Maddison Maurdev is an Australian filmmaker based in Melbourne. In 2017, She made her directorial debut with “Calomnier”, a silent short film produced for the International Youth Silent Film Festival. The film was screened both locally at Melbourne’s Astor Theatre, and internationally at the historic Hollywood Theatre in Portland.

During her time at Deakin University, completing a Bachelor of Film, Television and Animation (Honours) degree, she wrote and directed three projects:

“Compact” (2022), “Remnants” (2024) and “Stereo” (2024). 

Post-university, Maddison has begun producing her own work under the name, Donah, continuing to propel Australian-centric stories forward.

The term, ‘donah’ is a lesser known term for female larrikins. To be a donah is to be raucous and part of urban society, out on the street and in the venues. The initiative’s first production, “Grassroots” has opted out of the film festival circuit in favour of a daily release strategy. Straight to the consumer in the hopes of inciting interest around the country’s rich filmmaking history.

With a wide array of influences, from Jacques Demy to Chantal Akerman, Maddison is interested in further experimenting with music and film to create uniquely Australian films.

contact: whatisadonah@gmail.com