Actress Tessa Rose to feature in Darwin International Film Festival

After backflipping on her retirement plans, a local actor is set to feature at the Darwin International Film Festival.

Local Tessa Rose will be front and centre at this year’s Darwin International Film Festival. Picture: Glenn Campbell.

A Darwin-based actor’s decision to backflip on retirement has been rewarded, with the local set to feature at this year’s Darwin International Film Festival.

Indigenous woman Tessa Rose was on the cusp of ending her 30-year acting career when she was offered a big role in horror film The Moogai.

Not only was it the first time Ms Rose did not need to audition for the role, it was also the highest credit in a cast and crew list she had ever achieved – number three, only behind stars Shari Sebbens and Meyne Wyatt.

Ms Rose featured in horror film The Moogai. Photo: Causeway Films

Now, in 2024, Ms Rose’s movie career has elevated ever further, after she was cast in the lead role as Bev in short film Bear.

In Bear, Bev has a difficult decision to make: her grandkids are coming to visit and her daughter has given her an ultimatum – she must put her dog Bear down before they arrive.

However, while waiting in the vet clinic, a chance meeting with another woman forces her to question her decision.

Written and directed by Rebecca Parker, Bear will world premiere at the Darwin International Film Festival in the SPARK Short Film Showcase on Friday September 20, while The Moogai screens the night before on Thursday September 19.

Perhaps better known as an acclaimed stage actor and dancer, Ms Rose’s latest achievements follows a decorated career, having danced in Yothu Yindi’s music video for their song “Treaty” and played a role in iconic Territory film Top End Wedding.

To watch The Moogai and Bear on September 19 and 20, visit the Deckchair Cinema website.