Today, Screen Producers Australia (SPA) is delighted to announce that acclaimed American producer and line producer Eric McLeod will speak in-person at SCREEN FOREVER 39 (Tuesday, 6 May – Thursday, 8 May 2025), taking place on Queensland’s glittering Gold Coast.
With a career spanning nearly four decades, Eric McLeod is one of Hollywood’s hardest-working producers, with a formidable track record of blockbuster hits and international productions. From cult classics to billion-dollar franchises, his name has become synonymous with ambitious, high-stakes filmmaking on a global scale.
Among his most notable credits are Mr and Mrs Smith, Tropic Thunder, the Austin Powers series, Wag the Dog, Enemy of the State, and two instalments of Pirates of the Caribbean — Dead Man’s Chest and At World’s End.
Eric has also served as a line producer on five films in the Godzilla and King Kong franchises, further cementing his reputation as a powerhouse in large-scale cinematic production.
Eric's extensive expertise in international shoots has seen him work across 26 countries, bringing complex productions to life across various cultural and logistical landscapes.
Australia holds a special place in his heart. Having produced four major films on Australian soil, he regards the country as his "second home".
Eric will headline a special keynote session Hollywood to the Gold Coast: Producing Blockbusters with Eric McLeod, presented in partnership with the City of Gold Coast. Moderated by Gina Black, Screen Industry Advisor at the Gold Coast Film Commission, the session offers an exclusive opportunity to hear directly from him as he reflects on his extraordinary career and the production lessons he learned.
“I am proud to attend SCREEN FOREVER 39. Over the past ten years, I have line-produced five films that were either fully or partially shot in Australia. My experiences have reinforced my belief that Australia is one of the best locations for film production. The stunning landscapes, skilled cast and crew, and high-quality facilities make it an unbeatable choice for filmmakers," said Eric.
From the high-seas adventures of Pirates of the Caribbean to the action-packed Mr. & Mrs. Smith and the satirical brilliance of Tropic Thunder, Eric has mastered the art of producing large-scale feature films.
With deep connections to the Australian industry — and a strong history of working on the Gold Coast — Eric will discuss the evolving landscape of international production, the logistics behind mounting major studio films, and how Australian talent and locations continue to shape global storytelling.
This not-to-be-missed session is essential for producers eager to navigate international collaborations, big-budget logistics, and the ever-changing dynamics of film production in a globalised industry.
SCREEN FOREVER 39 promises to deliver unparalleled access to international and local screen leaders, and Eric’s appearance is set to be a highlight of this year’s program.
Delegates are encouraged to register now to secure their spot to avoid missing out on what is regularly a sold-out event.
