allowed me to pause and look up information, which enhanced my understanding and enjoyment of the film.
Far from perfect, Here Be Dragons is an enjoyable international thriller akin to the Bourne films, albeit without all the hand-to-hand combat. The film does enough to draw you in and make you want to better understand the events surrounding the story.
I, for one, am excited to see Alastair Newton Brown's next film as well as Sapsford's next role.
Here Be Dragons is set to make its North American debut August 16th.
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