Warwick Thornton to Direct Epic Australian Film First Warrior with Sam Worthington and Jason Clarke Joining Cast

Warwick Thornton. Photo by Ben King.

Camera d’Or award-winning director Warwick Thornton, known for Samson & Delilah and The New Boy, has signed on to direct the upcoming feature film First Warrior, an epic tale about the Aboriginal resistance fighter Pemulwuy.

Pemulwuy, a Bidjigal man from the Sydney tribes, led a 12-year resistance against British settlers during the late 1700s, defending his people’s traditional lands as Australia was colonised. First Warrior will bring this powerful story to the big screen, supported by the Bidjigal, Dharawal, and Dharug Elders, ensuring the cultural significance and authenticity of the film.

The all-Indigenous core creative team is led by Thornton, with Jon Bell (The Moogai, Cleverman) as writer and Andrew Dillon, a Dharug and Gomeroi descendent, as writer-producer through his Indigenous-owned production company, That’s-A-Wrap Productions.

Joining the team are notable Australian actors Sam Worthington (Avatar, Hacksaw Ridge) and Jason Clarke (Oppenheimer, Zero Dark Thirty), with a search underway for actors to portray Pemulwuy and Bennelong, the latter of whom was famously kidnapped by Governor Arthur Phillip to start a dialogue with Indigenous Australians.

The film also has the backing of renowned screenwriters Stuart Beattie (Collateral, Pirates of the Caribbean) and Phillip Noyce (Rabbit-Proof Fence, Salt), ensuring First Warrior is set to be an epic and culturally resonant production.

Thornton said, “I am so honoured to be a part of this amazing film. It’s an important story with an awesome script and legendary actors”.

Andrew Dillon said: “It has been a lifelong goal of mine to have our Indigenous warriors celebrated on the silver screen. I can’t wait for audiences to not only experience Warwick’s vision for this story but to leave the cinema with a newfound appreciation of Australia’s shared history”.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Harriet Dixon-Smith of Nixco

Marvel Just Dropped the Thunderbolts Teaser Trailer and Poster—And We’re Already Obsessed

Hold onto your popcorn, Marvel fans! The first teaser trailer and poster for Thunderbolts just dropped, and it’s giving us all the vibes. This isn’t your typical superhero team-up—Thunderbolts is bringing together the MCU’s least expected (and most chaotic) misfits, and we’re already counting down the days until it hits Aussie cinemas.

Let’s break it down. Florence Pugh returns as the fierce (and very over-it) assassin Yelena Belova, and she’s joined by some familiar MCU faces:

  • Bucky Barnes (yep, Sebastian Stan is back to brood),
  • Red Guardian (David Harbour doing what he does best—being hilarious),
  • John Walker (Wyatt Russell, still trying to redeem himself?),
  • Taskmaster (Olga Kurylenko is here for revenge),
  • Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen bringing the spooky vibes), and
  • Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus being shady as ever).

Directed by indie favourite Jake Schreier, with Marvel Studios legend Kevin Feige producing (obviously), this film is shaping up to be one of the most unexpected and hilarious MCU projects to date. It’s like someone said, “What if we took the most random, emotionally unstable characters and made them work together? Chaos!”

And we are HERE for it.

Oh, and did we mention that Scarlett Johansson is one of the executive producers? Casual.

Thunderbolts is set to hit Aussie cinemas on May 1, 2025, and if the teaser is anything to go by, it’s going to be wild, hilarious, and absolutely epic. Buckle up, Marvel fans—it’s gonna be a bumpy ride!

Transformers One Rolls Out in Style: Hemsworth and Hollywood Cast Hit Sydney Red Carpet

Chris Hemsworth and Brian Tyree Henry attend the Australian Premiere of “Transformers One” at IMAX Sydney on September 11, 2024, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

 

Hollywood star Chris Hemsworth and his wife, Elsa Pataky, made a dazzling appearance at the star-studded premiere of Transformers One alongside their twin sons, Sasha and Tristan. The family turned heads as they walked the red carpet, exuding effortless style.

Hemsworth, known globally for his portrayal of Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, wore a striking blue suit, which he paired with a simple grey T-shirt, giving him a relaxed yet stylish look. Adding a touch of flair, he accessorised with a silver necklace, a matching watch, and several rings, elevating his ensemble to modern chic.

Pataky, a model and actress, radiated elegance in a silk set by Zimmermann, one of Australia’s most iconic fashion houses. The flowing outfit accentuated her natural beauty, and her presence on the red carpet perfectly complemented Hemsworth’s effortless style. Sasha and Tristan, the couple’s twin sons, also captured the attention of the cameras, walking confidently alongside their parents, completing the family’s picture-perfect red carpet moment.

Henry made a bold fashion statement on the red carpet, dressed in a grey suit that was topped off with a long coat. The coat featured a dramatic and eye-catching print of Megatron on the back, paying homage to the character he voices in the film. This striking outfit was a fan-favourite, blending fashion and character in a unique and memorable way.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 11: Chris Hemsworth and Brian Tyree Henry attend the Australian Premiere of “Transformers One” at IMAX Sydney on September 11, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

A Star-Studded Affair in Sydney

For the Sydney premiere of Transformers One, it was just Chris Hemsworth, alongside co-star Bryan Tyree Henry and the film’s director Josh Cooley, who took centre stage. Hemsworth voices the iconic character Orion Pax, the young Autobot who would eventually evolve into Optimus Prime, the supreme commander of the Autobots. Meanwhile, Henry lends his voice to the powerful Megatron, the feared leader of the Decepticons.

The premiere was a significant event, marking another chapter in the globally beloved Transformers franchise. Bryan Tyree Henry made a bold statement with his outfit, donning a grey suit paired with a long coat. The highlight of his look was the dramatic print of Megatron featured on the back of the coat, a nod to his villainous character in the film.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 11: Chris Hemsworth, Elsa Pataky, Tristan Hemsworth and Sasha Hemsworth attend the Australian Premiere of “Transformers One” at IMAX Sydney on September 11, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

An Epic Origin Story: Transformers One

Transformers One takes audiences back to the origins of two of the most iconic characters in the Transformers universe—Optimus Prime and Megatron. Long before they were enemies locked in an eternal battle for supremacy, they were brothers-in-arms, bound by friendship and a shared vision for Cybertron. The film explores how their bond was shattered, leading to a civil war that would alter the course of their planet forever.

In this first-ever fully CG-animated Transformers movie, viewers will witness the rise of these legendary characters in a visually stunning and action-packed narrative. The untold story of Optimus Prime, once known as Orion Pax, and Megatron is finally brought to life in an engaging and emotionally charged adventure.

Directed by Josh Cooley, the film boasts an all-star voice cast, featuring some of Hollywood’s biggest names. Chris Hemsworth leads the pack as the young Orion Pax, while Bryan Tyree Henry gives a gripping performance as Megatron. Joining them are Scarlett Johansson, who voices Elita, Keegan-Michael Key as Bumblebee, Steve Buscemi as Strika, and Jon Hamm as Sentinel Prime. Laurence Fishburne also stars in the film as Alpha Trion, adding to the impressive roster of talent.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 11: Chris Hemsworth and Brian Tyree Henry attend the Australian Premiere of “Transformers One” at IMAX Sydney on September 11, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

A Film with Strong Creative Foundations

Transformers One is written by Andrew Barrer and Gabriel Ferrari, and Eric Pearson also penned the screenplay. Barrer and Ferrari previously worked on Ant-Man and the Wasp, showcasing their expertise in action-packed storytelling that seamlessly blends humour, emotion, and larger-than-life battles. Director Josh Cooley, best known for his work on Toy Story 4, brings his unique vision to the project, ensuring the movie appeals to both long-time Transformers fans and newcomers alike.

With its star-studded cast, emotionally charged story, and breathtaking animation, Transformers One promises to be a cinematic spectacle. The film not only delves into the origins of two of the most iconic characters in the Transformers universe but also provides a fresh perspective on the friendship that ultimately ignited the war that tore their world apart.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 11: Zev Foreman, Lorenzo di Bonaventura, Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry and Josh Cooley attend the Australian Premiere of “Transformers One” at IMAX Sydney on September 11, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by James Gourley/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

The Anticipation Builds

Fans of the franchise and general moviegoers alike eagerly anticipate the release of Transformers One. With the combination of stunning CG animation, an emotional narrative, and the voice talents of some of Hollywood’s finest, the film is expected to be a hit. The dynamic between Optimus Prime and Megatron, once allies and now enemies, will be explored like never before, offering audiences a deeper understanding of their motivations and struggles.

With the film set for release soon, the buzz surrounding Transformers One is only expected to grow. Fans can look forward to an epic, action-packed adventure filled with heart, history, and the high-octane battles that have made the Transformers franchise a global phenomenon.

As Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky made their exit from the premiere, hand in hand with their children, it was clear that Transformers One is set to be a standout film not only in Hemsworth’s impressive career but in the Transformers universe as a whole.

Casting Guild of Australia Awards Set to Return to Sydney in November 2024

The annual Casting Guild of Australia (CGA) Awards Ceremony is returning to Sydney this year. The prestigious invite-only event will be held at the Establishment Hotel on Friday, November 15, 2024. Nominees for the awards will be announced in late October.

Launched in 2015, the CGA Awards is the only casting awards ceremony in the southern hemisphere that celebrates and recognises casting across all mediums, including film, television, television commercials, theatre, new media, and reality. The annual Awards Ceremony seeks to acknowledge and support the critical role casting directors play in bringing together great casting opportunities on a national and international stage.

CGA President Thea McLeod said, “We are thrilled to announce the Casting Guild Award nominations for 2024! Our role is like piecing together a brilliant puzzle—understanding each character’s unique needs and finding the perfect actor to fit each piece. By working closely with directors and producers, we bring their vision to life and make the script truly shine. It’s where the magic happens.

This year has been nothing short of amazing, with a fantastic array of talent showcased in the awards submissions. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of casting directors, who are often the unsung heroes making those brilliant performances possible. We’re incredibly excited to come together at this year’s CGA Awards to celebrate the outstanding work of Australian casting directors and the fantastic contributions they’ve made over the past year.”

2024 CGA AWARD CATEGORIES:

  • Best Casting in a Feature Film
  • Best Casting in a Short Film
  • Best Casting in a TV Comedy
  • Best Casting in a TV Drama 
  • Best Casting in a Telemovie & Miniseries
  • Achievement in Casting
  • Best Casting in a Theatre Production
  • Best Casting in a TVC – Community
  • Best Casting in a TVC

The CGA will also name ten extraordinary actors with the potential to break out on the world stage as the 2024 CGA Rising Stars. The Rising Stars will be announced in early November, and recipients will be interviewed by some of Australia’s top casting directors on CGA’s social pages before the official presentation on November 15.

For further information about CGA visit www.castingguild.com.au and be sure to follow their official socials channels for the latest news and updates.

Dan Ewing Cast as Aussie Lead in Exciting New US-Australia Film Collaboration

Dan Ewing, known for his roles in Home and Away, SAS Australia, and Love and Monsters, is set to take on the Australian lead role in the upcoming film Rembrandt Mansion. This thrilling project is a collaboration between Australian and American filmmakers, with US A-list stars to be announced later. Joining Dan Ewing in the cast are fellow Australian actors Daniel James and Brodie Henson. Daniel James will portray Mike, a shock jock radio announcer in the upcoming film Patched, directed by Steve Mann. Brodie Henson recently appeared as Tito in Deep Red Water, filmed on the Gold Coast and directed by Danial Donai.

With Hollywood increasingly turning to Australia as a prime filming location, and new studios popping up across the country, Rembrandt Mansion aims to strengthen film industry ties between Australia and the US. The film is a novel-to-screen adaptation spearheaded by American film producer and novelist Alexandria Altman. The project is a joint venture between Altman’s Rembrandt Mansion LLC and SWG Entertainment, based in Queensland’s Scenic Rim and Inverell in New South Wales.

Alexandria Altman, often likened to authors Stephanie Meyer and Anne Rice for her unique and captivating writing style, is leading the US production team. The team also includes legendary composer and music director Alan Howarth, known for his work on the Star Trek and Halloween franchises, as well as Escape From New York. With over 160 films to his name, Howarth’s involvement promises an epic score. Screenwriter Melody Rowland, whose credits include Hill Street Blues, Full House, and Growing Pains, has also joined the team, adding her expertise to what is expected to be a Hollywood blockbuster.

On the Australian side, the production team includes Mike Donnelly, Ross Wohlsen, and Pamela Wohlsen of SWG Entertainment. More announcements about the project and the Australian team are expected soon, with updates to be available on the SWG Entertainment website.

Dan Ewing’s casting in Rembrandt Mansion marks another significant milestone in his career, as well as an exciting step forward in the growing collaboration between the Australian and American film industries. Keep an eye out for more details on this highly anticipated film!

This article was sourced from a media release supplied by Pam Wohlsen of SWG Entertainment (image supplied)

Award-Winning Thriller ‘THE MOOGAI’ Set for Australian Release on 31 October 2024

Maslow Entertainment has announced that the highly anticipated First Nations psychological horror film, THE MOOGAI, will be released in Australian cinemas on 31 October 2024. The film had its World Premiere earlier this year at the Sundance Film Festival and its Australian Premiere at the 2024 Sydney Film Festival, where it won the GIO Audience Award for Best Australian Feature. It was also recently screened at the 2024 Melbourne International Film Festival and is currently a finalist for the film prize at this month’s 2024 CinefestOZ Film Festival in Western Australia.

THE MOOGAI stars a stellar cast, including Shari Sebbens (The Sapphires, Thor: Love and Thunder), Meyne Wyatt (We Are Still Here), Tessa Rose (Top End Wedding), Clarence Ryan (Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga), Toby Leonard Moore (Mank), and Bella Heathcote (Relic, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies). The film is produced by Kristina Ceyton and Samantha Jennings of Causeway Films (The Babadook, Talk To Me) and Mitchell Stanley of No Coincidence Media (We Are Still Here).

Directed by Jon Bell in his feature film debut, THE MOOGAI is based on his acclaimed short film of the same name. This psychological horror intertwines the harrowing history of the Stolen Generations with First Nations storytelling. For Indigenous Australians, the term “Moogai” can mean “boogeyman,” among other things.

The film follows Sarah and Fergus, a young Aboriginal couple celebrating the birth of their second child. However, their joy quickly turns to dread when Sarah begins to see a malevolent spirit she believes is trying to steal her baby. While Fergus, who cannot see the spirit, wants to trust her, he grows increasingly concerned as Sarah becomes more unhinged. The central question becomes: is the child-stealing spirit real, or is Sarah herself the greatest threat to her family?

THE MOOGAI received significant production investment from Screen Australia’s First Nations Department in collaboration with Screen NSW through the Made in NSW Fund and Regional Filming Fund. Additional financing was provided by Spectrum Films, Kojo Studios, Anahat Films, Salmira Productions, and Head Gear Films, with post-production, digital, and visual effects supported by Screen NSW.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Nixco

Paramount Pictures Releases Thrilling New Trailer for “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” Featuring Keanu Reeves as Shadow the Hedgehog

Paramount Pictures has just released the highly anticipated trailer for “Sonic the Hedgehog 3,” offering fans a first look at the epic showdown between Sonic (voiced by Ben Schwartz) and his formidable new enemy, Shadow the Hedgehog, voiced by none other than Keanu Reeves. The trailer teases a high-stakes battle that will take the franchise to new heights, promising an action-packed adventure full of surprises.

Synopsis

This holiday season, Sonic returns to the big screen for his most thrilling adventure yet. The beloved blue hedgehog, along with his friends Knuckles and Tails, faces an unprecedented challenge as they confront Shadow, a mysterious new villain with powers that far exceed anything they have encountered before. With their skills and abilities pushed to their limits, Team Sonic is forced to seek an unlikely alliance in order to stop Shadow and protect the planet from impending danger.

Star-Studded Cast and Crew

Director Jeff Fowler returns to helm the third instalment of the Sonic franchise, alongside a star-studded cast featuring Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Idris Elba, Colleen O’Shaughnessey, Natasha Rothwell, Shemar Moore, Adam Pally, Lee Majdoub, and newcomers Alyla Browne and Krysten Ritter. The film introduces Keanu Reeves to the franchise as Shadow the Hedgehog, bringing his iconic voice and gravitas to the role of Sonic’s new arch-nemesis.

Production Details

“Sonic the Hedgehog 3” is produced by Neal H. Moritz, Toby Ascher, Toru Nakahara, and Hitoshi Okuno, with Haruki Satomi, Shuji Utsumi, Yukio Sugino, Jeff Fowler, Tommy Gormley, and Tim Miller serving as executive producers. The screenplay, crafted by Pat Casey, Josh Miller, and John Whittington, is based on the popular SEGA video game series that has captured the hearts of fans worldwide.

This new chapter in the Sonic saga is brought to life by a collaboration between Original Film, Marza Animation Planet, and Blur Studio, in association with Sega Sammy Group. The story, penned by Pat Casey and Josh Miller, promises to blend humour, heart, and high-octane action, staying true to the spirit of the beloved video game franchise.

Anticipation Builds for a Holiday Release

As the release date approaches, anticipation for “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” is reaching fever pitch. The film is expected to deliver a thrilling cinematic experience, with stunning animation, compelling characters, and a storyline that will captivate audiences of all ages. With Keanu Reeves joining the cast as Shadow, the stakes have never been higher for Sonic and his friends.

“Sonic the Hedgehog 3” races into theatres this holiday season. Fans can look forward to an unforgettable adventure that promises to be the franchise’s most exciting instalment yet. Don’t miss this epic showdown between Sonic and Shadow—mark your calendars now!

Australian Animation Shines in 200% Wolf – A Heartwarming, Hilarious Ride

200% Wolf, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2020 hit 100% Wolf, is a vibrant, fun-filled adventure that will have kids and adults alike howling with laughter. This Australian animated film takes everything we loved about the original and cranks it up to a whole new level, delivering a story that’s both heartwarming and hilariously entertaining.

Plot and Characters

Our hero, Freddy Lupin, returns in this new chapter, but he’s not just the cute pink poodle we remember. Freddy is determined to prove himself as the leader of his werewolf pack, but there’s one small hitch—he still struggles to earn their respect. His journey takes a wild turn when a wayward wish transforms him into a full-fledged werewolf. But that’s not all—this wish also brings a mischievous moon sprite to Earth, creating chaos that could lead to the collision of the Earth and the moon!

As Freddy embarks on a mission to restore cosmic order, he’s joined by his loyal dog pals, including the ever-reliable Batty, voiced by Samara Weaving. Their journey is filled with wild escapades, including avoiding a dangerous sorceress with a serious grudge against the wolf pack. The stakes are high, especially as Freddy’s new moon sprite friend is running out of life energy, threatening to fade away forever.

Voice Acting and Performances

The voice acting in 200% Wolf is nothing short of spectacular. Ilai Swindells, who voices Freddy, brings just the right amount of charm and wit to the role, making Freddy a lovable hero for whom audiences will undoubtedly root. Samara Weaving’s Batty is the perfect mix of sass and sweetness, while Akmal Saleh’s Hamish adds plenty of laughs. The standout performance, however, comes from Jennifer Saunders, who absolutely shines as the witchy Max. Saunders relishes every moment of screen time, bringing a delightful energy to the character that’s impossible to resist.

Visuals and Animation

Visually, 200% Wolf is a treat. The animation is lush and expressive, with every scene bursting with colour and creativity. It’s clear that the filmmakers have poured their hearts into making this film a visual feast, and the result is an experience that rivals the best in animated cinema, even Pixar. The vibrant world of 200% Wolf is a place where imagination knows no bounds, and every frame is packed with detail that’s sure to delight viewers of all ages.

Story and Themes

But what really makes 200% Wolf special is its story. At its core, this is a film about friendship, teamwork, and believing in yourself. Freddy’s journey to lead his pack isn’t just about proving his strength—it’s about realising that true leadership comes from the heart. The film’s themes are beautifully woven into the narrative, making it not just an entertaining watch but also a meaningful one. The humour is spot-on, with plenty of jokes that will appeal to both kids and adults, but the film also balances the laughs with tender moments that are genuinely touching.

One of our favourite characters was Moopoo, whose antics had us laughing out loud. The humour in 200% Wolf is spot-on, with plenty of jokes that will appeal to both kids and adults. But the film also has its tender moments, balancing the laughs with scenes that are genuinely touching.

Final Thoughts

200% Wolf is an absolute joy from start to finish. It’s the kind of film that leaves you with a big smile on your face, feeling like you’ve just been on a wild, wonderful ride. In a time when many family films lean towards darker themes, 200% Wolf is a refreshing burst of joy and colour. It’s a must-see at the cinema, and trust me—you’ll want to see this one on the biggest screen possible.

So, if you’re looking for a movie that’s bursting with energy, packed with laughs, and full of heart, 200% Wolf is the one to watch.

Rating:3.5/5 Stars

Exclusive First Look at “Disney’s Snow White” Unveiled at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event

Excitement reached new heights at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event as fans were treated to an exclusive preview of the upcoming live-action musical, Disney’s Snow White. The highly anticipated film, which is set to open exclusively in Australian cinemas in March 2025, was showcased with a captivating teaser trailer and a stunning new poster.

Stars Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot, who bring to life the beloved characters of Snow White and the Evil Queen respectively, were on hand to share exclusive details about the production. Fans were also given a sneak peek at the enchanting “Whistle While You Work” scene, showcasing the film’s vibrant and magical reimagining of the classic 1937 animated feature.

Disney’s Snow White is a fresh, live-action take on the timeless story, directed by Marc Webb and produced by Marc Platt and Jared LeBoff. The film features all-new original songs composed by the acclaimed duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. Callum McDougall serves as executive producer, ensuring that this musical adventure remains true to the heart of the original while introducing new elements to captivate a new generation of audiences.

The film will feature all the cherished characters from the beloved story, including Bashful, Doc, Dopey, Grumpy, Happy, Sleepy, and Sneezy, bringing them to life with a blend of nostalgia and innovation.

Australian fans can look forward to a magical experience when Disney’s Snow White graces the big screen in March 2025. Check out the trailer below:

 

Meet The Young Australian Filmmakers Turning Their Love Of Celluloid Into A Calling

How do we stay human in a world ruled by content and consumption? It’s a question that seems to circle everything these days, including the now ever-evolving and existential questions about the potential for AI to permanently disrupt the purity of human creativity. And nowhere else are these questions more focused or receiving more public scrutiny than in the film industry, who are becoming, it seems, the yardstick for how far studios are willing to go to take advantage of new technologies for increased profits. The film industry is thrumming with activity, keen to satisfy the bottomless appetite of its audiences. With the rise of AI looming large over the industry and an implosion of content saturating the market, the question for the modern filmmaker is this: how do you stand out in the age of information?

A small group of Sydney-based filmmakers are pushing back against these trends and returning to what they believe is the human heart of filmmaking: the art of celluloid and the printed image. Writer-Director Mark Wills, and his producers, actors Rahel Romahn and Mojean Aria (recipients of the prestigious Heath Ledger Scholarship award) have turned a love affair with celluloid into a calling.

Together, they have teamed up with producer and Head of WIFT (Women in Film & Television), Yolandi Franken, to deliver The Horn, a short film shot of 16mm film stock about the deteriorating relationship between a mother and a daughter, and the former’s obsession with a horn sound she hears bellowing from the sky. It’s been accepted into this year’s Melbourne Film Festival (MIFF), and its Wills’ second short shoot on film, following 2019’s Blood Orange – a surreal tale of revenge captured on 35mm. It’s a commitment to film the trio has attempted to stick to throughout their creative collaboration.

“For us,” says Wills “it’s about going back to the purity of caring about our images. With the rise of content at almost a ‘junk-food’ level of availability, it’s more important now than ever to put out films that are considered in all aspects of a film’s design. A big part of that for me are the visuals.”

For the director, shooting on film is a crucial reminder of our humanity. “The beauty of film is its imperfection. For me, film is the colour of memory. When I see a film, I want to be taken out of reality. I want to be transported away. That’s what I think celluloid does on an unconscious level.”

“The workflow of shooting on film is something that I think forces filmmakers to care about their image in every single way,” adds Aria. “It forces them to care about the image in terms of light, in terms of framing, in terms of how much they can shoot, in terms of practicality. The nature of shooting on film requires so much more discipline. And I think having that discipline and having that care of the image and not just, what we call, spraying and praying, is a workflow that I think is more conducive to creating better stories. Not that you can’t have that discipline shooting digital, but in film you’re forced to.”

“There is a risk and satisfaction in shooting on film stock,” notes Romahn. “It’s very exciting when a filmmaker wants to shoot on film and is requiring their story to be shot on film, because they’re giving themselves that challenge.”

Wills and Romahn grew up together in Sydney and bonded as teenagers over their love of cinema. Later, in early adulthood, they joined forces with Aria and discovered a mutual desire to explore what it means to be an Australian filmmaker today and navigate the industry as outsiders. “We’re all immigrant, first-generation kids who grew up in Australia,” says Aria. “We have a shared experience of feeling on the outside, of trying to define our Australian-ness, of finding our voice.” Their Thai, Kurdish and Iranian heritage is something that’s shaped their commitment to telling diverse narratives, of elevating those stories by consecrating them to celluloid, and in doing so, helping to find acceptance within themselves and their work.

“I think as someone who is half-Thai, half-Australian, who never quite knew which side of the fence I sat on, something about film resonated with me,” explains Wills. “Shooting on film allowed me to stand out from others. Which is something I did by default when I was young due to who I was, but this makes me feel like I can stand out in a way that is good, that isn’t at a disadvantage to me.”

“We have known each other since we were young teenagers and have always gravitated towards each other artistically,” tells Romahn. “We love to go head-to-head with discussions around filmmaking and this leads to exciting deliberations about the creation of future projects. I think all of us are inspired by collectives like Blue Tongue,” (a production company founded by Australians, Joel & Nash Edgerton, among others) “seeing the success they’ve had in building a collective is something that I think has deeply inspired us.”

The team hope to spend the rest of their careers shooting on film, however, there are some barriers to realising this dream due the absence of a processing lab in Australia willing to develop feature-length films. This means sending the dailies to a lab overseas – a white-knuckle experience for any filmmaker. However, the trio believes the demand is there for an Australian lab, who have been in contact with Kodak’s Vice President and Head of Motion Pictures, Vanessa Bendetti.

“Kodak has made it clear that we’re not the first group of Australians who have reached out to them, who has wanted to make a feature film, in Australia, on film,” says Aria. “At the moment, Kodak is in a position where it really wants to support a lab in Australia, and they are actively looking for Australians to partner with, to make that lab a possibility.”

“It’s sad to think that Australian stories can’t partake in that medium, but also can’t be a part of that legacy of shooting on celluloid,” says the group. “If you read this and feel like you’re the right partner or know the right partner to support Kodak in making a lab in Australia, please reach out. It’s happening right now. This is a call to action.”

Wills hopes to shoot his debut film, Women of Mist on 35mm film. It’s a Thai-Australian horror based on Hungry Ghost spirits and paranormal Buddhist folklore that he has been developing with Georgia White and Timothy White of Southern Lights films. It’s a narrative that is close to his heart and one that embodies the spirit of their collective. “Women of Mist is a film that honours our parents and the hardships they went through but told through the lens of a genre-horror. At its core, it’s about all the invisible stories of immigrant families that can sometimes stay hidden behind the mist.”

Although the future of a film lab in Australia is uncertain, Wills is optimistic. “Of course, there are still hurdles to cross with shooting Women of Mist on film in Australia, but there are always challenges to face. We’ll just take this challenge as another one we’ll overcome.”

Watch The Horn at the 2024 Melbourne Film Festival, running 8th-25th August. Tickets here: The Horn.