Category: Coming Soon

The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand Announces the Return of Thrilling Ocean Adventure with “Shipwreck Hunters Australia” Season 2

Posted on by Jill W

The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand is excited to announce that the highly popular Australian Original documentary series, “Shipwreck Hunters Australia,” will return for a second season on Disney+. The new six-part instalment promises more thrilling adventures as the team of fearless ocean explorers dive deep into Western Australia’s ruggedly beautiful ‘Treasure Coast’ to uncover incredible stories of survival and tragic shipwrecks.

Returning Crew and New Adventures

Season 2 reunites the skilled divers and underwater filmmakers, including Captain Ash Sutton, Andre Rerekura, Nush Freedman, Johnny Debnam, and Ryan Chatfield. They will continue to be supported by expert maritime archaeologists from the Western Australian Museum. Together, they will embark on adrenaline-pumping expeditions to investigate maritime mysteries, explore stunning ocean wildlife, and uncover the secrets of Western Australia’s coastline, home to over 1,600 shipwrecks.

Season 1 Highlights and Anticipation for Season 2

The first season of “Shipwreck Hunters Australia” captivated audiences with the historic discovery of the 111-year-old sunken Finnish-owned sailing ship Glenbank and a 1942 Flying Boat sunk during World War II in Broome. Filming for Season 2 has commenced and will take place across several locations over the coming year.

Production and Support

“Shipwreck Hunters Australia” Season 2 is a co-production between VAM Media, Terra Australis Productions, and Barking Mad Productions for Disney+. The series has received significant production investment from Screen Australia, with additional support from Screenwest, Lotterywest, the Western Australian Regional Screen Fund, and Tourism Western Australia. The series will be directed and produced by VAM Media’s Brendan Hutchens, alongside series producer Russell Vines and executive producer Steve Bibb.

“We’re thrilled Shipwreck Hunters Australia is returning to Disney+ for another season,” The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Kylie Watson-Wheeler, said.

“The series captivated our audiences worldwide with its mystery, adventure and exploration. We’re excited for this next chapter of shipwreck tales and to see even more breathtaking underwater filmmaking in a place of such rare and true natural beauty.”

Screen Australia COO Grainne Brunsdon said: “We’re excited to support the highly anticipated second season of Shipwreck Hunters Australia. This talented team of ocean adventurers continue to explore enchanting local histories, highlighting First Nations perspectives and captivating wreckage events. Set against Western Australia’s majestic coastline, the series will appeal to adventure enthusiasts worldwide.”

Screenwest CEO Rikki Lea Bestall said: “We’re excited to see Shipwreck Hunters Australia return to Western Australia for another instalment. This series shines a global spotlight on our unique coastal landscape as well as our incredible local creatives and crew – we can’t wait to tune into Disney+ and see what the Shipwreck team discover this time!”

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Disney+ / Image supplied by Disney+

Oscar Winner Kate Winslet to Tour Australia to Promote New Film “LEE”

Posted on by Mark D

STUDIOCANAL Australia is thrilled to announce that Academy Award® Winner Kate Winslet will embark on an Australian publicity tour later this year to promote her highly anticipated new film, “LEE.” The tour will take place in October 2024 and will include appearances by Winslet’s producing partner, Kate Solomon, and Lee Miller’s son, Antony Penrose.

About the Film

“LEE” is a captivating portrait of the renowned American war correspondent and photographer Lee Miller. The film stars Kate Winslet in the titular role, showcasing Miller’s extraordinary talent and unyielding tenacity, which brought some of the most unforgettable images of the 20th century to the world.

Synopsis:

Oscar-winner Kate Winslet stars in this fascinating portrait of the great American war correspondent Lee Miller, whose singular talent and ferocious tenacity gave us some of the 20th century’s most indelible images. “LEE” also features an impressive ensemble cast including Andy Samberg, Alexander Skarsgård, Marion Cotillard, Josh O’Connor, Andrea Riseborough, and Noémie Merlant.

Release Date: October 24, 2024

Cast:

  • Kate Winslet
  • Andy Samberg
  • Alexander Skarsgård
  • Marion Cotillard
  • Josh O’Connor
  • Andrea Riseborough
  • Noémie Merlant

Directed By: Ellen Kuras

Written By: Liz Hannah, Marion Hume, John Collee

Produced By: Kate Winslet, Kate Solomon, Troy Lum, Andrew Mason, Marie Savare, Lauren Hantz

Kate Winslet, Kate Solomon, and Antony Penrose will visit several major Australian cities to participate in various promotional events, including media interviews, fan meet-and-greets, and special screenings of “LEE.”

This tour presents a unique opportunity for Australian fans and media to engage with Winslet and learn more about the making of this remarkable film that brings to life the story of one of the 20th century’s most influential photographers.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Studio Canal

Yorgos Lanthimos Returns to Cannes Film Festival with World Premiere of “Kinds of Kindness”

Posted on by Mark D

Photo supplied by Brooke Birch of Disney

The 77th Edition of the Cannes Film Festival just witnessed the unveiling of a cinematic masterpiece as Searchlight Pictures proudly presents the world premiere of “Kinds of Kindness,” the latest offering from acclaimed director Yorgos Lanthimos. Set to captivate audiences with its intricate storytelling and stellar ensemble cast, the film is slated to open exclusively in Australian cinemas on July 11, 2024.

Synopsis:

“Kinds of Kindness” weaves a triptych fable, exploring the lives of three individuals caught in the throes of fate. From a man grappling with the illusion of choice to a perplexed policeman confronting the enigma of his wife’s return, and a determined woman on a quest for a destined spiritual leader, the film delves into the complexities of human existence with Lanthimos’ signature blend of wit and profundity.

Director’s Legacy at Cannes:

For Yorgos Lanthimos and screenwriter Efthimis Filippou, “Kinds of Kindness” marks their fourth in-competition film at the esteemed Cannes Film Festival. From the groundbreaking “Dogtooth,” which earned Lanthimos the Un Certain Regard Prize in 2009, to the award-winning “The Lobster” in 2015 and the riveting “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” in 2017, the director’s Cannes journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.

All-Star Cast:

Joining Lanthimos at Cannes will be an illustrious ensemble cast, including Academy Award winners and nominees such as Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Willem Dafoe, Margaret Qualley, Hong Chau, Joe Alwyn, Mamoudou Athie, and Hunter Schafer. Their collective talent promises to bring the multifaceted characters of “Kinds of Kindness” to life in spellbinding fashion.

Production Details:

“Kinds of Kindness” is a testament to the creative collaboration between Lanthimos and Efthimis Filippou, marking their fifth joint venture following acclaimed works such as “The Lobster” and “The Killing of a Sacred Deer.” Produced by Ed Guiney, Andrew Lowe, Yorgos Lanthimos, and Kasia Malipan, the film represents the pinnacle of cinematic excellence.

Don’t Miss the Premiere:

Prepare to be transported into a world of intrigue and introspection when “Kinds of Kindness” graces the screens of Australian cinemas on July 11, 2024. Experience the magic of Yorgos Lanthimos’ latest cinematic triumph and witness the brilliance of an all-star cast in action.

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

Posted on by Rowena

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by filmadmin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by filmadmin

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!

First Look Alert: Searchlight Pictures Unveils Captivating Trailer and Stunning Poster for ‘Poor Things!’

Posted on by filmadmin

Exciting news for movie enthusiasts! The highly anticipated film “Poor Things,” directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and produced by Emma Stone, has just released its captivating trailer and stunning poster. Set to hit Australian cinemas on October 12, 2023, this cinematic masterpiece takes viewers on an extraordinary journey through the fantastical evolution of its protagonist, Bella Baxter, brilliantly portrayed by Emma Stone herself.

In “Poor Things,” Bella Baxter’s story unfolds as she is brought back to life by the brilliant yet unorthodox scientist, Dr. Godwin Baxter, portrayed by the remarkable Willem Dafoe. Under the protective wing of Dr. Baxter, Bella’s thirst for knowledge and worldly experiences is ignited. Yearning for a life beyond her previous limitations, she embarks on a thrilling escapade with Duncan Wedderburn, a slick and debauched lawyer portrayed by the talented Mark Ruffalo. Together, they traverse continents, creating a whirlwind adventure that defies conventions and societal norms.

One of the key themes explored in “Poor Things” is the pursuit of equality and liberation. As Bella breaks free from the prejudices of her time, she discovers a steadfast purpose within herself, fueled by a desire to stand up for the rights of others. This remarkable transformation showcases the resilience and determination of the human spirit, capturing the hearts of audiences around the world.

The film is based on the book by the acclaimed author Alasdair Gray, whose rich storytelling provides the foundation for this cinematic masterpiece. Adding to the allure of “Poor Things” is the screenplay penned by the talented Tony McNamara, marking the second collaboration between McNamara and director Yorgos Lanthimos, who previously worked together on the critically acclaimed film “The Favourite.” This combination of remarkable source material and the creative vision of Lanthimos and McNamara promises a captivating and thought-provoking experience for moviegoers.

Behind the scenes, a stellar team of producers has contributed their expertise to bring “Poor Things” to life. The film was produced by Ed Guiney, Andrew Lowe, Yorgos Lanthimos, and Emma Stone, showcasing their dedication to delivering a high-quality cinematic experience that resonates with audiences on a profound level.

With the release of the trailer and poster, anticipation for “Poor Things” has reached new heights. The visuals presented in the poster are a testament to the film’s artistic brilliance, capturing the essence of the story and its enigmatic characters. Combined with the intriguing glimpses provided in the trailer, audiences are left yearning for more, eagerly awaiting the film’s arrival in cinemas.

As the release date approaches, movie enthusiasts and fans of Yorgos Lanthimos’ previous works can prepare themselves for an unforgettable cinematic experience. “Poor Things” promises to transport viewers into a world of imagination, where love, liberation, and unconventional science intertwine to create a remarkable tale that challenges conventions and touches the very core of our humanity.

So mark your calendars for October 12, 2023, and get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating world of “Poor Things.” With its exceptional cast, mesmerizing storytelling, and visionary direction, this film is poised to leave an indelible mark on cinema and captivate the hearts of audiences worldwide.

James Cameron’s Global Phenomenon ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ Set to Premiere on Disney+ on June 7th

Posted on by filmadmin

Get Ready! James Cameron’s Epic Film ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ Arrives on Disney+ on June 7th, Featuring Bonus Content with Filmmakers and Cast.

The highly anticipated moment is just around the corner! Following its groundbreaking theatrical run, James Cameron’s global phenomenon, ‘Avatar: The Way of Water,’ will finally make its debut on Disney+ in Australia on June 7th. This exclusive release will also include exciting bonus content, offering audiences an immersive behind-the-scenes experience with the talented filmmakers, cast, and crew.

Since its initial theatrical release on December 15th, ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ has captured the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide, becoming the third highest-grossing film of all time with a staggering box office collection of nearly $2.32 billion. The film’s immense success has also earned it numerous Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, while setting new standards for visual effects. Produced by James Cameron and his long-time partner Jon Landau, this 20th Century Studios-Lightstorm Entertainment production features an exceptional ensemble cast, including Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Cliff Curtis, and Kate Winslet. Joining the esteemed adult cast are talented newcomers Britain Dalton, Jamie Flatters, Trinity Jo-Li Bliss, Bailey Bass, and Jack Champion. The screenplay was crafted by James Cameron, Rick Jaffa, Amanda Silver, with an engaging story penned by James Cameron, Rick Jaffa, Amanda Silver, Josh Friedman, and Shane Salerno. David Valdes and Richard Baneham serve as executive producers for the film.

Prepare to embark on a breathtaking adventure as ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ takes audiences to new heights and uncharted depths, returning them to the mesmerizing world of Pandora. Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, this emotionally charged, action-packed sequel delves into the captivating story of the Sully family—Jake, Neytiri, and their children—as they navigate the perils that come their way, going to great lengths to protect one another and fight for survival amidst unimaginable challenges. All of this unfolds against the stunning backdrop of Pandora’s awe-inspiring seascapes, where viewers are introduced to new Na’vi cultures and a host of exotic sea creatures.

In addition to its availability on Disney+, ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ can also be enjoyed on platforms like Apple TV, Amazon.com, Google Play, Microsoft Movies and TV Store, Telstra TV Box Office, and Fetch. Don’t miss this extraordinary cinematic experience that promises to leave you captivated and enthralled!”a

Production Begins On Repeater Productions’ “Puzzle Box”

Posted on by filmadmin

Cameras are rolling on the new Australian horror film “Puzzle Box” from writer-director Jack Dignan (“After She Died”). The film stars Kaitlyn Boyé (“The Furies,” “Home & Away”), Laneikka Denne (“Mud Crab,” “Feminazi”), Cassandre Girard (“After She Died”), Janelle McMenamin (“Interceptor”), and Matias Klaver (“After She Died,” “Risen”).

The found-footage horror film, shot in the same handheld-POV style as “The Blair Witch Project” and the recent international hit “Skinamarink,” follows the story of a struggling drug addict, Kait (Kaitlyn Boyé), and her younger sister, Olivia (Laneikka Denne). Running from a recent violent incident in her past and not wanting to go back to rehab, Kait flees to a remote house in the woods to self-rehabilitate, where Olivia joins her to document the process. But they quickly find that the house isn’t what it seems and the internal layout is constantly changing, trapping them in an inescapable puzzle box of a house. As they attempt to solve the mystery and find a way out, they discover there are far worse things in this house to be afraid of…

“Puzzle Box” is produced by Jack Dignan and Morgan Wright through Wright’s production company Repeater Productions. Dignan directed last year’s award-winning horror film “After She Died,” which is now out on VOD, DVD/Blu-Ray, and streaming on Tubi in select countries. Wright recently produced Ben Golotta’s debut short film “Lean” and Conor Mercury’s “The Fritz”, ” which premiered at this year’s Academy Award-qualifying Flickerfest Short Film Festival in Bondi. This is Wright’s and Repeater’s first feature film.

Production is expected to last until the end of the month in Sydney, with post-production continuing locally through to the latter half of the year.

Walt Disney Australia Release Schedule As Of May 2022…The Countdown Begins NOW

Posted on by filmadmin

2021 has been a tough year for the movie industry. As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to drastically affect the world, the year’s biggest films were caught in the crossfire which resulted in a number of setbacks and cancellations brought upon by the pandemic. However, Walt Disney Australia has decided to put some of these skepticisms to rest, with the company revealing their Australian release schedule for all their films until 2023. Without further ado, check out Walt Disney Australia’s release schedule as of May 2022.