Community
10 November, 2024
Hollywood fame for local
A PORT Douglas-raised local has gone from being a pizza delivery boy to a set designer on blockbuster movies.
Thomas Salpietro works internationally in the Hollywood film industry.
Mr Salpietro, 37, has worked on such films as ‘The Mummy’, ‘Extraction 2’ and ‘Avatar’.
He got his start in the industry when the mini-series ‘The Pacific’ was being filmed around Port Douglas in 2007.
“A friend called me up and I was delivering pizzas,” Mr Salpietro said.
“They needed a runner so I got the job as a runner and started there. And then I switched from runner to swing gang, like a labourer on the sets.
“I grew up in Port Douglas and had my first job on ‘The Pacific’ nearly 17 years ago. Since then I have excelled in the industry and I am now head of department ‘set decorator in production design’ and get flown all over the world to create film sets.
“Basically we bring the sets to life, we bring in the detail.
“Last year I got to go back to Port Douglas to oversee and create the sets for ‘Godzilla X Kong’ that was partially shot in the Daintree.
“I would love to see the industry grow in North Queensland.”
Although he’s worked with stars such as Tom Cruise, Robert De Niro, Jason Statham, Nicholas Cage and Chris Hemsworth, he remains down to earth.
“You just have to stay humble,” Mr Salpietro said.
“I don’t think anyone’s more special than anyone else,” he said.
“People are people, and that’s what I’ve found.
“Even the majority of actors you come across – it’s more the hype around everything. Everyone’s humble and super friendly. No-one likes an ego.”
Although spending most of his time overseas, Mr Salpietro still considers himself a Port Douglas boy.
“I think growing up there and it never really comes away from you,” he said.
“I love the chilled vibe of the area. My Mum and Dad are still there, my sister, my nephews are there.
“Mainly when I go home, I love going fishing. I just love that the chilled nature of it.
“You’ll never find a town like Port Douglas, it’s very special.”
