“Richard Roxburgh Leads Stellar Cast in ‘The Correspondent’ – A Riveting Tale of Courage and Survival

Mohamed Fahmy (Julian Maroun), Baher Mohamed (Rahel Romahn) and Peter Greste (Richard Roxburgh) in

The Correspondent. Photo by John Platt.

Today marks the conclusion of filming in Sydney, Australia, for “The Correspondent,” a compelling feature film centered around the experiences of Peter Greste, an acclaimed foreign correspondent. Greste, alongside two colleagues, faced arrest in Cairo in 2013 while working for Al Jazeera, charged with terrorism offenses.

Directed by Kriv Stenders (“Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan,” “Red Dog”) and penned by Peter Duncan (“Rake,” “Operation Buffalo”), the screenplay draws from Greste’s memoir, ‘The First Casualty.’

Leading the cast is Richard Roxburgh (“Rake,” “Elvis”) as Peter Greste, with Julian Maroun (“Fighting Season”) and Rahel Romahn (“Shantaram”) portraying his arrested colleagues, Mohamed Fahmy and Baher Mohamed, respectively. The ensemble also includes Yael Stone (“Orange is the New Black”), Nic Cassim (“Mr Inbetween”), Mojean Aria (“Shayda”), Fayssal Bazzi (“Stateless”), Majid Shokor (“House of Gods”), Josh McConville (“Elvis”), and Hazem Shammas (“The Clearing”).

Set against the backdrop of the Arab Spring in Christmas 2013, the film delves into Greste’s abrupt detention and subsequent accusations of terrorism, thrusting him into a harrowing ordeal where survival hinges on challenging a formidable regime for his freedom.

Carmel Travers, a former foreign correspondent and the first female Head of News and Current Affairs for an Australian television network, produces the film through Pop Family Entertainment. Travers expresses excitement about the stellar performances and the powerful narrative brought to life by the talented cast and director Kriv Stenders.

“The Correspondent” receives production funding from Screen Australia, in association with Screen NSW, with additional support from Jovial Planet Productions, Spectrum Films, Dreamlight Studio, and the Adelaide Film Festival Investment Fund.

Grainne Brunsdon, Director of Content at Screen Australia, underscores the importance of sharing such a vital story with global audiences, praising the project for its enlightenment, passion, and courage.

Kyas Hepworth, Head of Screen NSW, lauds the collaborative efforts of the film’s creative team, highlighting the contribution of the NSW film industry and its diverse talents.

Maslow Entertainment handles distribution in Australia and New Zealand, while Moviehouse Entertainment oversees international sales. Marc Wooldridge, founder and managing director of Maslow Entertainment, expresses pride in being part of a project that promises to captivate audiences with its enduring themes of resilience, loyalty, and bravery.

Marc Wooldridge, founder and managing director of Maslow Entertainment, said: “The Correspondent promises to be an engrossing, tense, and thought-provoking film based on a true story of timeless relevance and grounded in the compelling themes of resilience, loyalty, and courage under fire. It’s the sort of interesting and ambitious project that we believe cinema audiences want to see more of, and so we are very proud to be part of this one.”

This article was sourced from a press release sent by Harriet of Nixco

Unveiling ‘Wicked Little Letters’: A Delightful Dive into British Mystery Comedy

In an exciting announcement for film enthusiasts across Australia, Academy Award® and BAFTA winner Olivia Colman, alongside Director Thea Sharrock, are set to grace the shores of Australia this March for the release of the eagerly anticipated British mystery comedy – ‘Wicked Little Letters’.

Scheduled to hit Australian cinemas on March 21st, ‘Wicked Little Letters’ boasts a stellar cast, including renowned talents such as Olivia Colman, Jessie Buckley, Anjana Vasan, Timothy Spall, Joanna Scanlan, and many more. Directed by the accomplished Thea Sharrock and with a script penned by British actor and writer Jonny Sweet, the film promises an intriguing blend of wit, charm, and suspense, all based on a remarkable true story.

Synopsis: Set against the backdrop of a quaint 1920s English seaside town, ‘Wicked Little Letters’ unfolds as a darkly humorous tale of scandal and intrigue. The narrative revolves around two contrasting neighbors: the prim and proper Edith Swan (played by Olivia Colman) and the vivacious Irish migrant Rose Gooding (portrayed by Jessie Buckley).

The story takes a whimsical turn when the residents of the town start receiving peculiar letters filled with unintentionally hilarious profanities. Amidst the chaos, Rose finds herself wrongly accused of the misdeed. As the scandal gains national attention and a trial ensues, the town’s women, led by the determined Police Officer Gladys Moss (played by Anjana Vasan), take matters into their own hands. With their investigation uncovering surprising truths, it becomes evident that there is more to the case than meets the eye.

Celebrity Spotlight: Olivia Colman’s portrayal of the conservative yet enigmatic Edith Swan promises to captivate audiences with her signature blend of nuance and charisma. Alongside her, Jessie Buckley’s portrayal of the spirited Rose Gooding adds a dynamic layer of energy and intrigue to the narrative.

Director Thea Sharrock’s adept direction brings the whimsical world of ‘Wicked Little Letters’ to life, blending humor and mystery seamlessly to create an immersive cinematic experience.

Final Thoughts: With its stellar cast, captivating storyline, and impeccable direction, ‘Wicked Little Letters’ is poised to delight audiences with its blend of comedy, mystery, and charm. As Olivia Colman and Director Thea Sharrock embark on their journey to Australia, anticipation for the film’s release reaches fever pitch. Prepare to be swept away by the whimsical world of ‘Wicked Little Letters’ as it unravels its delightful tale on the silver screen this March.

The media release was sourced from an article provided by Studio Canal

Get Ready for the Digital Adventure! Disney Just Dropped the First Glimpse of “TRON: Ares” Coming in 2025!

Hold onto your identity discs, Disney fans! The much-anticipated “TRON: Ares” is officially in the works, bringing the iconic TRON universe back to life. This latest installment, directed by Joachim Rønning, promises to blend cutting-edge design, technology, and storytelling to deliver an electrifying experience.

A Journey Beyond the Grid: “TRON: Ares” takes us beyond the digital frontier, introducing Ares, a sophisticated Program with a mission that transcends the boundaries of the virtual realm. Ares ventures into the real world on a thrilling and perilous quest, marking a groundbreaking encounter between humankind and A.I. beings. The Grid is evolving, and so is the adventure!

All-Star Cast Lights Up the Screen: The film boasts an ensemble cast featuring Hollywood heavyweights such as Jared Leto, Greta Lee, Evan Peters, Hasan Minhaj, Jodie Turner-Smith, Arturo Castro, Cameron Monaghan, and the legendary Gillian Anderson. With such a stellar lineup, “TRON: Ares” is set to dazzle audiences with both talent and visual spectacle.

Save the Date: 2025 Arrival! Production kicked off in January in the vibrant city of Vancouver, and the movie is scheduled to hit theaters in 2025. The wait is on, but if the first look is any indication, “TRON: Ares” is gearing up to be an immersive experience that will transport fans back into the heart of the digital grid.

Director’s Excitement: Director Joachim Rønning is thrilled to be at the helm of “TRON: Ares,” expressing his excitement about building upon the legacy of the TRON franchise. He states, “Now more than ever, it feels like the right time to return to the Grid.” Fans can expect a fusion of nostalgia and innovation in this cinematic journey.

A Legacy Continues: “TRON: Ares” follows in the groundbreaking footsteps of Disney’s 1982 classic “TRON” and its 2010 sequel “TRON: Legacy.” With a fresh narrative, state-of-the-art visuals, and an all-star cast, this new chapter is poised to capture the imaginations of both longtime TRON enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Prepare for an Adventure Like Never Before – “TRON: Ares” is Set to Illuminate Screens in 2025!

From Gold Coast to Tinseltown: Marissa Kaye’s Journey as an Aussie Producer Takes a Quantum Leap with Upcoming Hollywood Blockbuster

Australian actor and film producer Marissa Kaye is poised to make a groundbreaking entry into the U.S. film industry with her latest venture, spearheading the creation of the next big Hollywood Franchise, “Anti-Social.” Collaborating once again with award-winning writer Brendan Byrne, the duo aims to captivate global audiences with their creative prowess.

Having accumulated a series of accolades throughout her career, Marissa Kaye expresses her excitement about the project, stating, “I’ve always been inspired by the history of stories that Hollywood has produced over the years. It’s a dream come true to be part of the industry and contribute my perspective to the global tapestry of cinema. I believe that by immersing myself, I can push my creative boundaries and create something truly extraordinary.”

Brendan Byrne, known for his award-winning work, joins forces with Marissa once again after their successful collaboration on multiple projects under Shadow Wolves Productions, spanning Sydney, Gold Coast, and now the United States. Their shared commitment to storytelling is further emphasized by the success of their previous film, “I’m Here Too,” which became a viral sensation, raising awareness for teen suicide.

With over 13 million views on YouTube and significant success on Tubi, the duo’s impactful film sparked widespread conversation with over 100,000 comments, paving the way for their upcoming Hollywood project. Currently shrouded in secrecy, the project is already generating buzz among industry insiders, who eagerly speculate on the genre and potential star-studded cast.

Marissa and Brendan, who have two more productions lined up to shoot on the Gold Coast, continue to push boundaries with their unique storytelling approach. Their dedication to creating meaningful content that resonates with audiences reflects in the success of their previous works and sets the stage for another remarkable Hollywood venture.

As the industry anticipates the unveiling of their latest project, Hollywood is on notice – Marissa Kaye is bringing her creative vision and Australian charm to the forefront. Get ready for the next big Hollywood franchise as another Aussie powerhouse takes center stage.

Beyond Imagination: Blumhouse’s IMAGINARY Promises a Hair-Raising Journey into the Dark Unknown

Prepare to dive into the sinister depths of childhood imagination as Blumhouse, the acclaimed creators of FIVE NIGHTS AT FREDDY’S and M3GAN, presents a spine-chilling original horror experience – IMAGINARY. This haunting tale questions the innocence of imaginary friends, leaving audiences to wonder if these companions are merely products of youthful creativity or something far more sinister lurking beneath the surface.

When Jessica (DeWanda Wise) relocates with her family back to her childhood home, an unsettling turn of events unfolds as her youngest stepdaughter, Alice (Pyper Braun), develops an eerie attachment to a seemingly harmless stuffed bear named Chauncey, discovered in the basement. Innocent playtime takes a dark turn as Alice’s games with Chauncey evolve from playful to disturbing.

As Jessica attempts to intervene and understand the mysterious bond between Alice and Chauncey, she discovers that the cuddly bear is far from an ordinary toy – unveiling a nightmarish truth that challenges the very fabric of reality.

Lionsgate and Blumhouse present, a Tower of Babble production

Release Date: In Cinemas March 7

Cast:

  • DeWanda Wise
  • Tom Payne
  • Taegan Burns
  • Pyper Braun
  • Veronica Falcon
  • Betty Buckley

Directed By: Jeff Wadlow

Written By: Jeff Wadlow & Greg Erb & Jason Oremland

Produced By: Jason Blum, Jeff Wadlow, p.g.a.

Prepare for a cinematic journey that will unravel the darkest corners of imagination. IMAGINARY, a Blumhouse horror masterpiece, hits theaters on March 7. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of suspense, fear, and the unsettling question – what if your imaginary friend is not a product of your imagination, but something far more sinister?

FilmCentral Magazine Spotlights AACTA Awards 2024: A Night of Celebration, Diversity, and Unforgettable Moments

Photo Credit: Matt Bonnici

The glamour of the 2024 AACTA Awards illuminated HOTA, Home of the Arts on Queensland’s breathtaking Gold Coast, on Saturday, February 10. The preceding AACTA Industry Awards took place on Thursday, February 8, marking an extraordinary celebration of the Australian film industry. Among the attendees was FilmCentral Magazine’s editor-in-chief, who, along with the Streets of Colour team, captured the essence of this prestigious event.

FilmCentral Magazine proudly reports that several members of their Streets of Colour team graced the AACTA Awards ceremony, commemorating the collective effort that earned them a nomination for Best Film – Independent. The editor-in-chief expressed immense pride for the cast, crew, and supporters, acknowledging the dedication and hard work that led to this significant recognition.

“While we didn’t secure the win in our category, being nominated was a monumental achievement in itself. Our Streets of Colour team had a one in six chance, and the acknowledgment of their work on such a platform is a testament to their talent and dedication,” said Yolandi Franken, Editor-in-Chief of FilmCentral Magazine.

The Streets of Colour team’s nomination for Best Film – Independent was a remarkable acknowledgment of their commitment to storytelling that pushes boundaries. The editor-in-chief emphasized the importance of overcoming systemic challenges and addressing the fear associated with telling stories that resonate with marginalized communities.

“In their pursuit of creative excellence, the Streets of Colour team faced systemic mountains and navigated the fear entrenched in those hesitant to share narratives like theirs. Their journey symbolizes a commitment to breaking barriers, taking risks, and amplifying voices that often go unheard,” added Franken.

While the win eluded them, the Streets of Colour team’s presence at the AACTA Awards was a triumph in itself, shining a spotlight on their resilience and dedication to bringing meaningful stories to the forefront of the Australian film landscape.

“Back to Black” Unveils Captivating Full Trailer: Marisa Abela Steps into Amy Winehouse’s Shoes

Photo supplied by Studio Canal

The much-anticipated biopic, “Back to Black,” which delves into the extraordinary life of the iconic singer Amy Winehouse, has just released its gripping full trailer. The spotlight is on Marisa Abela, who brilliantly portrays the late Amy Winehouse, giving audiences a glimpse into the artist’s tumultuous journey and enduring legacy.

Amy Winehouse, a globally acclaimed singer, left an indelible mark on the music industry before her tragic demise at the age of 27 in 2011. “Back to Black” pays homage to the soulful artist, capturing the essence of her life on the vibrant streets of Camden while navigating the challenges of global fame.

The official synopsis for the film describes “Back to Black” as a celebration of the most iconic and sorely missed homegrown star of the 21st century. The biopic presents a vivid and poignant portrayal of Amy Winehouse, acknowledging her artistry, wit, and honesty, while also delving into the demons she faced.

“Back to Black” explores the intricacies of the modern celebrity machine, offering an unflinching look at the highs and lows of global stardom. It serves as a powerful tribute to a once-in-a-generation talent whose music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

Marisa Abela’s portrayal of Amy Winehouse adds depth and authenticity to the film, capturing the spirit of the legendary singer. The full trailer promises an emotional and compelling cinematic experience, inviting fans and newcomers alike to join in the celebration of Amy’s life and talent.

“Back to Black” is set to be a must-watch biopic, providing an intimate look at the highs and lows of Amy Winehouse’s remarkable journey. The film is poised to be a touching tribute to an artist whose legacy endures through her timeless music.

Darkly Delightful Romantasy ‘Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person’ Set To Hit Cinemas Nationwide on February 15

Pivot Pictures is excited to reveal the launch of the charmingly unconventional coming-of-age dramedy, “Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person,” set to exclusively hit cinemas across the nation on Thursday, February 15, 2024.

Crafted by the acclaimed director Ariane Louis-Seize, the film recently clinched the prestigious Best Director award at Giornate Degli Autori – Mostra de Venice, 2023 (a title previously bestowed upon Jillian Armstrong for her masterpiece, “Power of the Dog”). Garnering numerous nominations and wins from global film festivals, this darkly delightful and playfully genre-clashing feature is swiftly earning the status of an instant cult favorite among both fans and critics.

The narrative unfolds around Sasha, a tender-hearted young vampire whose aversion to killing is so intense that she can’t even bare her fangs. When her desperate parents cut off her blood supply, Sasha’s life hangs in the balance. Fortunately, she crosses paths with Paul, a lonely teenager struggling to find his place in the world, willing to help save her. Their burgeoning friendship propels them into a whirlwind of adventures to be undertaken before the break of day.

Director Ariane Louis-Seize delves into the philosophical and potentially tragicomic by posing the question of what happens when creatures destined to kill for survival start contemplating the value of the lives they take compared to their own. Sasha, a young humanist vampire ready to sacrifice herself to spare others, is born out of this ethical exploration.

Above all, the film explores the characters’ quest for identity during the tumultuous teenage years, testing limits, questioning everything, and leaving a lasting impact. Louis-Seize emphasizes the universality of daily problems, mental loads for women, reluctance of children to leave the nest, and the need for these dynamics to exist in the lives of vampires.

“Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person” boasts sumptuous visuals, a stylish soundtrack, and darkly funny humor, presenting a tender-hearted romantasy destined to capture countless bloodsucking hearts with its array of dark-tinged delights.

Catch the nationwide release of “Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person” on Thursday, February 15, 2024, and indulge in special (anti) Valentine’s Day screenings on February 14 at selected cinemas.

Prepare for Chills: YOU’LL NEVER FIND ME Set to Redefine Psychological Thrillers in 2024

The highly anticipated psychological thriller YOU’LL NEVER FIND ME has unveiled its trailer and poster, building anticipation for its national release on March 14, 2024. Following a successful world premiere as the sole Australian film showcased at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival, the film, known for its sharp and twisted narrative, earned the prestigious title of Best Feature Film at SXSW Sydney 2023. Additionally, it garnered acclaim at both the Melbourne International Film Festival and Adelaide Film Festival.

Directed by the talented filmmaking duo from Adelaide, Josiah Allen and Indianna Bell, YOU’LL NEVER FIND ME marks their compelling feature directorial debut. The film stars Brendan Rock and Jordan Cowan, weaving a ‘nightmare come to life’ horror/thriller that delves into power dynamics, paranoia, and psychological twists.

Synopsis: In the aftermath of a violent thunderstorm, Patrick, an enigmatic and isolated resident living in a mobile home at the rear of a secluded caravan park, encounters a mysterious young woman seeking refuge from the weather. As the night unfolds, and the young woman unravels the secrets surrounding Patrick, leaving becomes increasingly challenging. Doubts about Patrick’s intentions arise, questioning not only his motives but also his grip on reality.

Umbrella Entertainment is set to distribute the film in Australia and New Zealand, with the release date scheduled for March 14, 2024.

Check out the trailer below:

The Official Trailer for New Amy Winehouse Biopic, ‘Back To Black’ Has Just Dropped

STUDIOCANAL and Monumental Pictures reveal the international teaser trailer and poster for the highly anticipated film “BACK TO BLACK,” directed by acclaimed filmmaker and visual artist Sam Taylor-Johnson. The movie is set to grace Australian cinemas on April 18, 2024.

Exploring Amy Winehouse’s vibrant years in London and her tumultuous path to stardom, Taylor-Johnson helms the talented Marisa Abela (Industry), who steps into the shoes of the iconic music figure Amy Winehouse.

Alongside Marisa Abela, the cast includes the BAFTA-winning Jack O’Connell as Blake Fielder-Civil, Eddie Marsan as Mitch Winehouse, Juliet Cowan as Janis Winehouse, and the Golden Globe and Oscar-nominated Lesley Manville portraying Amy’s grandmother, Cynthia.

Backed by a lineup of Amy’s chart-topping songs performed by Marisa Abela, the film “BACK TO BLACK” receives full support from Universal Music Group and SONY Music Publishing.

Director Sam Taylor-Johnson expresses, “Discovering a talent like Marisa Abela is akin to finding gold dust. The moment she looked into the lens at her first audition, I knew she was the perfect actor to play Amy Winehouse. She put in an enormous amount of work, paying attention to every detail, and trained daily for hours to be able to sing throughout the entire movie. She doesn’t impersonate Amy, she inhabits her.”

Crafted by Matt Greenhalgh (Nowhere Boy, Control), the screenplay for “BACK TO BLACK” has Giles Martin (Rocketman, The Beatles: Get Back) overseeing music production, and Nina Gold (1917, The Power of the Dog) leading the film’s casting.

Produced by Alison Owen (Saving Mr Banks, Me Before You, Elizabeth) and Debra Hayward (Les Miserables, Bridget Jones’s Baby) of Monumental Pictures, along with Nicky Kentish-Barnes (About Time, Everest, About A Boy), “BACK TO BLACK” is executive produced by Sam Taylor-Johnson, Ron Halpern, and SVP Global Production Joe Naftalin on behalf of STUDIOCANAL.