2023 CGA Award Winners Announced

The Casting Guild of Australia celebrated its 9th annual CGA Awards on Friday evening at a ceremony at Establishment Hotel, Sydney hosted by Julia Zemiro and Genevieve Hegney.

Leading the 2023 CGA Awards was Danny Long, who took home three awards at the ceremony; her work in Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge earned her the award for ‘Best Casting in a Short Film’, alongside ‘Best Casting in a TVC – Community’ for Qantas It Feels Like Home Again and for ‘Achievement in Casting’ for Latecomers.

Anousha Zarkesh picked up the award for ‘Best Casting in a Feature Film’ for the second year in a row for her work on Shayda.

The casting team behind Shantaram, Alison Telford, Kate Leonard, Kate Dowd (UK Casting) and Nikki Barrett (Original Casting), scooped up the award for ‘Best Casting in a TV Drama’, with Kirsty McGregor and Stevie Ray taking out ‘Best Casting in a TV Comedy’ for Colin From Accounts.

Nathan Lloyd won ‘Best Casting in a Telemovie/Miniseries’ for Safe Home while newcomer Rhys Velasquez took out the award for ‘Best Casting in a Theatre Production’ for their work on Choir Boy.

First-time winner Faith Martin took home ‘Achievement in Casting’ for her work on Barrumbi Kids and Natalie Jane Harvie secured the top prize in ‘Best Casting in a TVC’ for the Telstra ‘This is Footy Country’ campaign.

The CGA also officially crowned Australia’s top emerging talent of 2023, highlighting twelve extraordinary actors with the potential to break out on the world stage.

This year’s CGA Rising Stars include Ben Turland (Riptide, Neighbours), Bernie van Tiel (Class of ’07, Blaze), Carlos Sanson Jr (Sweet As, Bump), Costa D’Angelo (Crazy Fun Park, Wog Boys), Emma Harvie (Colin From Accounts, In Limbo), Kartanya Maynard (Deadloch, The Messenger), Natalie Abbott (Aftertaste, A Perfect Pairing), Nathalie Morris (Bump, Petrol), Perry Mooney (Gold Diggers, Romance on the Menu), Raj Labade (Appetite, The Office Australia), William Lodder (Love Me S2, Bali 2002), and William McKenna (The Messenger, Queen of Oz).

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

‘MEAN GIRLS’ Is Back With A Fresh Spin And An Awesome Cast!

In the dynamic realm of high school dynamics, the eagerly awaited film “MEAN GIRLS,” a brainchild of Tina Fey’s creative genius, offers a contemporary twist to the cherished modern classic. The official trailer, teaser poster, and a glimpse into 10 captivating images unveil a stellar cast, featuring Angourie Rice as Cady Heron, Auli’i Cravalho as Janis ‘Imi’ike, Reneé Rapp as Regina George, Jaquel Spivey as Damian Hubbard, Avantika as Karen Shetty, Bebe Wood as Gretchen Wieners, Christopher Briney as Aaron Samuels, Jenna Fischer as Ms. Heron, Busy Philipps as Mrs. George, Ashley Park as Madame Park, Tina Fey as Ms. Norbury, and Tim Meadows as Mr. Duvall, among others.

The storyline follows Cady Heron, portrayed by Angourie Rice, as she steps into the intricate world of high school social dynamics. Embraced by the coveted group known as “The Plastics,” led by the cunning Regina George (Reneé Rapp) and her loyal companions Gretchen (Bebe Wood) and Karen (Avantika), Cady’s journey takes an unexpected turn when she becomes entangled with Regina’s ex-boyfriend, Aaron Samuels (Christopher Briney). This romantic misstep propels Cady into the crosshairs of Regina’s schemes.

Guided by her outcast allies Janis (Auli’i Cravalho) and Damian (Jaquel Spivey), Cady maneuvers the complexities of high school life, aiming to dismantle the apex predator that is Regina George. The narrative captures the essence of staying true to oneself in the challenging jungle of high school.

“MEAN GIRLS,” presented by Paramount Pictures and produced by Broadway Video/Little Stranger Production, is executive produced by Jeff Richmond, Nell Benjamin, Eric Gurian, Erin David, and Pamela Thur. Producers Lorne Michaels and Tina Fey, with Tina Fey contributing the book, Jeff Richmond providing the music, and Nell Benjamin crafting the lyrics, lead the creative team. Based on the stage musical “MEAN GIRLS,” Tina Fey pens the screenplay, while the film is directed by Samantha Jayne and Arturo Perez Jr.

With a stellar cast, including talents like Angourie Rice, Auli’i Cravalho, Reneé Rapp, Jaquel Spivey, Avantika, Bebe Wood, Christopher Briney, Jenna Fischer, Busy Philipps, Tina Fey, with Tim Meadows, the film promises to breathe new life into this reimagined classic on the big screen. Brace yourself for the captivating world of “MEAN GIRLS” as it unfolds its laughter, drama, and timeless lessons in the hallways of high school.

Local Star Kya Stewart Takes the Stage in the Thrilling Fourth Season of World Monologue Games!

Once again, the global stage illuminates the realm of acting as World Monologue Games, the preeminent event of its kind, returns triumphantly for its highly anticipated fourth season. Among the outstanding talents selected for this year’s Regional Finals is Sydney’s own gifted actor, Kya Stewart, adding a local flair to this international showcase that brings together the finest performers from over 100 countries.

Unfazed by the industry disruptions, Kya courageously submitted an entry to the prestigious World Monologue Games, often dubbed the Olympics for Actors by the media. This spirited competition, spanning six distinct categories, sees thousands of international performers vying for a coveted spot on the podium.

Kya’s excitement upon being selected for the esteemed event’s Regional Finals is palpable. “Participating in this year’s World Monologue Games fills me with incredible excitement,” says Kya. “As I represent Australia, I’m joining a league of remarkable performers from around the world. The anticipation for my upcoming performance is electric.”

Initiated in 2020 by the visionary Australian producer Pete Malicki, World Monologue Games continues to grow from strength to strength. Looking ahead to this fourth season, Malicki says, “The calibre of submissions has soared, with judges noting a marked rise in quality. I’m eagerly awaiting the showcase of talents that the finest actors from numerous countries will bring to this year’s Games.”

Kya will be performing a captivating monologue about a distinct and touching personal memory she shares with her late Grandmother. Reflecting on the experience, Kya added, “I’m so excited to represent Australia in the games and to share a simple, yet meaningful, monologue about the power of love, human connection, and the way it shapes our lives”.

Tune in to the live stream of the Regional Finals where performers will compete for both cash prizes and the honour of gracing the podium at the Global Finals in November. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unparalleled event:

Production Commences on ‘The Sloth Lane’: A Heartwarming Addition to the Tales From Sanctuary City Franchise

In a groundbreaking partnership, Like A Photon Creative, alongside Sola Media, proudly announces the initiation of production for ‘The Sloth Lane.’ This delightful addition to the beloved Tales From Sanctuary City franchise unfolds a touching narrative of self-discovery, family bonds, and enduring friendships.

As an Australian and female-owned production house, Like a Photon Creative takes the helm in bringing this animated gem to life, while Sola Media secures its distribution, having recently acquired international rights for the next trio of animated features within the Sanctuary City franchise.

The film boasts a dynamic cast of stellar talents, blending Australian and international flair. Leslie Jones, the renowned stand-up comedian (known for Ghostbusters, The Angry Birds Movie 2, and Sing), lends her voice to Dotti Pace, a clever and ambitious cheetah. Teo Vergara embodies the excitable and energetic sloth, Laura, while Olivia Vásquez voices Gabby, Laura’s mother. Ben Gorroño brings Luis, the big lovable sloth, to life, and Facundo Herrera gives voice to Mani, the ‘most sloth’ of the family. Remy Hii takes on the role of Platy, the Platypus technician, and Matteo Romaniuk voices Arlo, a short-beaked Kiwi with boundless optimism.

Sola Media will showcase initial materials to international buyers at the AFM, expressing anticipation for the audience to meet the adorable family of sloths. Solveig Langeland, Managing Director of Sola Media, remarks, “Their journey to the fast-paced world of Sanctuary City with their slow food truck entertains with humor, emotions, and a timely message. We are expecting international buyers to move fast on our slow sloths.”

Synopsis of ‘The Sloth Lane’:

“The Sloth Lane” unfolds the story of Laura, a swift 12-year-old sloth, and her uniquely odd sloth family, left devastated by a storm that destroys their family restaurant and only home. Forced to embark on a journey with their rickety old food truck, the family heads to Sanctuary City.

Armed with generations-perfected family recipes, their food truck becomes a huge success, catching the attention of the snappy entrepreneur, Dotti Pace. Deceived into giving up their secret recipes, this tight-knit family of sloths must defy the odds to reclaim their beloved recipe book.

Combining heartwarming coming-of-age elements with an action-packed thriller, ‘The Sloth Lane’ urges its audience to savor life’s delicious, funny, and wonderful moments.

Through intricate handcrafted 3D art, the captivating story of Laura and her family is poised to enchant audiences globally.

Produced by Kristen Souvlis, Nadine Bates, and Ryan Greaves, and directed by Tania Vincent & Ricard Cussó, the film is supported by Screen Queensland’s PDV funding and financier Alceon Entertainment.

Media Release sent by Lily Maxwell of Feature Communications

Dates Announced for Annual Casting Guild of Australia Awards Ceremony

The annual Casting Guild of Australia (CGA) Awards Ceremony is moving to Sydney this year, with the prestigious invite only event to be held at Establishment Hotel on Friday 24 November. Nominees for the awards are set to be announced early-November.

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, advertising, theatre and online content. The annual Awards Ceremony seeks to acknowledge and support the critical role casting directors play in bringing together great casting opportunities both on a national and international stage.

2023 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 2023 CGA Rising Stars will also be announced early-November with recipients set to be interviewed by some of Australia’s top casting directors on CGA’s social pages in the lead up to the official presentation on November 24.

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

Unveiling the Excitement: Disney+ Drops Teaser Trailer for Aussie Original “The Artful Dodger”

Disney+ has just pulled back the curtain on the key art and teaser trailer for its upcoming Australian Original series, “The Artful Dodger.” Brace yourselves because this eight-episode extravaganza is all set to premiere Down Under on November 29, exclusively on Disney+.

What’s the Buzz? “The Artful Dodger” dives deep into the double life of Charles Dickens’ famed prince of thieves, Jack Dawkins, aka The Artful Dodger. Picture this: nimble pickpocketing hands transforming into the skilled hands of a surgeon. This gripping tale unfolds in the vibrant colony of Port Victory in 1850s Australia.

The Plot Twist: Dodger’s past resurfaces with the arrival of Fagin, enticing him back into the world of crime. But the real curveball comes in the form of Lady Belle, the Governor’s daughter, aspiring to become the colony’s first female surgeon. From heists to life-and-death surgeries, and the harsh realities of crime mixing with the middle ground and gentry, get ready for a narrative of reinvention, betrayal, redemption, and love with a twist.

Meet the Stars: The eight-episode series boasts a stellar cast, including Thomas Brodie-Sangster as The Artful Dodger, David Thewlis as Fagin, and Maia Mitchell as Lady Belle Fox. Joining this all-star lineup are Damon Herriman, Tim Minchin, Miranda Tapsell, Susie Porter, Damien Garvey, Kym Gyngell, Vivienne Awosoga, along with New Zealand talent Albert Latailakepa, and more.

Behind the Scenes: “The Artful Dodger” is a collaborative effort with Sony Pictures Television’s Curio Pictures and Beach Road Pictures. Created by James McNamara, David Maher & David Taylor, the show is in good hands with executive producers Jo Porter (Curio Pictures), David Maher, and David Taylor (Beach Road Pictures). The production team is completed by Jeffrey Walker as Set-Up Director and directors Corrie Chen and Gracie Otto.

A Global Treat: Hold your breath because this captivating series will also be available for streaming on Hulu in the U.S. starting November 29th.

So, mark your calendars and get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions, cunning plots, and unexpected twists with “The Artful Dodger” on Disney+. It’s an Australian original that’s bound to leave you on the edge of your seat!

Introducing Bella Glanville: A Multifaceted Force In The Entertainment Industry

In the ever-evolving entertainment industry landscape, few individuals encapsulate versatility and talent as seamlessly as Bella Glanville. An award-winning actress, accomplished writer, international model, and four-time TED speaker, Glanville’s multifaceted career is a testament to her indomitable spirit and creative prowess.

Standout performances in various noteworthy productions mark Glanville’s presence on the small screen. Notably, she graces the Netflix series ‘A Whole Lifetime,’ portraying the character of Georgina, a role that showcases her depth as an actress. Her charisma extends to the hit series ‘Ted Lasso,’ where she takes on the role of Richard’s girlfriend, adding nuance and charm to the narrative. Further expanding her repertoire, Glanville secures a role in Netflix’s ‘Geek Girl,’ teasing audiences with her diverse acting range.

Adding a layer of intrigue, Glanville embraces a role under a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) in a well-known blockbuster, heightening anticipation and solidifying her status as an actress trusted with the industry’s best-kept secrets. Her leading role in the upcoming film ‘Deadly Perfect,’ set to premiere in 2023, is poised to captivate audiences and further establish her as a force to be reckoned with in the cinematic realm.

Beyond the silver screen, Glanville proves her mettle in filmmaking with the critically acclaimed short film ‘Push.’ Serving as co-producer and lead actress, she catapults the film into the limelight, earning accolades at prestigious events like the New York Cinematography Awards and the London Film Festival. Her foray into producing underscores her commitment to projects that push creative boundaries and resonate with audiences on a global scale.

Stepping into the role of a TV presenter, Glanville recently hosted the 2023 Urban Music Awards, demonstrating her ability to transition between different facets of the entertainment world seamlessly. Her magnetic stage presence and adept hosting skills contributed to the event’s success, showcasing her versatility beyond acting and filmmaking.

In the fashion realm, Glanville has graced the world’s most prestigious runways and campaigns. With modeling credits that include global brands like Adidas, Stella McCartney, Topshop, Nike, and Vogue, she not only embodies elegance and style but also serves as a sought-after face in the fashion industry.

Beyond the glitz and glamour, Glanville shares her insights and perspectives on diverse topics through the TEDx platform. With four international TEDx talks to her credit, she delves into themes ranging from ‘The Myth of Perfection’ to ‘The Science of Online Dating.’ Her ability to articulate complex ideas with poise and intelligence adds another layer to her public persona, establishing her as a thought leader in addition to her roles in the creative arts.

FilmCentral Magazine recently caught up with Bella to discuss her journey in the industry, and here’s what went down:

Can you tell us more about yourself?

Of course! I’m an actress and screenwriter, currently based in London, but I plan to relocate to LA in the new year. I’m probably best known for my role as Georgina in Jamie Demetriou’s Netflix show, but I’m often recognised from other shows like Netflix’s Sexy Beasts (which was hilarious to be a part of). In terms of my writing, I filmed the pilot for my own sitcom this year, which is very exciting! We are now in the pitching stages. I am now also working on a feature. I was doing cabaret work alongside acting for a while, and I am now doing professional speaking instead. I have given a few TED talks (my favourite being in America) because I want to use my platform in this industry to make a difference and spread a message.

How did you get started in the entertainment industry?

It’s an unusual answer, but I kind of grew up in this world because my parents were opera singers. I had such a love for musical theatre growing up. When I was a young teenager, I started up a foundation to help kids build confidence, particularly after I had had to learn to do the same thing. I got into that after attending a lot of Tony Robbins events as a kid and eventually becoming a professional speaker myself. The crazy part is that the day I gave my first-ever workshop on self-love was also the day I got scouted to be a model. I spent the next few years modelling, starting out as one of Milk Management’s first-ever models. I then modelled out in Paris, Australia, and Miami for a bit, before returning to the UK. I always did musical theatre whenever I could, but I couldn’t ignore my passion for film. In 2017, I started auditioning for features and writing my own shorts. My degree slowed down the amount I could put into acting, but I occasionally performed in musicals and continued modelling and doing commercials. I got an acting agent in 2020 when I filmed my first feature, of which I was the lead, and the rest is history!

Did you ever use your acting skills in modelling?

Yes, I once did a bridal shoot as a teenager, and I will always remember the make-up artist telling me that I had the ‘face of an actress.’ It was really when I first considered it. They often cast actors in modelling jobs because they need specific emotions or body language expressed. An example of when I did this was for Harlan Coben’s book cover for ‘Runaway’, where I had to play Paige. They threw a lot of powerful acting exercises at me in the casting, even though it was deemed a ‘modelling job.’ I also always wanted to model for Coca-Cola and ended up being the hero in their commercial instead! That was amazing.

With your parents being opera singers, have you ever done any performing or roles together?

My mum actually called me one day with a short film idea, and I knew it would do well. I helped her adapt it to a screenplay and produce it. We both acted in it, and I can proudly say that our short film, ‘Push’, has now won numerous film festivals, including the New York Cinematography Awards and the London Film Festival.

In terms of singing, well.. my mum and I love singing around the kitchen. We once surprised my cousin at his wedding and did a duet together. I’m really lucky to have her as my coach. As for my dad, he is in a band and sometimes he brings me onto stage to sing with him.

Sometimes I do have to do self-tapes with my family. They’re always chaotic, but I love them! We once landed a charity commercial together.

What do you like most about acting?

My degree was in psychology, so I love the fact that I can really get inside the mind of someone else. I have never played a character who is ‘just like me.’ Every character I have played is different, and I love exploring the interests, emotions, and character traits of a completely different person. The more different a character is to me, the more I enjoy playing them. I enjoy a challenge. Or when it comes to theatre, nothing makes me feel more alive than standing on stage and belting out a heart-wrenching ballad, like when I played Jovie in Elf the Musical.

You have done some TV presenting too. Have you had a favourite experience?

Definitely. Working with Louis Theroux, hosting the Urban Music Awards. He is an absolute legend.

How different is it to act in a movie and to act in a TV series? And which one do you prefer?

That is a really interesting question… They have a lot of similarities and a lot of differences too. Of course, most shows and features are filmed in a different order from what is seen on screen. But overall, my experience in both has pretty much been the same. Big blockbuster films are more likely to have huge sets and green screens the size of a small town, and a hundred cameras planted around, which you might be less likely to get in something like.. a soap opera.

Generally, I love acting in both. There isn’t a single role that I have done in which I haven’t loved every second of filming.

Do you have any funny stories about being recognised?

I have a great one for this. Whenever someone approaches me in public and remembers me from somewhere, but I don’t remember who they are, I politely say, ‘Oh my god! I haven’t seen you in so long. Where did I last see you again?’ because that helps me figure it out without admitting I have no clue who this person is. Anyway, I was in Freedom in Soho, and this girl saw me and said, ‘Oh my god! It’s you!’. I didn’t recognise her but assumed we knew each other, so I pulled my classic ‘pretending to know them’ line. She then said, ‘No. We’ve never met. I just recognise you from A Whole Lifetime.’ It was so embarrassing – but also flattering!

What are your weak points when it comes to acting? How do you try to improve them?

This is really specific, but I did have to practice learning how to cry on screen. I have definitely mastered it now, and I am really proud of that! But I used to really overthink it – and that was where I was going wrong because when you cry in a scene, you should completely clear your head beforehand, and just go into the scene, as that character, in that moment.

What are your strong points as an actor?

I’d say my biggest strong points are accents, accumulating emotions, using psychology, and being natural. My party trick is doing accents (my favourite being Russian). I also love monologues where a character really builds up their emotions until they finally break. In terms of using psychology, it definitely helps to have a perspective that makes me stand out from others. There was one time I shot a movie that had a schizophrenic character. I actually spoke to the director and told him that some of the script was inaccurate, based on knowledge that I had acquired in my degree. The last thing I mentioned – being natural – is SO important. I was once told by a casting director that too many actors ‘act on top of the lines’, rather than ‘letting the lines do the acting for them’. And that really stuck with me. Everything on camera has to be so natural and minimal because the camera makes everything bigger.

What have you learned from the directors that you have worked with throughout your career?

Take your time with lines without mumbling them. Be super clear with what you are saying so the audience can understand.

If your co-actor behaves in a way you do not expect, just react. Bounce off it. Acting is about re-acting.

If you are thrown off by a new script in an audition, keep eye contact as much as you can with the other reader. Look at your lines only when they are saying theirs.

Reaching a final and not getting the role is often just because you don’t ‘look right’ next to the actor already cast. It’s rarely on your talent.

ALWAYS build your own heat. Don’t wait around for your agent to call you.

What are some of the difficulties of the acting business?

Ha – where to start! This is an industry where we are literally in competition with countless people every day. And I think it makes or breaks you. My way of conquering this is never to compare myself with anyone else. Instead, I think of who I was yesterday and how to be a better version of myself. Another thing is that people will often tell you that they will ‘make you a star.’ Never believe them until you see a contract!

What’s challenging about bringing a script to life?

If you look at a script, you’ll see that it often gives you nothing and that the lines are entirely up to YOUR interpretation of them until the director comes in. Lines can look very bland sometimes. A really good example is The Office. Look at the pilot of that, and then look at the way Steve Carrell plays Michael Scott. It’s insane! It is almost like a different script, even though he is literally saying the lines as they are written. So you have to decide who your character is and make them use the lines rather than read them. It seems obvious, but you must trust that your interpretation is correct.

What do you do when you’re not filming?

I lead a rather busy life! As I said, building your own heat is really important. So, I spend a lot of time writing, creating, producing, etc. I also sometimes email casting directors, catch up with my agent, have meetings surrounding the sitcom I wrote, go to the gym, hang out with friends, etc… My job is my passion, and it’s how I have fun.

What has been the most memorable experience of your career so far?

Oh, there have been so many. I remember being on the train and getting a call from my agent to say that I had been cast in A Whole Lifetime. I was on the train, so I had to stop myself from squealing! Filming on Ted Lasso was also amazing. The cast was so much fun. In terms of my craziest experience, nothing will outdo Sexy Beats. Wearing prosthetics and being a dinosaur (in public) is something I’ll never get to do again.

– Who have been the most interesting people you’ve met so far?

Paul Rudd is exactly who you would expect him to be – just the loveliest, bubbliest guy. I loved working with him. I obviously loved working with Sian Clifford and Jamie Demetriou as well. Working with people you have admired for a while is lovely. Funny story – Fleabag was written next door to me by Phoebe and my neighbour, Harry Bradbeer. Sian and I also got trained at the same theatre, and Phoebe and I went to the same school! Although, when I met Sian, I didn’t recognise her at first because she had that hilarious wig on. They did such a great job on the makeup of that show. Also, I told Jamie Demetriou that he inspired my brother to become an estate agent after he watched Stath Lets Flats. He was so confused, understandably. (laughs)

Another person, not that I have worked with her was Billie Eilish. We met in a bar a few months ago in LA. My best friend and I really wanted to speak to her, so I suggested that my friend mention the fact that we were all vegan. Drunk and flustered, my best friend went up to Billie and confidently said, ‘We’re the reason you’re vegan.’ She meant to say it the other way around, and luckily, Billie found it really funny. She then gave me a recommendation for a vegan restaurant for my birthday! Lovely girl.

If someone is going to make your life into a movie, who would play you?

Margot Robbie. My idol. My brother actually once bought me a cardboard cutout of her (laughs)!

What are your future plans? Inside your career or out of it.

The thing about future plans is that I only want to achieve them because of the feeling I will get from achieving them: being cast in Marvel, having my show filmed in LA, etc. So, I always believe that I am striving for a feeling rather than the goal itself. And my ultimate outcome is just always to be fulfilled. That way, I can always say that I am achieving my ultimate outcome every day.

Stan Unveils Blue Carpet Extravaganza at Sydney Opera House for World Premiere of CAUGHT

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Stan, the leading Australian streaming service, rolled out the blue carpet at the iconic Sydney Opera House for the world premiere of the highly anticipated Stan Original Series, CAUGH*T. The glamorous event, graced by a star-studded ensemble, showcased the vibrancy of the Australian Original production.

Stan Ambassadors Renee Bargh and Beau Ryan took center stage as they charismatically hosted the blue carpet, welcoming a dazzling array of industry luminaries and esteemed guests. Among the distinguished attendees were chief executive Martin Kugeler, commissioners and executive producers Cailah Scobie and Amanda Duthie, and head of acquisitions Les Sampson, underscoring the significance of the project within the Australian entertainment landscape.

The prestigious guest list extended to Nine Entertainment Group head of drama Andy Ryan, director of communications Vic Buchan, entertainment reporter Richard Wilkins, strategy executives Alex Needs and Jake Mitchell, and head of digital content Immy Abdullah. The collective presence of these influential figures highlighted the magnitude of CAUGH*T in the realm of Australian content.

Series director, producer, writer, and actor Kick Gurry, the driving force behind the production, graced the premiere, radiating enthusiasm for his latest venture. The blue carpet event reached new heights of glamour with the attendance of an A-list cast, including Bryan Brown, Ben O’Toole, Lincoln Younes, Alexander England, Mel Jarnson, Fayssal Bazzi, Rebecca Breeds, Erik Thomson, Rob Carlton, Jeremy Lindsay Taylor, Justine Clarke, Karl Stefanovic, Ariel Donoghue, and Silvia Colloca.

Caught Synopsis:

Mistaken for Americans, the characters find themselves captured by freedom fighters (Bazzi, Jarnson, and Nkono) and are compelled to produce a hostage video that swiftly goes viral. As the soldiers unexpectedly attain celebrity status on social media, they come to the realization that being caught might just be the best thing that could’ve happened to them. Prepare for a riveting journey as they make search history in this captivating Stan Original Series.

CAUGH*T promises to be a groundbreaking addition to Stan’s repertoire, delivering an innovative and compelling narrative that captures the essence of contemporary storytelling. Don’t miss the gripping tale as it unfolds exclusively on Stan.

Neeson Shines in “Retribution”: A Taut Hostage Drama that Packs a Punch

In the world of action thrillers, Liam Neeson has carved a niche for himself as a reliable and commanding presence. His latest venture, “Retribution,” promises a gripping hostage drama that unfolds within the confines of a car, pushing the boundaries of tension and suspense. As audiences buckle up for this high-stakes ride, Neeson’s portrayal of Matt Turner, a dedicated bank executive thrust into a life-altering situation, takes center stage.

A Familiar Tale with a Claustrophobic Twist

The storyline of “Retribution” revolves around Matt Turner, a committed professional whose dedication to his work eclipses his familial ties. The narrative takes a harrowing turn when Matt receives an ominous call while driving his children to school, unraveling a plot where a bomb is strategically placed beneath each car seat. As the anonymous caller coerces Matt into following their commands, the film introduces a premise that echoes the tension of the classic “Speed” but opts for a more confined and claustrophobic setting.

Neeson’s Charisma Dominates the Screen

Liam Neeson, known for his particular set of skills in the action thriller genre, delivers a formidable performance as Matt Turner. Neeson’s seasoned presence breathes life into the character, making Matt’s plight more tangible and compelling. While Matt may lack the overtly heroic qualities of some of Neeson’s iconic roles, the actor’s charisma elevates the film, making it a captivating watch.

A Supporting Cast that Holds Its Own

The supporting cast, featuring Embeth Davidtz as Matt’s wife, Lilly Aspell as the daughter, and Jack Champion as the rebellious son, delivers solid performances that complement the narrative. However, the true enigma lies in the unseen antagonist, whose mysterious voice keeps the audience in suspense, questioning the true nature of Neeson’s character.

Thrills and Pacing Excellence

“Retribution” excels in crafting an action-packed hostage drama within the confines of a car, maintaining relentless tension. The film’s pacing is commendable, offering a concise runtime that keeps viewers engaged. While the script could benefit from a bit more depth, the screenplay finds support in Flavio Labiano’s impressive camerawork and Steven Mirkovich’s sharp editing.

Hurdles in Execution and Communication

Set in Germany but spoken in English, the absence of subtitles during German-speaking portions may pose a challenge for some viewers seeking additional context. The film introduces a peculiar dynamic with the character of the Interpol female police boss, who holds crucial information yet remains resistant to Matt’s pleas for assistance. Additionally, a recurring issue is the persistent refusal of characters to heed Matt’s urgent appeals, creating moments of frustration for both the character and the audience.

A Riveting Cinematic Experience

While “Retribution” may not reinvent the action thriller genre, it offers a riveting and compact cinematic experience. The film’s masterful twist with the revelation of the antagonist and its visually impressive explosions add cinematic flair. Despite some narrative gaps, the film’s editing and brisk pacing maintain non-stop suspense.

Conclusion: A Solid Addition to Neeson’s Filmography

For fans of Liam Neeson, “Retribution” is a must-watch journey that showcases the actor’s enduring prowess, even if it doesn’t break new ground. The film’s tight 90-minute runtime ensures a brisk and electrifying ride, making it a solid addition to Neeson’s action-packed filmography. As Neeson’s charisma continues to dominate the screen, “Retribution” stands as a testament to his unwavering ability to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Rating: 2.5/5 Stars

SXSW Sydney: Promoting Inclusivity in Film and Television Production

In the ever-evolving landscape of the film and television industry, inclusivity and diversity have become more than just buzzwords; they are the pillars upon which creative excellence thrives. With this ethos in mind, SXSW Sydney brings you an enlightening session from October 15 to 22.

For those who aspire to create content that resonates with a broad and varied audience, understanding how to assemble a production team that reflects the world we live in is paramount. Many, however, find themselves at a loss when it comes to practical steps and overcoming obstacles. This session, made possible through the collaboration with Women In Film and Television (WIFT) and their global network, intends to shed light on this vital aspect of the industry.

Breaking Down Barriers

The heart of this session lies in its commitment to breaking down barriers and assessing the approach to crewing productions. Oakley Kwon, an award-winning actor, policy maker, and film producer, as well as the head of Loom Films and a prominent figure on the boards of WIFT Australia, Asian Food and Film, and the QLD Community Television Association Inc., will lead the discussion as the moderator.

Joining Kwon are three leading industry experts, each with an impressive track record in sourcing and running inclusive sets:

Andria Wilson Mirza: As the Director of ReFrame, a gender equity coalition founded and led by Sundance Institute and Women In Film, she brings a wealth of knowledge on the subject. ReFrame has been instrumental in promoting gender equity in the screen industry and is an influential advocate for diversity.

Kirsty Stark: AACTA, Rose d’Or, and Emmy award-winning television and feature film producer, Kirsty Stark, boasts an Emmy award for the children’s series “First Day” and extensive experience in championing inclusive storytelling. Her work speaks volumes about her commitment to diversity in the industry.

Kristen Hodges: With over 60 hours of television and feature films under her belt, Kristen Hodges is a Screen Australia executive and producer with a deep understanding of what it takes to create premium content. Her experience spans both Australian and US markets, emphasizing the importance of diversity on a global scale.

Tackling Obstacles and Sharing Resources

The panel will delve into the obstacles that screen practitioners face when crewing for diversity. By drawing from their wealth of experience and insights, they will provide practical solutions and share valuable resources to support those looking to make their productions as inclusive as possible. From casting to crewing, this session aims to equip attendees with the knowledge and tools to drive positive change in the industry.

Networking Opportunity

Following the panel discussion, WIFT will host a one-hour networking event, offering attendees a chance to connect with like-minded individuals and industry professionals. Networking is a vital component of forging meaningful collaborations and advancing the cause of inclusivity in film and television.

Event Details

Date and Time: Friday, October 20, 2023, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Location: Theatrette – Powerhouse Museum
In a world where storytelling has the power to shape perspectives and challenge societal norms, it is essential that our production teams reflect the rich tapestry of humanity. SXSW Sydney’s session on promoting inclusivity in film and television production is an opportunity to learn from the best in the industry and be part of the movement toward a more diverse and representative future.

Don’t miss out on this chance to be a catalyst for change in the entertainment world. Join us at SXSW Sydney and be a part of the conversation that matters.

For more information and tickets, visit SXSW Sydney’s official website via this link: SXSW 2023