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Creator.Storyteller.Entrepreneur.

Bringing stories to life—on screen, on the page, and through new ventures.

James Saunders in a wide-brimmed hat in the outback at sunset

One canvas.
Many hats.

Storytelling isn't just what I do—it's how I make sense of the world. Whether I'm stepping in front of a camera, directing behind it, penning my next book, or building a new business from the ground up, the core mission remains the same: to create work that connects, moves, and inspires.

Narrative on Screen

Filmmaker & Actor

Bringing compelling characters and striking visual narratives to life. From script development and directing on set to performance in front of the lens, I thrive where imagination meets cinematic craft.

Words with Impact

Author & Writer

Crafting narratives that resonate long after the page is turned. Exploring human experience, deep history, and powerful shared connections through books and editorial writing.

Creative Execution & Ventures

Entrepreneur & Venture Creator

Turning bold ideas into sustainable businesses. Building brands, launching mission-driven projects, and leading ventures at the intersection of creativity, narrative, and strategic execution.

Selected work

Work across screen, page and venture.

Film & Acting

Act & Produce Reel

A curated showcase of acting performances and film producing projects.

Yurlu Country

2025 · Co-Producer · Feature documentary

A vivid ode to Country and an intimate portrait of an Aboriginal elder's final year as he strives to preserve his culture and heal his homeland, scarred by the largest contaminated site in the Southern Hemisphere.

“One of the most compelling stories in Australia at the moment” — Peter Garrett, Midnight Oil

Brolga

2019 · Actor · Short film

In a ravaged and lawless future-Australia, an isolated hermit is forced to offer sanctuary to a young girl, as she tries to escape a pair of murderous scavengers.

“Atmospheric, tense, and strikingly shot, Brolga transforms the sun-baked Australian wasteland into a canvas of survival, hope, and mythic beauty.”

IMDb →

Clan

2014 · Talent · Short documentary

Overcoming childhood rejection and family fallout, an Aboriginal man finds self-acceptance and a true sense of belonging after joining a rugby club.

“An intensely moving and triumphant celebration of identity, Clan fearlessly tackles the weight of self-doubt and social rejection, delivering a profoundly inspiring story about the healing power of community.”

IMDb →

Books

Fighting for Country

The extraordinary life of Reg Saunders, Australia's first Indigenous commissioned officer—a true leader who served with daring and distinction across two world wars.

Explore the book →
“This is a penetrating work, full of insight, empathy and intelligence. As a first book, it promises much to come from the author. It brings a fine man to life and demonstrates that fighting for country is something that we all must play a part in.

I leave the last words to James, as Reg and his brother Harry have a rare meeting during the war on a short leave to that holiest of cities, Jerusalem:

Back home, sacredness didn’t sit in stone; it moved through water, smoke, ash and story. Different continent, different songlines, but the same deep pulse.”p92
Norrie Sanders

From the archive

From the launch

On radio · ABC Speaking Out

Fighting For Country: The remarkable story of Reg Saunders

Larissa Behrendt speaks with James Saunders about the book and the story of his relative, Gunditjmara man Reg Saunders — Australia's first Indigenous commissioned officer.

Listen on ABC listen →

Presenter — Larissa BehrendtDuration — 53 minutesBroadcast — 25 September 2026Produced by Jai McAllister & Jenaya Gibbs-Muir

Ventures

Brands and businesses built
from the ground up.

Barragi Mawang

A purpose-driven digital marketing and brand strategy agency that empowers businesses to stand out through innovative design, multichannel marketing, and transformative customer experiences.

Visit site →

Mobstock

A high-quality stock image library showcasing First Nations people thriving, leading, and innovating in everyday professional spaces.

Visit site →

First Nations Lorikeets Rugby Club

A culturally safe, inclusive rugby club and community movement for LGBTQIA+ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Visit site →

Behind the scenes

On set, on the road,
in the studio.

A glimpse behind the lens and into the process.

Contact & Connect

Let's build something great together.

Interested in collaborating on a film, discussing a book or script, booking an appearance, or exploring a new venture? Send a message below.

jamesgrantsaunders@gmail.com