Who is Ben Keller?
I am an award winning Actor and AACTA nominated Producer born in New Zealand, raised in Australia. Recently I was lucky enough to take home the Emerging Talent Award at Tropfest which was a massive moment for me. After spending over half of my life pursuing the arts both studying in Australia and Los Angeles, I’ve come to know myself and my craft in an enriching way.
Since graduating from my Bachelor in Film Production and founding my production company: The Creek Company – I have continued to facilitate my career. By creating this pathway it allows me to grow exponentially but more importantly allows me to maintain the integrity of my aspirations.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I’d love to be more self assured in some ways, but only a little bit.
Who inspires you and why?
On a day to day basis my close team of friends whom I collaborate with inspire me with their work ethic, ambition and ultimately it keeps me accountable to my goals. For me it’s always a good boost of motivation to reflect on where I’m at, where I’m going within the industry and ultimately if anything needs to adjust to achieve that.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Film and theatre to me speaks a language that is universal – anyone, anywhere can engage with it in a way that is uniquely meaningful to them. I think that has so much power and is instrumental in making a difference. My hope is to continue to contribute to this and connect with those willing to engage.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
So far I would have to say Hakuba in Japan. It was my first time experiencing snow and skiing out in the elements, which was incredible. What really made it for me was how beautiful the town we stayed in was. Although it didn’t feel like we left Australia because of the flock of tourists everywhere… it was still far enough away to feel a part of the history of the small town of Tsugaike.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Warrandyte. It’s not necessarily conventional but in summer the river is so peaceful and breathtaking. It also gives us a nice opportunity to slow down and enjoy each other’s company.
What are you currently reading?
To be honest I don’t read too much outside the world of scripts but when I do I’m very drawn to non-fiction especially books that relate to the human condition.
What are you currently listening to?
I’ve been really obsessed with the Sirāt soundtrack lately – the way that film intersects electronic music through the narrative in such an evocative way is so fascinating to me.
Happiness is?
A clarity that allows you to navigate the ups and downs that life throws at you. In a way, it’s a feeling that everything is exactly as it should be.
What does the future hold for you?
I would love to know the answer to that question on the whole. I honestly wouldn’t have thought I would be exactly where I am today but the immediate future is slightly easier to predict.
My production company has a new short film, The Squatters and The Fairy Princess, undergoing its film festival circuit. I’m very excited to see the life of this film unfold and it’s future is very bright, already gaining attention from the Cannes Film Market. On the acting side of things I’m excited to have been a part of the feature, Insidious: Out of the Further, which is releasing this year (unfortunately I can’t say much more about it at this stage).
One last thing I’m excited for is my production company’s early development into the feature film landscape with a film titled The Trees Told Me too. It’s a psychological thriller about money, greed and purpose. I’m truly excited about the future and what it may bring. I think as long as I continue feeling fulfilled in creating then the sky is the limit for me and who knows what will be right around the corner.
Ben is an Actor and Producer – who was recently awarded the NIDA Emerging Performer Award for Best Male Actor at Tropfest 2026 for We Don’t Take Breaks.
Image: Ben Keller (supplied)