Craig Silvey’s ‘RUNT’ Hits the Big Screen: A Tale of Friendship and Adventure”

Posted on by Jill W

Photo supplied by Studio Canal

“RUNT,” adapted from Craig Silvey’s bestselling novel, is a delightful Australian family film that blends heartfelt moments with humour. The story centres around eleven-year-old Annie Shearer and her best mate Runt, a stray dog she adopts.

This live-action feature is brought to life on screen by West Australian author Craig Silvey. It is directed by multi-award-winning Director John Sheedy (known for “H is for Happiness”) and produced by Jamie Hilton from See Pictures (“June Again,” “Breath”).

Runt features an ensemble of top-tier Australian talent, including Jai Courtney, Celeste Barber, Deborah Mailman, Matt Day, and Jack Thompson. Two fresh faces lead the cast: nine-year-old Lily LaTorre, who portrays the courageous Annie Shearer, and rescue dog Squid, who plays Runt (pictured).

On Thursday, Craig Silvey expressed his pride in the film, saying, “I am incredibly proud of this beautiful, uplifting film. Our exceptional cast and talented crew have captured the heart and humour of the book perfectly. I can’t wait for audiences of all ages across Australia to experience RUNT.”

Released in 2022, the novel “RUNT” garnered significant acclaim, winning multiple prestigious Australian literary awards. These include the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s Book of the Year for Young Readers, Book of the Year for Younger Children at the Australian Book Industry Awards, and overall Book of the Year at the Australian Indie Book Awards. The book’s success underscores its wide appeal and its resonant themes with readers. Check out the trailer below to catch a glimpse:

Umbrella Entertainment and Shudder Team Up to Release “In a Violent Nature” in ANZ Cinemas

Posted on by Zara G

Umbrella Entertainment recently announced its partnership with premium streaming service Shudder to release the slasher hit “In a Violent Nature” in cinemas across Australia and New Zealand on August 1, 2024.

This collaboration strengthens the ongoing relationship between Umbrella Entertainment and Shudder, following successful releases of Shudder titles such as “You’ll Never Find Me,” “The Demon Disorder,” and “Late Night with the Devil.”

After premiering at the Sundance Film Festival on January 22, as part of the festival’s acclaimed ‘Midnight’ program, “In a Violent Nature” hit 1,426 screens in the US, grossing $3 million USD in its first week. The film is being lauded as a unique horror experience that is best enjoyed on the big screen.

Written and directed by Chris Nash, “In a Violent Nature” follows a killer on a murderous rampage in the Canadian wilderness. The film has garnered attention for its unique perspective, presenting the killings through the murderer’s eyes. It’s a treat for horror and gore enthusiasts, currently boasting an impressive 84% fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes. Audience members have reported feeling unwell due to its intense scenes.

Ari Harrison, General Manager of Umbrella Entertainment, stated: “After the success of the theatrical release in the US, we immediately coordinated with Shudder to bring this film to ANZ cinemas. We are thrilled to partner with Shudder and bring it to local audiences on August 1! Horror fans, you do not want to miss the ‘Yoga Scene’ on the big screen!”

Emily Gotto, Senior Vice President of Acquisitions and Production for Shudder, commented: “We are excited to have Umbrella as our theatrical partners in ANZ for the release of ‘In a Violent Nature.’ They are passionate genre supporters and excellent partners to IFC Films and Shudder.”

Official Synopsis: When a locket is removed from a collapsed fire tower in the woods, it awakens the rotting corpse of Johnny, a vengeful spirit driven by a horrific 60-year-old crime. His resurrected body becomes determined to retrieve the locket, unleashing terror in his path.

Madman Entertainment Unveils Teaser Trailer for Adam Elliot’s “Memoir of a Snail”

Posted on by Sharleen C

Madman Entertainment has officially launched the teaser trailer for “Memoir of a Snail,” the latest project from Academy Award®-winning animation writer and director Adam Elliot, renowned for his work on “Mary and Max” and “Harvie Krumpet.” This highly anticipated stop-motion feature boasts a stellar voice cast, including Sarah Snook, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Eric Bana, Magda Szubanski, Dominique Pinon, Tony Armstrong, and Jacki Weaver.

“Memoir of a Snail” tells the poignant and bittersweet story of Grace Pudel (voiced by Sarah Snook), a lonely woman who shares the narrative of her life with a humble garden snail named Sylvia. The film recently had its world premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival and will serve as the opening night feature at the Melbourne International Film Festival on August 8.

Produced by Arenamedia, “Memoir of a Snail” received significant production investment from Screen Australia, in collaboration with Anton and Charades. The project was developed and produced in association with VicScreen, and financed with additional support from Soundfirm, Mind the Gap Finance, Jameker, Shadowlane, and the Melbourne International Film Festival Premiere Fund (MIFF).

Film Synopsis:

“Memoir of a Snail” follows the life of Grace Pudel, a solitary misfit with a passion for collecting ornamental snails and a deep love for books. After being separated from her fiery twin brother Gilbert at a young age, Grace experiences profound anxiety and distress. However, she finds solace and inspiration through an enduring friendship with an eccentric elderly woman named Pinky, whose zest for life brings hope and joy to Grace’s world. This heartfelt and humorous film from Adam Elliot chronicles Grace’s journey to find confidence and silver linings amidst life’s challenges.

“Memoir of a Snail” is slated for a cinematic release on October 17, 2024. Check out the trailer below:

Beloved Franchise Continues: ‘Paddington in Peru’ Trailer Debuts with Star-Studded Cast

Posted on by Jill W

The beloved bear is back! The first trailer for Paddington in Peru, the eagerly anticipated third installment in the cherished Paddington film series, has just been released. Fans of all ages can now get a glimpse of Paddington’s latest adventure as he returns to Peru to find his beloved Aunt Lucy, who has escaped from the Home for Retired Bears.

Directed by Dougal Wilson, Paddington in Peru features an all-star cast, including Hugh Bonneville, Emily Mortimer, Antonio Banderas, Olivia Colman, Dame Julie Walters, Madeleine Harris, Samuel Joslin, Carla Tous, and Jim Broadbent. Ben Whishaw once again lends his voice to the lovable Paddington Bear, while Aunt Lucy continues to be voiced by the talented Imelda Staunton.

In this heartwarming new chapter, Paddington’s journey takes him back to his roots in Peru, embarking on a quest filled with adventure, discovery, and the enduring themes of family and friendship that have made the franchise a global sensation.

Alongside the trailer, the official poster for Paddington in Peru has also been unveiled, offering fans a first look at the delightful imagery and whimsical charm that await them in the film.

Bill Bennett’s “The Way, My Way” Reaches $1 Million Box Office Milestone in Australia and New Zealand Within First 2 Weeks

Posted on by Mark D

Photo supplied by NIXCO

Since its debut on May 16, 2024, in Australia and New Zealand, “The Way, My Way” has reached the notable milestone of AU$1 million in just two weeks.

In 2023, only three Australian films surpassed the AU$1 million mark at the local box office (“Talk to Me,” “Blueback,” and “John Farnham: Finding The Voice”). “The Way, My Way” has achieved this feat in mere days and is now the third highest-grossing Australian film of 2024, following “Furiosa” and “Force of Nature: The Dry 2.”

Moreover, the film is set to become the second biggest Australian film of the year at the New Zealand box office, soon overtaking “Force of Nature: The Dry 2.”

The release expanded to 177 screens in Australia in its third weekend and enjoyed an unprecedented 19% increase in box office revenue, showcasing growing interest and positive word-of-mouth about the Camino, helping this independent film connect with audiences nationwide.

Marc Wooldridge, Managing Director for Maslow Entertainment, stated: “This is the sort of film that people are craving right now. It’s feel-good, funny, inspiring and transportive. People are also finding it deeply emotional and effecting too. We are so grateful for all the support the film has received from cinemas in both Australia and New Zealand, and the results over the past weekend suggest that there is still a very long road ahead for this beautiful and life-affirming movie.”

“The Way, My Way,” based on Bill Bennett’s best-selling book, stars Chris Haywood (“Muriel’s Wedding,” “Kiss or Kill”), Jennifer Cluff (“Kiss or Kill,” “In a Savage Land”), Pia Thunderbolt (“Three Thousand Years of Longing,” “Here Out West”), and Laura Lakshmi (TV’s “Colin from Accounts,” “Home and Away”). It tells the true story of a stubborn, self-centered Australian man who decides to walk the famed 800-kilometer Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route through Spain and the people he meets along the way that change his life forever, one step at a time.

The Camino de Santiago is renowned worldwide, with paths leading to the tomb of St. James in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in northwest Spain. It has become a spiritual experience for many, with around six million people walking at least some of the Camino annually, a number expected to grow in the coming years.

To celebrate the film’s continuing success, Bill Bennett and Jennifer Cluff will participate in additional Q&A screening events in the coming weeks, following a highly successful national Q&A tour where the film played to full theatres across the country.

This press release has been sourced from an article provided by NIXCO

Universal Unveils Behind-the-Scenes Featurette for Anticipated Horror Prequel, A Quiet Place: Day One

Posted on by Rowena

Universal has unveiled an exciting behind-the-scenes featurette for A Quiet Place: Day One, the highly anticipated horror prequel starring Academy Award-winner Lupita Nyong’o and rising star Joseph Quinn. Directed by Michael Sarnoski, this film takes audiences back to the fateful day when the world went eerily silent, marking the terrifying arrival of deadly alien creatures. As a prequel to the acclaimed series directed by John Krasinski, A Quiet Place: Day One promises to deliver the gripping and suspenseful narrative that fans have eagerly awaited.

Presented by Paramount Pictures in association with Michael Bay, the film is produced by Platinum Dunes and Sunday Night Production. The executive production team includes industry heavyweights Allyson Seeger and Vicki Dee Rock, with Michael Bay, Andrew Form, Brad Fuller, and John Krasinski leading the production. The story, based on characters created by Bryan Woods and Scott Beck, is crafted by John Krasinski and Michael Sarnoski, with Sarnoski also taking on the roles of screenwriter and director.

The stellar cast, featuring Lupita Nyong’o, Joseph Quinn, Alex Wolff, and Djimon Hounsou, brings depth and intensity to their roles, enhancing the film’s eerie and suspenseful atmosphere. The newly released featurette offers fans an exclusive glimpse into the creative process behind the film, showcasing the talent and dedication of the cast and crew. Nyong’o and Quinn share their on-set experiences, highlighting the intense atmosphere and unique challenges of filming a horror movie that relies heavily on silence and suspense.

A Quiet Place: Day One is set for an exclusive theatrical release on June 27, 2024, with tickets now available for purchase. This featurette invites fans to delve deeper into the origin of the silence, revealing the meticulous effort involved in crafting a movie that promises to be both heart-pounding and unforgettable.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the beginning of the terrifying silence. Secure your tickets now and prepare for an extraordinary journey back to A Quiet Place. To view the behind-the-scenes featurette, check out the video below.

KANGAROO Leaps into Production: Uplifting Outback Comedy Inspired by the Kangaroo Sanctuary

Posted on by Sofia P

STUDIOCANAL’s Australian production arm, Cultivator Films Australia, recently announced filming is underway on its first feature film, KANGAROO, produced in partnership with Bunya Productions and Brindle Films. An uplifting family comedy set in the Australian Outback and bouncing with adorable joeys, KANGAROO is inspired by the story of Chris Barns, aka ‘Brolga’, founder of the Kangaroo Sanctuary in Alice Springs.

KANGAROO marks the return to Australia of director Kate Woods (The Umbrella Academy, The Good Lord Bird,  Looking for Alibrandi) and is written by Harry Cripps (The Dry, Penguin Bloom) with additional writing from Melina Marchetta (Looking for Alibrandi) and additional material from Danielle MacLean & Peta-Lee Cole-Manolis. Producers are David Jowsey, Greer Simpkin, and Angela Littlejohn for Bunya Productions (Sweet Country, Limbo, Mystery Road), and Rachel Clements and Trisha Morton-Thomas for Brindle Films (MaveriX, Finke: There and Back, 8MMM Aboriginal Radio) with Louise Smith and Marian McGowan serving as executive producers alongside STUDIOCANAL’s Anna Marsh, Ron Halpern, Elizabeth Trotman and Marcus Gillezeau. Major production investment from Screen Australia in association with Screen Territory, with support from Screen NSW’s Made in NSW Fund.

KANGAROO is a heart-warming family comedy about an ex-TV personality Chris Masterman, who becomes stranded in an Outback town after a car accident on his way to Broome. There, he teams up with 11-year-old Indigenous girl Charlie. The pair form an unlikely friendship and work together to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned joeys in the remote but stunning Outback community. An endeavour that proves to be life-changing for them both.

Ryan Corr (House of the Dragon, Catching Dust, Holding the Man) stars as ex TV weather presenter Chris Masterman, alongside newcomer Lily Whiteley who stars as Charlie. They lead an outstanding ensemble of actors including Deborah Mailman (Total Control, The New Boy, The Sapphires), Wayne Blair (The New Boy, Mystery Road), Trisha Morton-Thomas (High Country, Occupation: Native, The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart, Ten Pound Poms), Rachel House (Hunt for the Wilderpeople, Thor: Ragnarok), Brooke Satchwell (Poker Face, The Twelve), Ernie Dingo (Bran Nue Dae, The Great Outdoors), Genevieve Lemon (Population 11 , The Power of the Dog), Clarence Ryan (Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, The Moogai), Rarriwuy Hick (True Colours, Wentworth), Roy Billing (Jack Irish, Underbelly), Rick Donald (Population 11, Roast Night), Emily Taheny (Bay of Fires, Shaun Micallef’s Mad as Hell), Bondi Lifeguard Ryan Clark (Bondi Rescue) and celebrated Australian TV presenter Grant Denyer.

Rounding out the cast is the adorable mob of kangaroo joeys, currently in the care of the Alice Springs Kangaroo Sanctuary, who will make their feature film debut in KANGAROO!

DOP is Kieran Fowler NZCS ACS, Production Design by Sam Hobbs, Costume Designer is Edie Kurzer, Editor is Chris Plummer and Casting by Anousha Zarkesh. Cultural Liaison is Warren H Williams with Cultural Advisors Benedict Stevens, Marie Ellis and Williams.

Set and filmed on location in the stunning Australian Red Centre town of Alice Springs, on Arrernte Country, where the real Kangaroo Sanctuary is based, the film will also shoot at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach on the traditional land and waters of the Bidjigal, Birrabirragal and Gadigal Peoples.

Australia and New Zealand CEO Elizabeth Trotman said “The commencement of production for KANGAROO marks a monumental moment for Cultivator Films and STUDIOCANAL Australia’s local production arm. The culmination of years of behind the scenes work by many and the beginning of an exciting chapter for the company with its first feature film being made at home.”

“With cameras rolling in the Australian Outback the cast and crew will come together, each bringing their unique talents and perspectives.  Joining the home of Paddington Bear and hundreds of other extraordinary films made by STUDIOCANAL worldwide, KANGAROO and all of the people associated with it, is sure to leave an indelible mark on the landscape of cinema.”

KANGAROO’s Producers said “Bunya and Brindle are thrilled to be here on beautiful Arrernte country, with director Kate Woods and our extraordinary cast and crew, to bring this film to life. KANGAROO is such a distinctly Australian story, and we are so excited to have the wonderful Ryan Corr leading this cast, and to be introducing talented young Lily Whiteley to a global audience. Thanks to all of our partners in STUDIOCANAL, Screen Australia, Screen Territory and Screen NSW in backing this truly special production.”

“The producers would also like to acknowledge the remarkable Chris ‘Brolga’ Barns and his Kangaroo Sanctuary which cares for orphaned and injured joeys until they are old enough and strong enough to return to their mob in the wild. Brolga’s story inspired our film, and we welcome him and his wife Tahnee to the crew, along with their loveable rescue joeys, currently in the Sanctuary’s care. Their outstanding work in wildlife rehabilitation is an inspiration to us all.”

Screen Australia COO Grainne Brunsdon said “Set against the stunning backdrop of the Australian Outback, this heartwarming tale promises to be a cinematic gem, showcasing the talent and creativity that Screen Australia is proud to support and promote globally. With the exceptional teams at STUDIOCANAL, Brindle Films, and Bunya Productions steering the production, we’re confident KANGAROO will captivate hearts worldwide.”

Jennie Hughes, Director of Screen Territory said “Screen Territory is delighted to see KANGAROO heading into production in central Australia, the heart of the Northern Territory.  The combination of Brindle Films and Bunya Productions working together for the first time promises to bring an exciting dynamic to this STUDIOCANAL film showcasing the very best of Australia’s screen talent to Australian and global audiences.”

Kyas Hepworth, Head of Screen NSW said “Screen NSW is thrilled to be working with STUDIOCANAL on their first feature film production, alongside Screen Territory while showcasing the talent and crews that Australia has to offer, and showing off Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach, to bring this story of friendship and resilience to the big screen through the Made in NSW Fund. KANGAROO is a film that we know will resonate with audiences both on a local and global scale.”

Production Credit: KANGAROO is a Cultivator Films Australia production in partnership with Bunya Productions and Brindle Films. Major production investment from Screen Australia in association with Screen Territory, with support from Screen NSW’s Made in NSW Fund. Developed by STUDIOCANAL Australia and Screen Australia. Local distribution and international sales by STUDIOCANAL.

Discover the Next Chapter: ‘Moana 2’ Teaser Trailer Promises Thrilling Oceanic Voyage

Posted on by Mark D

Walt Disney Animation Studios is poised to make waves once again with the highly anticipated release of “Moana 2.” This November, audiences will be treated to the return of the beloved heroine Moana in a brand-new feature film. Auli‘i Cravalho reprises her role as the spirited protagonist, while Dwayne Johnson is back as the charismatic demigod Maui. The recent unveiling of the teaser trailer, along with an eye-catching poster and exclusive images, offers a tantalizing glimpse into the adventure that awaits.

Set to premiere exclusively in cinemas on November 28, 2024, “Moana 2” continues the narrative three years after the original film. The sequel reunites Moana and Maui for another epic journey, this time accompanied by a diverse crew of seafarers. The story kicks off when Moana receives an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, prompting her to embark on a daring expedition into the uncharted and treacherous waters of Oceania. This new adventure promises to exceed the scope of her previous exploits, highlighting her growth as a navigator and leader.

The film is helmed by the talented directorial trio of David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, with Christina Chen and Yvett Merino serving as producers. The musical score is crafted by an impressive lineup of artists, including Grammy® winners Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Grammy nominee Opetaia Foaʻi, and three-time Grammy winner Mark Mancina. This ensemble of musical talent is set to deliver a soundtrack that will leave a lasting impression on audiences.

As “Moana 2” sails towards its release date, the anticipation continues to build. The teaser trailer, poster, and images provide just a taste of the thrilling journey that lies ahead. Make sure to experience Moana’s latest adventure on the big screen this November, as she and Maui navigate new challenges and forge unforgettable memories.

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.

Get Ready for Action: Marvel Unleashes New Trailer for ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ Adventure!

Posted on by filmadmin

Marvel Studios has set the stage for what could be one of the most anticipated superhero team-ups in recent memory with the release of a brand-new trailer for “Deadpool & Wolverine.” Promising a spectacle of epic proportions, the film is slated to hit cinemas on July 25th, marking a milestone moment in the superhero genre.

Directed by the esteemed Shawn Levy, “Deadpool & Wolverine” brings together a star-studded cast led by Ryan Reynolds reprising his role as the irreverent Deadpool, alongside Hugh Jackman as the indomitable Wolverine. With supporting performances from Emma Corrin, Morena Baccarin, Rob Delaney, Leslie Uggams, Karan Soni, and Matthew Macfadyen, the film boasts a lineup of talent sure to excite fans worldwide.

Behind the scenes, a powerhouse team of producers, including Kevin Feige, Ryan Reynolds, Shawn Levy, and Lauren Shuler Donner, have worked tirelessly to bring this ambitious project to fruition. Executive producers Louis D’Esposito, Wendy Jacobson, Mary McLaglen, Josh McLaglen, Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, George Dewey, and Simon Kinberg have also lent their expertise to ensure the film’s success.

Penned by a team of seasoned writers including Ryan Reynolds, Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, Zeb Wells, and Shawn Levy, “Deadpool & Wolverine” promises to deliver a blend of exhilarating action, razor-sharp wit, and emotional depth that has become synonymous with Marvel Studios productions.

As audiences eagerly await the film’s release, anticipation is at an all-time high for what could be a game-changing moment in the superhero genre. With its star-studded cast, visionary direction, and high-octane action, “Deadpool & Wolverine” is poised to leave an indelible mark on cinema when it arrives in theaters this summer.