Today, Disney+ unveiled the key art and trailer for the sophomore season of the Original series, “The Mysterious Benedict Society,” from Disney Branded Television and 20th Television, which will return with a two-episode premiere on Wednesday, October 26 on Disney+. This season, Reynie, Sticky, Kate and Constance, the four gifted orphans who were recruited by the eccentric Mr. Benedict (Tony Hale), embark on another mission to save the world from the nefarious plans of his twin brother Dr. L.D. Curtain (also Hale). The Original series, based on the New York Times bestselling book series by Trenton Lee Stewart, will debut new episodes weekly on Wednesdays, streaming on Disney+. When the kids discover that Mr. Benedict and Number Two have been kidnapped, they must piece together the riddles and clues within a perilous scavenger hunt set by Mr. Benedict to foil Curtain’s latest scheme. Relying on only their wits, intellect, and empathy, the charming group of misfits embark on a globe-trotting adventure by air, land, sea and pie truck, calling upon their special skills to solve the mysteries and rescue their lost comrades. Along the way, the kids experience the growing pains that come along with being part of their new “found family”, while remaining true to their unique selves. In the process, they discover what true happiness really means. In addition to Hale, “The Mysterious Benedict Society” stars Kristen Schaal as Number Two; MaameYaa Boafo as Rhonda Kazembe; Ryan Hurst as Milligan; Gia Sandhu as Ms. Perumal; Seth B. Carr as George “Sticky” Washington; Emmy DeOliveira as Kate Wetherall; Mystic Inscho as Reynie Muldoon; and Marta Kessler as Constance Contraire. The Disney Branded Television series is executive produced by Halcyon Studio a Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment Company and 20th Television. Jamie Tarses, Karen Kehela Sherwood, Deepak Nayar, James Bobin, Matt Manfredi (writer/creator) and Phil Hay (writer/creator) serve as executive producers. Showrunners for the series are Darren Swimmer and Todd Slavkin.
The magical teaser trailer for the all-new live-action musical comedy “Disenchanted,” which premiered at the D23 Expo 2022 in the Anaheim Convention Center over the weekend, is here! The eagerly-anticipated sequel to “Enchanted,” which reunites original cast members Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, Idina Menzel, and James Marsden and also stars Maya Rudolph, Gabriella Baldacchino, Yvette Nicole Brown, and Jayma Mays, is directed by Adam Shankman and features new songs from Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz. “Disenchanted” begins streaming November 24, exclusively on Disney+. It has been 15 years since Giselle (Amy Adams) and Robert (Patrick Dempsey) wed, but Giselle has grown disillusioned with life in the city, so they move their growing family to the sleepy suburban community of Monroeville in search of a more fairy tale life. Unfortunately, it isn’t the quick fix she had hoped for. Suburbia has a whole new set of rules and a local queen bee, Malvina Monroe (Maya Rudolph), who makes Giselle feel more out of place than ever. Frustrated that her happily ever after hasn’t been so easy to find, she turns to the magic of Andalasia for help, accidentally transforming the entire town into a real-life fairy tale and placing her family’s future happiness in jeopardy. Now, Giselle is in a race against time to reverse the spell and determine what happily ever after truly means to her and her family. “Disenchanted stars Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, Maya Rudolph, Yvette Nicole Brown, Jayma Mays, Gabriella Baldacchino, with Idina Menzel and James Marsden. Directed by Adam Shankman from a screenplay by Brigitte Hales and a story by J. David Stem & David N. Weiss and Richard LaGravenese, “Disenchanted” is produced by Barry Josephson, Barry Sonnenfeld, and Amy Adams, with Jo Burn, Sunil Perkash, and Adam Shankman serving as executive producers. The movie features songs with music by 8-time Oscar®-winning composer Alan Menken and lyrics by three-time Oscar-winning lyricist Stephen Schwartz, whose work on “Enchanted” garnered three Academy Award® nominations and a score by Alan Menken. Disney’s “Disenchanted” begins streaming November 24, 2022, only on Disney+.
Corinne Furman’s first ever film has just been released in over 600 cinemas across the UK and Ireland. She plays the part of ‘Paige’ in ‘Fisherman’s Friends: One and All’; a ditsy reality star who has just been signed to a record deal. She got to work alongside amazing actors, such as James Purefoy, Maggie Steed, David Hayman, and Imelda May. Following that, she played the leading role of ‘Hope’ in ‘The Hunting of the Snark,’ a feature film directed by Simon Da Vison, alongside Ramon Tikaram. This will be released in the next few months. She also played ‘Maya’ in ‘Rebel Cheer Squad – A Get Even Series’ (Get Even 2), the BBC/Netflix series directed by Nigel Douglas, which is available on Netflix worldwide.
FilmCentral magazine recently caught up with Corinne to discuss her journey in the industry, and here’s what went down:
Can you tell us more about yourself?
My name is Corinne Furman, and I am an actress. I trained from a very young age in dance but fell in love with acting as soon as I started to take acting classes. I was raised in a very animal-orientated family and have travelled worldwide to see incredible wildlife. I absolutely love animals, so I have always been vegetarian (never ever eaten meat), and I am now vegan. My family and friends are very important to me, but my two dogs insist they are the most important!
How did you get started in the entertainment industry?
I started to dance at three years old, and it was always what I enjoyed most. When I was older, I was at dance class nearly every day of the week after school. I then joined a performing arts school when I was nine, and they started showing me the other avenues of the industry (acting/singing). I started taking acting classes every week and absolutely fell in love with it. I realised quickly that I much preferred acting to dancing. The school also had an agency attached, and I started to audition for a few little acting roles. My first ever acting job was a ‘New York Bagels’ advert when I was ten years old, and I remember saying to my mum after that day that acting is what I wanted to do forever.
What do you like most about acting?
It’s not solely the acting I enjoy. The most exciting part for me is being on set – I love doing something different every day, meeting new people, seeing how everything comes together -knowing the months of hard work and preparation prior to filming. In terms of actual acting, I love being able to tell important stories. I think the art of acting is so freeing; you are taken into a place where you can express your emotions and life experiences, good or bad, and channel them into something beautiful. I think acting is so special, in the sense that even if you were doing the same scene, working with different actors would produce different work, as every actor will bring something different to the table.
What are your weak points when it comes to acting? How do you try to improve them?
My main weakness as an actor has been my dyslexia, which may mean I have more trouble initially understanding a script. However, I do believe it means I am a more creative person. I have a very photographic mind; I can see things being played out and the scene as a sort of choreography. I think dyslexia is something that should never hinder an actor but can be used to one’s advantage.
What are your strong points as an actor?
My strong point as an actor is my determination and hard work. I am determined to create the life I want for myself and to be able to do what I love every day. I also believe I am very sociable and find it very easy to get on with most people. This means that I am comfortable working with a whole variety of people.
What have you learned from the directors that you have worked with throughout your career?
Even from a very young age, the directors I’ve worked with were so supportive and inspiring that they’ve reaffirmed to me time and time again that acting is what I want to do forever. I’ve always had the best time on set, and without such amazing directors, it may not have been clear that I wanted to continue on this path. They’ve each taught me different things, but as a collective, they’ve helped me learn always to trust my choices and decisions as an actor and believe in myself.
What are some of the difficulties of the acting business?
The main difficulty is rejection. Also, the determination it takes to get where you want to be. What they say about it not being an easy industry is true, but I guess that’s why so many people give up. I refuse to do anything else; it’s all I think about pretty much every hour of every day – but it is hard sometimes to keep your spirits high, to keep motivated, and keep pushing for it when sometimes it may feel like you’re not getting anywhere with it. I think the times when you’re not working are also super difficult. It’s all I want to be doing.
What’s challenging about bringing a script to life?
I think the most challenging part about bringing a script to life starts with the audition process. Each part within a script can be interpreted in so many ways that it is hard to know what the director/writer/producer has/had in mind. Due to covid, many first-round auditions start with a self-tape (a read-through of a certain scene, by video, done at home), which is then sent directly to the casting directors. Without being in the room with the option of someone asking you to play a part differently, it leaves only your interpretation which you hope hits the mark. I wish we could be given a few directions (play it more subtly, play it more over the top, etc.) which may make the process easier for an actor but obviously a lot longer for casting directors etc.!
What do you do when you’re not filming?
I volunteer for a dog rescue charity in my spare time. They’re called ‘Hungary Hearts Dog Rescue’. We aim to find loving homes for abandoned and neglected dogs on death row in Hungary. We save the dogs from killing stations/the streets in Hungary and bring them to the UK to be homed. It can be heartbreaking at times to see the states that some of the dogs are found in, but it is so rewarding to see them go into their new homes and begin their new lives filled with love. I’ve met such great people along the way, and it’s such a beautiful thing to do. I have two lovely rescue dogs myself who take up a lot of my time, but I love every second I spend with them. They’re the best two little beings that ever came into my life.
What has been the most memorable experience of your career so far?
Hands down, the most memorable and most special experience of my career so far has been attending the ‘Fisherman’s Friends: One and All’ premiere. Seeing myself on the big screen for the first time was so exciting – this was my first ever job after graduating from University, so it was always going to be a really special moment. Hopefully, the first of many more to come! It was great seeing all my fellow cast members again after so long, walking my first ever (little) red carpet, getting my pictures taken, etc. But also, to see the film in its entirety was so special. I felt the pure joy from everyone involved in creating the film throughout the whole cinema, and it made me feel so proud to be part of such an amazing production.
Who have been the most interesting people you’ve met so far?
The person I’ve really connected with the most has been Ramon Tikaram, who is most known for his roles in ‘Game of Thrones’ and ‘Eastenders’. Ramon plays ‘Jez’ in ‘Fisherman’s Friends: One and All’. After ‘Fisherman’s Friends’, we worked on another film called ‘The Hunting of the Snark’. ‘The Hunting of the Snark’ is a Lewis Carroll poem and has been adapted into a film by the amazing director Simon Da Vison. It is to be released in the next few months. Ramon has such an incredible energy and talent. As it was my first job, he knew I’d feel a bit nervous, making me feel super comfortable and welcome. He clearly cares a lot about his fellow cast members and has a really big heart.
If someone is going to make your life into a movie, who would play you?
I would play me! The more acting jobs I can do, the happier I’ll be!
What are your future plans? Inside your career or out of it.
My full focus is on my acting; it’s what I want more than anything in life. I do have a couple of film roles in the pipeline. I want to continue learning, attend acting classes, and do anything I can to grow my craft and become the best actor I can be. I’d also love the opportunity to travel with work. Outside of my career, I want to continue to help to save as many dogs as possible.
If there is anything else or interesting you can tell us
During my time at University, I worked at a day centre for people who are homeless or vulnerably housed. I helped run various activities with their clients, including acting workshops. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I hope in the future, I can use my platform as an actress to help disadvantaged people. I want to help make a difference.
Just recently, Disney+ released a new trailer for season two of “The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers.” The Disney Branded Television series, produced by ABC Signature, will premiere Wednesday, September 28, with new episodes dropping weekly on the streaming service. After winning back the Mighty Ducks team name last year, our squad-with-heart and their coach Alex Morrow (Lauren Graham) take to the road to attend an intense summer hockey institute in California run by charming yet hardcore former NHL player, Colin Cole (Josh Duhamel). It’s a place for kids to get excellent at hockey — without school to get in the way. As our Ducks try to survive in this super-competitive environment, they’re faced with the question: Can you win summer? “The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers” season two stars Lauren Graham and Josh Duhamel with returning cast members Brady Noon, Maxwell Simkins, Swayam Bhatia, Luke Islam, Taegen Burns, and DJ Watts. Naveen Paddock joins the cast as a series regular. The Disney Branded Television series is produced by ABC Signature. Josh Goldsmith and Cathy Yuspa serve as showrunners and executive producers. Additional executive producers include Lauren Graham, George Heller, Brad Petrigala, Jordan Kerner, Jon Avnet and Steve Brill.
Michelle Yeoh as “Yuki” in Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank from Paramount Pictures, Nickelodeon Movies, Align, and Aniventure.
Michael Cera and Samuel L. Jackson are the hilarious Hank and Jimbo.
See them light up the big screen when PAWS OF FURY: THE LEGEND OF HANK hits cinemas these September school holidays.
SYNOPSIS:
A hard-on-his-luck hound Hank (Michael Cera) finds himself in a town full of cats who need a hero to defend them from a ruthless villain’s (Ricky Gervais) evil plot to wipe their village off the map. With help from a reluctant teacher (Samuel L. Jackson) to train him, our underdog must assume the role of town samurai and team up with the villagers to save the day. The only problem… cats hate dogs! Also starring Mel Brooks, George Takei, Aasif Mandvi, Gabriel Iglesias, Djimon Hounsou, Michelle Yeoh, Kylie Kuioka, and Cathy Shim.
CAST:
Michael Cera, Ricky Gervais, Mel Brooks, George Takei, Aasif Mandvi, Gabriel Iglesias,
Djimon Hounsou, Michelle Yeoh, Kylie Kuioka, Cathy Shim and Samuel L. Jackson
Renowned for creating ground-breaking documentaries centred around important social issues, critically acclaimed Australian filmmaker, Thomas Meadmore, (After The Night [The Night Caller], The Spy Who Fell To Earth) is now putting the spotlight on one of the most impactful diseases of our time with his new documentary The Cancer Conflict.
An incredibly powerful feature film, The Cancer Conflict will be released worldwide on 21 September and raises the ultimate question: What would you trust when your life is on the line?
The latest figures from the American Medical Association state that up to up to 90% of cancer patients look for treatment outside of their healthcare system at some point, a decision that doubles the risk of death.
The Cancer Conflict follows both 53 year-old Grant who has been diagnosed with Stage 2 bowel cancer and chooses conventional medical treatment; and 51 year-old Surinder, who has Type 2 breast cancer and opts for a completely natural and alternative route.
Emotional and compelling, the intimate documentary raises questions around how to make informed choices in an online world of misinformation, which couldn’t be more needed or relevant than right now. Impartial at all times, the film also explores the challenges that arise for those looking for miracles, while giving people an informed vicarious experience that can help them on their own journey or allow them to feel seen and understood.
Thomas Meadmore, Creator and Director says: “Almost everyone will be affected by cancer at some point in their lives, either directly or via a loved one. It’s tragic and yet we live in an age where there is so much misinformation online and people don’t know what or who to trust in their plight to survive. The doctor-patient relationship also often lacks compassion, which is something that needs to be addressed in order to build and sustain trust in the evidence-based system. With The Cancer Conflict I wanted to explore the reality of the cancer treatment decision making process with empathy and without judgement, whilst also presenting cold hard facts, and I’m so honoured that Grant and Surinder allowed me to tell their stories.”
Dr Toral Gathani, Oxford University Senior Cancer Research Fellow and Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon, says: “The Cancer Conflict is a beautifully made and incredibly powerful film which tells the story of two cancer patients struggling for different reasons with their diagnoses, and who choose to seek treatment outside of the publicly funded system. For me, the film emphasised how important mutual respect and trust are between healthcare professional and patient when delivering cancer care. In my view, a must see for all those who work with cancer patients.”
The Cancer Conflict is written, directed and produced by Thomas Meadmore through Go Fish Films, with Nic Guttridge on board as Executive Producer and writer.
World Cancer Research Day takes place on 24 September.
The Cancer Conflict will be released globally on 21 September, 2022, available to download on Amazon, iTunes, Google, Xbox and Vimeo.
About Thomas Meadmore
Originally from Perth, Australia, Thomas lives and works in the UK as a director, editor, writer and producer. His 2020 AACTA-nominated Stan Original True Crime Series After The Night [The Night Caller] was a worldwide hit, while his 2019 Netflix documentary feature film The Spy Who Fell to Earth has become a cult favourite in the Middle East. Other past projects include documentaries Fred, Breaking Habits, How to Lose Jobs & Alienate Girlfriends and The Outsider, about the collapse of a multi-billion dollar shipping empire which enjoyed a Bertha Dochouse cinema release and four stars from Total Film magazine.
Alongside directing Thomas is an acclaimed editor who shared an Emmy award (2012) for The Amazing Race Australia and lists National Geographic, Discovery Channel, Channel4 and the BBC among his credits. He was also editor on Salon Pictures’ The Guv’nor, an intimate and revealing portrait of the toughest man in Britain, Lenny McClean. In addition to The Cancer Conflict, next up is a documentary for ITV on missing fraudster Melissa Caddick, and his first fiction feature Ball & Chain which is currently in development.
The Walt Disney Company in Australia and New Zealand has today announced that the Australian Disney+ Original series “Donna Hay Christmas” will premiere globally on platform on 2 November 2022.
In the four-part series premiering exclusively on Disney+, renowned food stylist and cookbook author Donna Hay will guide viewers on how to perfect the elements required for a magical celebration.
In “Donna Hay Christmas”, Donna shares her favourite tips and tricks for the ultimate festive celebration which will provide even the most-seasoned pro with the confidence to create their very own kind of Christmas magic.
From the ultimate glazed ham to a spectacular centrepiece pavlova, Donna shows us how to master her best time-saving tips and styling ideas to maximise your time spent with family and friends. Delicious gifts, a twist on nostalgic classics and contenders for your new festive favourites all come together to create a Christmas celebration like you’ve never seen before.
With long-time collaborator Benjamin Jones directing, the series showcases how Donna spends her Christmas amongst the stunning backdrop of Sydney’s Northern Beaches. “Donna Hay Christmas” is produced by Donna Hay Productions for Disney+.
Host and producer Donna Hay said: “Christmas at my house usually consists of my three favourite things – family, laughter and super-delicious food. It’s these things we all treasure, and it’s what I’ve learnt to focus on when preparing and planning for the big day”.
“This year, through my new series “Donna Hay Christmas” premiering on Disney+, I’ll be bringing you into my world for a Christmas special like no other. I’ll share all of my best tips and tricks, creating show stopping recipes and beautiful food styling ideas that will make for the most delicious, stress-free Christmas yet. Edible gifts are made with love and the planet in mind, and I’ll up the deliciousness and reduce the fuss on all your Christmas favourites, including show-stopping desserts that will put the ‘wow’ in your Christmas celebrations,” she added.
Episode 1 – Deliciously Simple Starters
Welcome to Donna Hay Christmas! In this episode, Donna shares her favourite solutions for fuss-free entertaining throughout the festive season. Watch along as she creates the most delicious lobster sliders with a twist, refreshing drinks that make beautiful gifts, and spectacular edible centrepieces destined to impress.
Episode 2 – The Main Event
In this episode, Donna pulls out all the stops to deliver a menu of the most spectacular Christmas mains. She’ll show you her signature cheat for the ultimate glazed ham, veg-forward sides that steal the show, and her best tips for the perfect roast turkey.
Episode 3 – Show Stopping Desserts
In this episode, Donna creates some of her most show-stopping desserts. Classic favourites like trifle are reimagined with incredible flavour combinations, a tiered cake turns into a miniature Christmas wonderland, and pavlova is given a spectacular makeover into a stunning centrepiece. Prepare to take your festive celebrations to the next level!
Episode 4 – Sweet Treats and Festive Favours
In the final episode of the series, Donna will show you how to turn your favourite sweet treats into beautifully decorated gifts your family and friends will love. Watch as she bakes her easiest, most delicious chocolate chip cookies, a twist on carrot cake like you’ve never seen before, and some of the most irresistible chocolate treats you’ll ever eat. With the help of her friendly neighbourhood elves, no detail is spared for the big day.
“Donna Hay Christmas” is the third title to premiere in Disney+ Australia’s local production slate for 2022/23 consisting of nine titles spanning scripted drama, documentaries, lifestyle and factual entertainment genres.
The four-part series premieres on 2 November only on Disney+
Go behind the scenes with director Parker Finn, star Sosie Bacon and the cast of Smile as they discuss the creation of the psychological terror in the film.
OFFICIAL SYNOPSIS
After witnessing a bizarre, traumatic incident involving a patient, Dr. Rose Cotter (Sosie Bacon) starts experiencing frightening occurrences that she can’t explain. As an overwhelming terror begins taking over her life, Rose must confront her troubling past in order to survive and escape her horrifying new reality.
WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY
Parker Finn
PRODUCED BY
Marty Bowen, Wyck Godfrey, Isaac Klausner, Robert Salerno
EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY
Adam Fishbach
STARRING
Sosie Bacon, Jessie T. Usher, Kyle Gallner, Robin Weigert, Caitlin Stasey with Kal Penn and Rob Morgan
STUDIOCANAL and Working Title Films launch the official trailer for cross-cultural British rom-com WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT?.
Directed by Shekhar Kapur (ELIZABETH) and written by Jemima Khan, WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT? stars the Primetime Emmy® Award nominated Lily James (PAM & TOMMY, BABY DRIVER, DARKEST HOUR, MAMMA MIA! HERE WE GO AGAIN, REBECCA), Shazad Latif (STAR TREK: DISCOVERY, PENNY DREADFUL, PROFILE, TOAST OF LONDON), Shabana Azmi (HALO, FIRE, RELUCTANT FUNDAMENTALIST, IT’S A WONDERFUL AFTERLIFE, CITY OF JOY, MADAME SOUSATZKA), Sajal Aly (YAKEEN KA SAFAR, MOM, ALIF) and Academy Award® and BAFTA winner Emma Thompson (MATILDA, GOOD LUCK TO YOU, LEO GRANDE, CRUELLA, SAVING MR BANKS). The film also stars Asim Chaudhry (BLACK MIRROR: BANDERSNATCH, PEOPLE JUST DO NOTHING, THE ELECTRICAL LIFE OF LOUIS WAIN, THE SANDMAN), Jeff Mirza (ETERNALS, BLINDED BY THE LIGHT), Mim Shaikh (FINDING DAD, INFORMER, PLS LIKE, KING GARY), Iman Boujelouah, Mariam Haque (FINDING ALICE, HOMELAND, FLOWERS) and Sindhu Vee (MATILDA, STARSTRUCK, FEEL GOOD).
The film is produced by Nicky Kentish Barnes (ABOUT TIME, ABOUT A BOY), Jemima Khan (IMPEACHMENT: AMERICAN CRIME STORY, THE CLINTON AFFAIR, THE CASE AGAINST ADNAN SYED, WE STEAL SECRETS: THE STORY OF WIKILEAKS) & her Instinct Productions, alongside Working Title Films’ Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner.
Ivor Novello Lifetime Achievement Award-winning and Mercury Prize nominated composer, Nitin Sawhney CBE has created the music for the film, with British-Pakistani record producer, DJ, songwriter, and musician Naughty Boy bringing his production and writing skills to the soundtrack, alongside three-time BRIT Award and Mercury Prize nominee, Joy Crookes. Kanika Kapoor and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan will also feature on the soundtrack, with Rahat appearing in the film itself.
STUDIOCANAL is fully financing and will release in their own territories – the UK, France, Germany, Australia & New Zealand – and are selling the film worldwide.
The film will receive its World Premiere at the 47th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival, screening as a Gala Presentation at the Roy Thomson Hall on Saturday, 10th September.
WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT? is set to be released in Australian cinemas on January 26th 2023.
Synopsis
How do you find lasting love in today’s world? For documentary-maker and dating app addict Zoe (Lily James), swiping right has only delivered an endless stream of Mr Wrongs, to her eccentric mother Cath’s (Emma Thompson) dismay. For Zoe’s childhood friend and neighbour Kaz (Shazad Latif), the answer is to follow his parents’ example and opt for an arranged (or “assisted”) marriage to a bright and beautiful bride from Pakistan. As Zoe films his hopeful journey from London to Lahore to marry a stranger, chosen by his parents, she begins to wonder if she might have something to learn from a profoundly different approach to finding love.
After She Died follows the story of Jen (Liliana de la Rosa). Jen’s mother has just died. Her relationship with her father, John (Paul Talbot), is fractured beyond repair. Her friends, all recent high school graduates, are moving on with their lives and leaving behind the small town they once called home. Jen is, in every sense of the word, alone. That is until John introduces Jen to his new girlfriend, Florence (Vanessa Madrid)… a woman who looks and sounds identical to Jen’s dead mother.
Jack Dignan is the writer, director, and producer of After She Died. Last year, he put together a team of eager up-and-coming filmmakers to work on this passion project. They made the film for scraps without studio backing or financial investors. Now the film has been sold in North America and will be released on September 30th.
Back in 2020, he was in talks with both local and international studios to get funding for the film. When COVID hit, everyone closed their wallets. Instead of letting this defeat Jack, he put together all his money, worked out how much more he’d need to make the movie and decided to go on and make it himself. There was no guaranteed sale, profit, or release. Still, with a script he was excited about and a talented group of cast and crew, including some of the team behind this year’s WYRMWOOD: APOCALYPSE and classics like FRIDAY THE 13TH PART 8 and MOULIN ROUGE, he was eager to get the film made.
They shot the film over 18 days, with an unfortunately timed 100+ day lockdown starting after shoot day 10, meaning the movie’s second half wasn’t shot until months after the first. But cut to 2022, and the film is done and ready for release. He’s extremely excited to share it with audiences everywhere and let the world experience their little horror movie for themselves. Internationally, the distribution is being handled by Good Deed Entertainment and Cranked Up Films. Australian distribution is yet to be confirmed.
FilmCentral Magazine recently caught up with Jack to discuss After She Died, and here’s what went down:
Who’s the director and producer of the film?
Jack Dignan – Writer / Director / Producer
After accelerating through high school and gaining early access to film school at the age of 16, Jack Dignan has established himself as a writer, director, and producer with a unique style and a fresh voice in genre filmmaking. His recent short films ‘It Feels Like Spring’ and ‘Does Nobody See the Gun?’ have gained global recognition on the festival circuit, with the former now available on ShortsTV and the latter on YouTube.
Jack began his career as a well-regarded Australian film journalist, publishing written reviews across multiple platforms while working on his own DIY short films. In the leadup to his feature-length directorial debut ‘After She Died’, Jack spent years working on high-profile Hollywood productions, such as ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’, ‘Furiosa’, ‘Elvis’, ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ and more. He’s collaborated and worked with numerous Oscar winners and brings that knowledge and experience into his own filmmaking career.
Rhys William Nicolson – Co-Producer / Cinematographer
Rhys William Nicolson is an award-winning Cinematographer, Director, and Producer. He’s worked throughout broadcast at ABC and Channel NINE, at multiple production houses, and throughout feature, commercial, and narrative productions. His true passion is in narrative and creative content as a Director and Cinematographer, with recent screenings at Flickerfest and St Kilda, as well as numerous commercial projects and productions. He’s also received several awards for his Directing of the Psychological Thriller Pseudomonas.’ He’s also recently produced award-winning Music Videos for Amy Shark, Blasterjaxx, and several others. Rhys considers himself a chameleon of the creative industry.
Most recently, he’s been an Executive Producer and 2nd Unit Director on the recently released feature, ‘Wyrmwood: Apocalypse’, released in cinemas Feb 2022, and was a Co-Producer and Cinematographer on ‘After She Died’. With Wyrmwood: Apocalypse and portions of After She Died having been filmed on location at Rhys’ family property, now converted from Orchard to backlot, he hopes to help facilitate future indie projects in a similar way and continue to shoot meaningful, impactful, and entertaining content. He’s most recently landed a producer role at the publisher, LADbible, hoping to perpetuate and create more meaningful content, focusing on spreading the stories and truth of marginalised individuals living in oppression. He’s also been working alongside several First Nation’s creatives on a new series focused on Indigenous-Australian mythology based in a post-modern setting, which has just been greenlit.
Who is your main cast?
Liliana de la Rosa – Jen
Liliana de la Rosa (credited in the movie as Liliana Ritchie) is an emerging Spanish Filipino-Australian Actress and Singer based in Sydney, Australia. She had her Professional Theatre debut in the Australian Play ‘Blue Murder’ (2018) after graduating High School on the Gold Coast, Queensland and was awarded the 71st Barbara Sisley Award in 2017 for receiving the highest Speech and Drama examination score with Trinity College London (AMEB). She recently starred as ‘Gloria’ in the 2022 Stage Play ‘Sex Shop,’ written and directed by Jake Moss at the Brisbane Arts Theatre, and featured as the Lead in Short Film ‘Dug Your Grave’ (2020), which was a part of the Sunshine Coast Screen Collective Film initiative with Screen QLD. She was the Lead in Television Mini-Series ‘Now More Than Ever,’ (2020) and has also wrapped as one of the lead Actor’s in Newcastle Indie Film ‘The Savvy Bedlam Boarding House’ produced by Ten Coat Productions.
She has trained professionally in the Performing Arts across multiple Australian Drama Schools since the age of 10 and is also currently working with world-renowned Actor and Coach Les Chantery, Casting Director and Mentor – Tom Mcsweeney, and with Anthony Meindl’s AMAW Sydney. She has skills across the board that include Singing, Writing, Directing, Photography, Track and Field, and a variety of other sports. Taping for Lead TV and Film roles across Australia and America, Liliana is an up-and-coming young Actress to definitely keep an eye out for.
Vanessa Madrid – Isabel / Florence
Vanessa Madrid is an actor and stunt woman with a Bachelor of International Development Studies from the Australian Catholic University. She’s recently wrapped on multiple feature films, including the lead role in the psychological thriller ‘Mercy of Others,’ a supporting role in ‘Lickerish,’ and dual roles in the horror film ‘After She Died,’ where she showcased what a chameleon she can be. In 2021, Vanessa appeared in the second season of the Stan original series ‘Bump,’ and the short film Wrath,’ which is a finalist in many festivals around the world. She’s appeared in several TVCs as both an actor and stunt double, and she recently wrote/directed/starred in her own short film ‘Survival of the Fittest.’ Vanessa has had the pleasure of working on two different docu-series, ‘Deadly Women’ and ‘The Invisibles,’ and is currently working on the Australian TV series ‘Pervert’ in a lead role. Later this year, Vanessa will be playing a lead role in an action drama feature film ‘Syndicate‘. Vanessa honed her skills at the Actors Pulse, is currently studying at the Sydney Acting Studio, and continues her ongoing stunt training with Ray Anthony at Stunt Action Consultants.
Paul Talbot – John
Paul Talbot began his acting career strong, receiving two nominations for best performance at Bond University Qld for his stage roles as Argus in ‘Good Knight Reverie’ and Bradley in ‘The Picnic’. He was also awarded best performance in the 2018 QSFT Awards Night for his lead role in ‘Mirror Mirror’. From here, he continued to catch the attention of audiences in ‘Eleventh Day’ as Robert Hodgeson, and the comedic role Dick in ‘Dick’s Desolate Destinations’, a parody showcasing his natural comedic abilities. It was not till his two theatre roles in ‘Looking for Love’ (David, the Reverend) and ‘Helpless the Bittersweet’ (Joe, SUNPAC Qld), both sold-out venues, that proved his versatility as an actor. His continuing rise has secured him supporting roles as Varg in the TV series ‘Nightingale Lonely Melodies’, Michael in ‘Company Policy’, Pete in ABC TV series ‘Born to Spy’ and John in the feature ‘After She Died’.
Other cast members include Adam Golledge (The Longest Weekend), Barbara Bingham (Deadhouse Dark, Friday the 13th Jason Takes Manhattan), Greg Poppleton (The Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader), Cassandre Girard (Thor: Love and Thunder), Lorry D’Ercole (Moulin Rouge!) and newcomers Annabelle Andrew, Noah Fowler and Mariah Stock.
What inspired the story? How did it come about?
Jack Dignan: The story of After She Died came to me, admittedly, after a weekend spent binging old episodes of the Twilight Zone and a bunch of Asian horror movies, such as Audition and A Tale of Two Sisters. I loved the style, look, and atmosphere of those films, and I had this idea blossom about a father introducing his daughter to his new girlfriend and the girlfriend looking exactly like the daughter’s dead mother. I wanted to take the style and approach of those Asian horror movies I loved so much and apply it to the little story idea I had in mind. So I got writing and three years later, after a lot of hard work and endless nights crying myself to sleep, After She Died was completed!
What makes this story unique and why should people watch it?
Jack Dignan: After She Died is horror through the uncanny. The story begins in deliberately familiar territory – a broken family dynamic, grieving protagonists, a character seemingly brought back from the dead – but, without giving away the film’s twists and turns, audiences will gradually discover that the real story of After She Died isn’t what it first appeared to be. All those familiar beats and setups gradually get turned on their head, subverting expectations in the most gruesome and terrifying ways. It’ll dig right under your skin and won’t let you go!
What was the production process like?
Jack Dignan: Unorthodox (laughs)! We made this film in the most indie way possible – raising the money ourselves through private funding and an abundance of favours. A lot of the crew were people Rhys, and I knew or had worked with before who were willing to come on board and help bring my vision to life. It was shot fast and cheap, but never at the expense of quality. We had 18 days to shoot it, and we moved at a million miles an hour. The images, sounds, and performances on screen are, in my totally biased opinion, sensational, and despite a challenging production, I’m beyond happy with the final product. Every dollar we had was put onto the screen.
What was the most challenging part of bringing the project to light?
Jack Dignan: The biggest challenge was just getting to that first day of shooting. All I wanted for so many years was to get to that first day. I knew that once we started shooting, no matter what unexpected challenges came our way afterward, there would be no turning back. We had to commit. But until the cameras start rolling, anything goes. Thankfully, those cameras rolled.
Did anything funny or exceptional happen on set?
Jack Dignan: It was greatly speculated that the house we were shooting in was a haunted house. Much of this film takes place in our lead character’s house, and a few of us crew members lived in this house during filming. At night, we’d hear things (or people!) moving about in the dark, lights would turn on, gates would open, and one night our behind-the-scenes photographer Nicole even saw a dark figure wandering the upstairs hallway… while all of us were hanging out downstairs. I’ve got so many stories of spooky shenanigans happening in that house. Maybe there’s a movie to be made from them…
Are there any great achievements from your cast or crew you want to mention?
Jack Dignan: So many! I’m so proud of all the cast and crew, and I could talk about them endlessly. Rhys William Nicolson, our cinematographer, and co-producer, just released my favourite movie of the year so far – Wyrmwood: Apocalypse! Definitely check that one out. Adam Golledge, who plays Louis, just sold out multiple sessions at Sydney Film Festival for his new film The Longest Weekend! Noah Fowler, who plays The Sheep-Man, just starred in a hilarious new play in Sydney. Paul Talbot, who plays John, keeps popping up in a new ad every time I open Facebook. The list goes on and on! I could talk about them all, but we sadly don’t have the time. They’re a talented bunch, though, that’s for sure.
What is the next step for the project?
Jack Dignan: The film comes out in North America on September 30, thanks to the fine folk at Cranked Up Films and Good Deed Entertainment, which is very exciting. The next step is getting the film released here in Australia, so I can finally prove to my family that this passion project of mine is real and not some scheme to steal all their money/investments.
Has it won any awards or had any big achievements yet?
Jack Dignan: Several Academy Awards, including Best Picture!
If you could redo anything in the process or the film itself, what would it be?
Jack Dignan: That’s a tough question! The film’s too fresh in my mind and close to my heart for me to answer that. Maybe I’ll be able to give you a better answer in five years. But I will say that I learned a lot about filmmaking, what works and what doesn’t work, and how to tell a narrative across 100 minutes, and I hope to take all this knowledge with me into my next movie.
