Melbourne-based production company Recliner has announced its latest short film, Agora, a tightly observed dark comedy directed by filmmaker and actor Matt Wallace.
Set around a seemingly ordinary lunch, Agora follows a chance encounter that slowly unravels into an awkward test of social boundaries. When an unexpected third presence enters the scene, the shared space becomes unsettled, exposing the fragile, unspoken rules that govern public behaviour.
Shot in a single, unbroken take, the film builds tension in real time. Rather than offering clear moral conclusions, Agora invites audiences to sit with discomfort and ambiguity as the social dynamics shift.
Director: Matt Wallace
Director Matt Wallace is a Melbourne-based filmmaker known for his interest in observational storytelling and the subtle humour found in everyday interactions. His work often explores how social conventions shape behaviour, particularly in public and semi-public spaces.
Wallace’s recent credits include the co-directed short You, Me and That Chair, which screened at the St Kilda Film Festival and won Best Film at the Australia Indonesia Short Film Festival. He has also written and directed web series such as Chutney and the Screen Australia-funded anthology Hot Bread.
In addition to directing, Wallace is an established actor and is known for working closely with performers to develop nuanced, dynamic performances. He also appears on screen in Agora.
Director’s Statement
Speaking about the film, Wallace said:
“Agora is interested in the unspoken rules that govern public space, and in how tension emerges when those rules start to break down. By working in a single unbroken shot, this film allows these tensions to surface gradually, without settling into fixed moral positions.”
Behind the Scenes
Agora was produced by Lawrence Phelan through Recliner, continuing his work supporting distinctive, director-led Australian short films. Cinematography was led by Ben Bellette, whose restrained visual approach helps sustain the film’s tension across its single, unbroken take.
The film stars Matt Wallace alongside Lucy Elliot in the two central roles, anchoring the story with grounded, naturalistic performances.
Working closely with Wallace, the wider crew brought together sound, lighting, and post-production elements to support the film’s minimalist, real-time structure without drawing attention away from the performances.
Looking Ahead
Currently awaiting its premiere in 2026, Agora is positioned as one of Recliners’ key short-form releases for the coming year. With its minimalist approach, real-time structure, and focus on everyday social friction, the film continues the company’s commitment to distinctive Australian storytelling.
Further festival and screening details are expected to be announced closer to the premiere.
