The highly anticipated feature documentary SHARKO, directed by Luke Graham, is set to have its Australian premiere at Queensland’s prestigious Brisbane International Film Festival (BIFF), marking a fitting tribute to the heartland of rugby league. SHARKO delves into the remarkable life of New Zealand rugby league legend Mark “Sharko” Graham, once regarded as the world’s best player. Renowned for his unmatched combination of size, speed, and toughness, Mark dominated on the field, reshaping the sport while leading his teams and country to the brink of greatness. Yet, despite his towering presence on the world stage, he remained an enigma—especially to his biggest fan, his son Luke. In this deeply personal documentary, filmmaker Luke Graham unravels the story of his father, offering an intimate portrayal of their complicated relationship. Through candid interviews and a unique cinematic lens, SHARKO explores the sacrifices, hardships, and glories that defined Mark’s career, while capturing the emotional journey of a son seeking to understand the man behind the legend.
“We’re truly honoured to have SHARKO screen at the Brisbane International Film Festival,” says Luke Graham. “It’s the perfect location for our Australian premiere, as the documentary was largely created here in Queensland. We can’t wait to reconnect with old friends and make new ones in this celebration of rugby league and filmmaking.”
Established in 1992, BIFF stands as Queensland’s premier film festival, showcasing thought-provoking and engaging films from Australia and across the globe. The festival’s 2024 line-up promises a diverse program that highlights innovative storytelling and powerful cinema. To commemorate the premiere, both Mark and Luke Graham will walk the red carpet, joined by rugby legends from Queensland, Australia, and New Zealand. Following the screening, audiences will have the rare opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with Mark and Luke, diving deeper into the stories behind the film. For more information