Matthew Archibald
Acting
Biography
Despite his cerebral palsy and profound deafness, Matthew is a talented and fearless actor. He stands out among performers with severe disabilities and is known for his faultlessly optimistic attitude and willingness to take on challenging roles. He is best known in Davo Hardy films such as A Silent Agreement (2017) and Aaron's Consent (2014), essentially playing a version of himself, but still aiming to stand as a role model for other actors with all forms of disabilities.
Known For
The first Australian film to feature Auslan (Australian Sign Language). "A Silent Agreement" tells the story of Reuben, a sensitive writer, who grapples with a speech impediment. His boyfriend, Derek, a profoundly deaf Human Rights activist, provides strategies to restore his confidence and communication skills. When Reuben approaches an over-the-hill film producer with his autobiographical screenplay, the producer betrays him and Reuben is forced to overcome the long-term effects of bullying in order to succeed.
A Silent Agreement
A documentary exploring the life of a man with multiple disabilities, as he discusses his approach to sexuality and romance; focusing on his desire for a genuine partner, as opposed to a carer, a martyr or somebody "doing him a favour".
Desire/Ability
A man afflicted with cerebral palsy and profound deafness yearns for a meaningful relationship. His widowed father is torn between providing a high quality of life for his son and the reality of how unlikely it is that he will succeed.