Mitchell Withers is a documentary director based in Melbourne/Naarm. His work is motivated by a desire to understand the nuances of lived experience and how these intersect with notions of place and identity.
Mitchell thrives on the natural tension inherent in discovering, developing, and shaping story arcs whilst remaining grounded in the authentic voice of contributors. Forever critical of the ethics in his practice, he seeks to bring intimacy to the screen and foster new connections.
His films have been featured at festivals including St Kilda Film Festival, Revelation Film Festival, and Transitions Film Festival. His 2023 film, Every Line, was a finalist for Best Short at both the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival and the Sydney Short Film Festival.
Mitchell’s foundation in storytelling began with a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Curtin University in 2013. It was there that his passion for poetic but unpretentious prose was born, a love he continues to foster through the characters in his films.
Alongside his independent practice, Mitchell operates Of Place Films, where he provides documentary storytelling services for businesses and not-for-profit clients.