Australian VFX production studio, Stage23 has strengthened its presence in the UK and European markets, appointing Michelle Martin as the UK-based Executive Consultant, who will be driving international business development.
In this newly created role for Stage23, Martin will develop international creative opportunities and co- production partnerships for the studio in addition to building its presence in the UK and European sector.
Martin joined the Stage23 team in March, with over two decades of specialist experience within VFX, working across senior roles with global studios including Framestore, Milk and Pixomondo. Her seasoned career in VFX production includes contributions to critically acclaimed projects The Crown, Black Mirror, The Witcher, Luther and Lovecraft Country.
“The pace of change in our sector is frenetic with increasing competition and technology disruptions, but at its core is the primacy of creative vision and innovation which Stage23 have forged impressively. I am delighted to join this talented artist-led, trailblazing team and assist in expanding the studio’s global footprint and drive new creative opportunities and partnerships.”
Michelle Martin, Head of International Business Development at Stage23
The appointment follows the completion of VFX work on Stage23’s first UK/Australian co-production project for the feature film Fing! The Stan commissioned production, which was filmed in both Australia and the UK, required VFX/post-production in both Stage23’s London and Sydney studio facilities. Fing! is an official Australian-UK co-production from London-based King Bert Productions and Australia’s Story Bridge Films.
The feature was showcased at this year’s Sundance Film Festival and Angel Studios recently announced that it will have a wide US. theatrical release in early 2027. AGC Studios co-financed the production and are handling worldwide sale with Transmission Films releasing it theatrically in Australia and New Zealand. Fing! will debut in Australia as a Stan Original and co-financier Sky will premiere the film in the UK as a Sky Original on Sky Cinema.
Martin will be taking part in the Ausfilm/Screen Australia Partner with Australia initiative in London in June, designed to strengthen creative and commercial partnerships between the Australian and UK screen industries, bolster co-production activity, and showcase content and its creators.
