Alanah Pearce has a plan to stop Hollywood gatekeeping game adaptations

Alanah Pearce has a plan to stop Hollywood gatekeeping game adaptations

Author: SIFTER April 17, 2026 Duration: 37:48

In the entertainment industry, a triple threat refers to someone ridiculously talented at acting, singing and dancing. So, what does that make Alanah Pearce, the Australian video game writer, actor, content creator, film producer, and one-time boxer: a quintuple threat?

The Dispatch voice actor recently announced Charred Pictures, a production company that helps indie game developers adapt their work for film and TV while retaining creative control — adding yet another string to her bow. Traditionally, Hollywood adaptations of video game franchises take advantage of recognisable characters and settings, while leaving the original creative vision behind.

Alanah has a plan to let game developers have more say about how their work gets adapted: and there’s already more demand than she can keep up with.

Ahead of her appearance at ALT GAMES in Sydney, Alanah spoke to SIFTER to discuss all things indie development, what Hollywood can learn from video games, and the importance of community.

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Ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes of your favourite video games? Lightmap-Conversations with video game creators pulls back the curtain, offering genuine, in-depth chats with the people who bring these worlds to life. This isn't just a series of interviews; it's an award-winning Australian podcast that digs into the messy, fascinating, and deeply human creative process. Each episode feels like you're sitting in on a candid conversation between friends, one of whom just happens to be a brilliant developer, a visionary artist, or a composer whose music defines entire gaming eras. You'll hear stories about the breakthroughs and the breakdowns, the initial spark of an idea and the years of grind it takes to shape it into something you can play. Hosted by SIFTER, the podcast moves beyond just the finished product to explore the craft of interactive media itself. By focusing on the creators' personal journeys and professional challenges, Lightmap provides a unique perspective you won't find in standard reviews or previews. It’s for anyone who's ever finished a game and immediately wanted to know how it was made, or for anyone curious about the intersection of art, technology, and storytelling. Tune in for thoughtful discussions that are as much about the people as they are about the pixels.
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Lightmap - Conversations with video game creators
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