An Indie Crowd-Funded Comedy Is Set To Premiere At The Sydney Film Festival

Evicted! A Modern Romance is the brand new and very topical Aussie indie comedy about the trials and tribulations of looking for a house to rent in Sydney – sound relatable? It sure is!

Following a tough few years for the arts community, emerging Sydney filmmakers Rowan Devereux and Sophie Saville are proud to announce their latest work and first feature film, ‘Evicted! A Modern Romance’ will be premiering at Sydney Film Festival in June.

The feature debut of regular collaborators Rowan Devereux and Sophie Saville, starring Amanda Maple Brown, Will Suen, Rose Haining, and Clare Cavanagh, Evicted! A Modern Romance casts an amusing yet critical millennial eye over the job and housing market. Devereux and Saville used the first lockdown in 2020 to begin development and pre-production on the feature film. The film was fully financed through private investment and a crowd-funding campaign using the Australian Cultural Fund, at the end of 2020. Filming began in early 2021 while COVID restrictions were in full swing. This is a truly Sydney-centric, homegrown film, with everything shot in and around the city’s inner west and all cast and crew sourced from the vibrant Sydney filmmaking community.

Evicted follow’s four housemates on the verge of eviction as they trawl Sydney’s fraught rental market in search of a new place to call home. With an impending eviction hanging over their heads, freshly unemployed Maggie, gig-economy worker Will, and feuding couple Isabelle and May embark on a seemingly futile hunt for an affordable share house. Along the way, they encounter kitchen toilets, one-way attics, and an alleged haunted house. As Will forms an unlikely friendship with a war veteran, Isabelle hits it off with her local barista, and endless mishaps, coincidences, and hook-ups gone wrong are abound.

The film will be showing at the Sydney Film Festival on the 16th and 18th of June 2022; visit https://www.sff.org.au/program/browse/evicted-a-modern-romance for full details. To keep up to date with the film, visit evictedthemovie.com. Check out the trailer below.

Evicted! A Modern Romance – Trailer 01 – (The Great Divide) from The Story Mill on Vimeo.

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Disney+ Teams Up With The Matildas To Showcase Australian Sporting Spirit

 

The Walt Disney Company and Football Australia today announced a new Australian-commissioned Disney+ Original which will tell the story of the Australian women’s national football team, the Commonwealth Bank Matildas, as they prepare for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ on home soil alongside co-host New Zealand.

The six-part docu-series – yet to have its title revealed – will go behind-the-scenes of the popular Australian national sporting team, the Matildas, and track the rise of women’s sport through incredible and immersive storytelling. It will chronicle the highs and lows as well as extraordinary teamwork, trust and spirit – as the squad looks to create history and leave an unrivalled legacy for the sport in Australia and abroad.

Off the field, the series will highlight how the Matildas are pioneering change, as well as covering their experiences during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup. The series will also explore the influence of head coach Tony Gustavsson, and the special connection the Matildas have with their fans. Overall, it will capture how the Matildas are able to unite Australians in the lead up to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™.

Production of the series is underway, led by Executive Producers, Steve Bibb (Inside the Sydney Opera House, Shipwreck Hunters Australia) and Christopher G. Cowen (Decades Series, College Football 150, State of Play) with Katie Bender Wynn (The Will To Fly) as Director. Fremantle and Boardwalk Pictures will lend services on this global production.

The series will launch on Disney+ locally in 2023 and be available on Disney+ globally at a later date.

The Walt Disney Company will reveal its 2022/23 scripted and unscripted Disney+ Australian commissions in the coming weeks, adding to the Matildas series.

Kylie Watson-Wheeler, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of The Walt Disney Company in Australia and New Zealand said, “The Matildas are gamechangers for women’s sport in Australia and around the world. This Australian narrative details the impressive skill, determination, commitment, and stamina it takes in the lead up to the World Cup in 2023. The series transcends football and celebrates the true Australian spirit of the Matildas.”

James Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Football Australia said, “The Commonwealth Bank Matildas represent Australia on the world stage as global ambassadors and are an inspiration to many, both young and old. This docu-series is an incredible opportunity to share their story not just locally, but globally, and at a time of rapid evolution in women’s football, we are proud to be working with the world’s best story-telling company to bring the Matildas spirit to life.

“In partnering with The Walt Disney Company, Football Australia has chosen a partner that focuses on stories with inspirational and aspirational themes. Together, we hope that this docu-series will inspire the next generation of footballers, girls and boys, around the world, and our players are excited by that challenge.”

Director, Katie Bender Wynn said, “The Matildas have broken through massive barriers for women in sport, yet their story has never properly been told. I’m thrilled that Disney+ is shining a light on this inspiring group of women whose stories are worthy of the biggest platform. On its surface, this is a classic tale about a team of women preparing for the greatest tournament of their lives; but at its core, it’s an intimate portrait of a sisterhood that transcends the game.”

Executive Producer, Steve Bibb said, “As a documentary maker and an inquisitive football fan, it’s a privilege to be given the opportunity to tell the Matildas’ story in this special moment in time. The behind- the-scenes access allows us to bring this story to the world as we chart the journey of these inspiring women writing the next chapter in their story on the road to the 2023 World Cup.”

Executive Producer, Christopher G. Cowen said, “Disney+ and Football Australia have given us the opportunity to tell the inspiring story of the Matildas to the millions of young female and male football players around the globe, and that is a responsibility that our entire team takes on with great zeal.”

Actor Spotlight: One On One With Jonathon James Williams

Jonathon James Williams is an Australian-born filmmaker finding ways to make his dreams a reality in Los Angeles. Back in Australia, Jonathon started out as a carpenter and construction worker making a living working tunnel construction and carpentry. During those long hours, he found himself daydreaming of sunshine and living the Hollywood dream. Following a near-death workplace accident, he decided to follow his lifelong dream and step into the California sun. He traded in his construction hat for a plane ticket, and never looked back.

Once Jonathon arrived in Los Angeles in 2013 he enrolled at the world-famous Stella Adler Academy of Theater in Hollywood. He cut his teeth there during his full-time studies and then began to produce and direct high-concept short films. He was also a former Masterclass Film director student of Academy Award-nominated actor James Franco. From there, he was able to jump into this industry and has been blessed with various opportunities to showcase his talents. Currently, he has spent the last two years producing, directing, and acting in “I Want To Thank The Academy”. This movie is in the spirit of Crocodile Dundee, but on the streets of Hollywood, where they deep dive into the actor’s world through the lens of an outback Australian farmer.

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

What do you like most about acting?

The chance to embody another character. To be in a story that can bring joy, happiness, sadness, or education.

What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

Keeping the faith and trusting your vision. There is limited support or celebration prior to delivering a great movie. Until that moment arrives, it is solitude and isolation. At times, I am the only one working on the project and which does lead me to find ways to keep the motivation going.

Do you try more to be original or to deliver to viewers what they want?

It can be a mix. All the movies I have ever directed reflect original storylines, but cinema does have a great history of norms, that sometimes have to be nodded to.

If you could tell your younger self anything, what would it be?

Keep dreaming and keep the faith.

What was an early experience where you learned that films had power?

As a kid, I grew up in a troubled home with an alcoholic mom in a suburb that borders the world-famous Broadmeadows in Victoria, Australia. But, every Tuesday my dad would rent 5 movies for $5 from Blockbusters and we would have them for a week. I used to watch movies all day, and it became my escape and set me froth on my future path. Movies help, they foster dreams and help people when they are down. They inspire, motivate, and can change hearts and minds. They educate people on the wonders of this world along with the cruelty of it. Since my childhood, I focus on creating a storyline that can help others. Just like past movies have helped me.

Can you tell us more about your latest film?

I just can’t think of too many Australian movies that were made in the United States. There was the Dundee’s, but apart from that, there’s been none. Until now. That’s what makes “I Want To Thank The Academy” so special. It will blow away the audience. A movie like this has never been done and this story has never been told and I’m more than happy to say it is going to be one of the greatest independent movies made. In the movie, Richard Wilken is an Australian cattle farmer who moves to Hollywood to chase his childhood dreams of becoming an actor. Richard takes the audience on an outrageous and audacious journey through Hollywood and life, as he moonlights with an unusual job and grinds away in an attempt to achieve his unlikely dream of being an actor. “I Want To Thank The Academy” is littered with a powerful ensemble of known actors: Rick Peters, Justine Wachsberger, Bruce Katzman, Cami Storm, Katarzyna Wolejnio, Noel Gibson, Steve Krahel, Tarek Tohmne, Jeff Alan Lee, Carolyn Crotty, Samantha Mahurin, Jonathon Williams, Jason Trevits and other notable names. We have a great collection of well-known actors that have done substantial international work. We have over twenty nationalities representing our cast and crew and several immigrants cast in this film. It is a movie that represents Australia in strong and fun light, showcasing the Aussie Spirit. Viewers will relate to the feeling of pride found in pursuing dreams in life and can watch it all unfold on the Hollywood stage. It truly is an extraordinary effort and the bar has been set high to deliver a multimillion-dollar movie on a fraction of that budget through hard work and hustle.

What inspired the story? How did it come about?

The original concept of the central character came from a misadventure on set. I was hired by a big time film director who has worked with the likes of Russell Crowe, Denzel Washington, Sir Anthony Hopkins and so on. I was cast as this Australian character in a supporting role and I was told to be super Australian and come to set prepared. At the time, I got no camera time, a few scenes and I believe the schedule got so backed up, I was forgotten. But it planted the seed for Richard Wilkin’s going forward. I then mustered together all of my wild and unusual experiences I have had in Los Angeles and in the acting world, then coiled them into the script and movie. Therefore, the movie is loosely based on real events. After that, it has been nonstop hustle; hard work; thousands of crazy hours of blood, sweat and tears that have gone into this movie.

What makes this story unique and why should people watch it?

This movie is one of a kind and centers on a story that has never been told. It is the only Australian movie since Crocodile Dundee to be filmed in the great United States.

What was the production process like?

Fun and daring, but before filming, we spent over a year on the script and then worked in some of the most iconic locations in Los Angeles, Hollywood Sign, Hollywood Blvd, Rodeo Dr, Santa Monica Pier and many more. It has been a blast and a film that shows the awesome and vibrant life of Los Angeles, and the acing world, but through the eyes of an Australian farmer. So, we had a wild and fun ride.

What was the most challenging part of bringing the project to light?

Did anything funny or exceptional happen on set? We had multiple scenes in some of the most iconic locations that are full of tourists and spectators, the main character Richard is dressed as if he is from the early 1900s so he sticks out like a sore thumb, so it is super funny for the average viewer watching us film.

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

Directing and acting in my upcoming film, “I Want To Thank The Academy” I have mastered being patient in the process. By developing this skill, I have been able to spend time creating a movie that ultimately showcases the Australian culture right here in Hollywood. It takes time to artistically contrast the spirit of Australia along with the Los Angeles backdrop, but with dedicated work, it has successfully been done. By patiently believing in my vision, I have had the opportunity to create a movie that is in the vein of Crocodile Dundee. We have filmed at some of the most iconic locations in the world; Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood Sign, Rodeo Drive, and the Santa Monica Pier. It has been an incredibly amazing experience and it will live in cinema history. “I Want To Thank The Academy” is littered with a powerful ensemble of known actors: Rick Peters, Justine Wachsberger, Bruce Katzman, Cami Storm, Katarzyna Wolejnio, Noel Gibson, Steve Krahel, Tarek Tohmne, Jeff Alan Lee, Carolyn Crotty, Samantha Mahurin, Jonathon Williams, Jason Trevits and other notable names. This movie is audacious and amazing and it is from a whole collective of people from all walks of life that have brought this movie together. We represent almost every culture in the world with this incredible and diverse cast and crew and we feel that this movie does also represent the heart of Los Angeles and more so, the dare to dream which is in every single heart.

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

Other artists and creatives. People who have overcome challenges. Los Angeles is filled with immigrants coming to America to chase a dream. I have had profound experience getting to know the struggles of others as they have come here to live a better life. It has humbled me and I am grateful. They are all unique and different in they own way. Los Angles is such a melting pot of culture and so many people of different walks of life. We can always learn from anyone.

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

When I first moved to Los Angeles, director, and actor, Carlos Bernard always took the time to explain directing, storytelling, and life operating on big movie sets. But the greatest nugget I got from him was “you know what looks good on the monitor, and shoot for that”. It just simplified the process of having a very clear target to focus on when you have so many other components around you that can be daunting at times.

What advice would you give to a newbie director who wants to make it in the industry?

Dream, hustle, create, and do not give up.

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

A young Harrison Ford, we both started off as carpenters.

What are your future plans?

I’m currently in the festival phase and distribution of “I Want To Thank The Academy” which is going to be huge. I just got booked to direct a pilot titled “Home”, and then I’m tacking a movie on the Alien phenomena.

Is there is anything else or interesting you can tell us.

This upcoming film is a testimony to anyone out there with a dream. I grew up in the Los Angeles equivalent of South Central LA in the 1990s. The probability of a kid like me growing into the person I am today was slim. My entire childhood was something out of a Lifetime movie, and yet, I made it to Hollywood. What is interesting is how film saved me. It gave me the opportunity to triumph over my past. What is also interesting, is that anyone has the chance to make it. Often, the harder the struggle to get here, the more you have to express in your art.

Disney+ released a new trailer and key art for the original movie “Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers.

Disney+ just released a new trailer and key art for the original movie “Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers.” A reboot comeback 30 years in the making, the hybrid live-action/CG animated action-comedy catches up with the former Disney Afternoon television stars in modern-day Los Angeles. “Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers” premieres May 20, 2022, exclusively on Disney+. “Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers” stars John Mulaney (“Saturday Night Live”) as Chip, Andy Samberg (“Palm Springs”) as Dale, and KiKi Layne (“If Beale Street Could Talk”). Also joining the cast are Will Arnett (“Arrested Development”), Eric Bana (“Dirty John”), Flula Borg (“Pitch Perfect 2”), Dennis Haysbert (“24”), Keegan-Michael Key (“Schmigadoon!”), Tress MacNeille (“The Simpsons”), Tim Robinson (“I Think You Should Leave”), Seth Rogen (“Pam and Tommy”), J.K. Simmons (“Being the Ricardos”), Chris Parnell (“Saturday Night Live”). The film is directed by Akiva Schaffer (“Saturday Night Live”), written by Dan Gregor and Doug Mand (“Crazy Ex-Girlfriend”), and is produced by Todd Lieberman (“Wonder”) and David Hoberman (“Beauty and the Beast”), with Alexander Young (“Extinction”) and Tom Peitzman serving as executive producers. In “Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers,” Chip and Dale are living amongst cartoons and humans in modern-day Los Angeles, but their lives are quite different now. It has been decades since their successful television series was canceled, and Chip (voice of Mulaney) has succumbed to a life of suburban domesticity as an insurance salesman. Dale (voice of Sandberg), meanwhile, has had CGI surgery and works the nostalgia convention circuit, desperate to relive his glory days. When a former castmate mysteriously disappears, Chip and Dale must repair their broken friendship and take on their Rescue Rangers detective personas once again to save their friend’s life.  The Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers Original Soundtrack with score by composer Brian Tyler will be released by Walt Disney Records on May 20.

Walt Disney Studios Makes Splash At CinemaCon In Las Vegas

Walt Disney Studios presentation at CinemaCon 2022 took place at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas earlier today. Disneys head of theatrical distribution, Tony Chambers, along with Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige and Avatar” producer Jon Landau, unveiled the 2022 theatrical release slate, dazzling convention attendees with an exclusive preview of titles from Marvel Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, and 20th Century Studios.

From 20th Century Studios:

The preview included a look at three upcoming releases from 20th Century Studios: The Bobs Burgers Movie, the newest film from David O. Russell (American Hustle,” “Silver Linings Playbook), and James Camerons first follow-up to his sci-fi action-adventure Avatar, the highest-grossing movie of all time. The title of Russells film, which will open in cinemas on November 3, is Amsterdam. CinemaCon attendees were treated to a sizzle reel of footage from the film, which is an original romantic crime epic about three close friends who find themselves at the centre of one of the most shocking secret plots in American history. Based on facts that meet fiction, Amsterdam stars Academy Award® winner Christian Bale, two-time Oscar® nominee Margot Robbie, John David Washington, Alessandro Nivola, Andrea Riseborough, Anya Taylor-Joy, Chris Rock, Matthias Schoenaerts, Michael Shannon, Mike Myers, Taylor Swift, Timothy Olyphant, Zoe Saldana, with Oscar-winner Rami Malek and two-time Academy Award winner Robert De Niro. Written and directed by five-time Oscar® nominee David O. Russell, the film is produced by Arnon Milchan, Matthew Budman, Anthony Katagas, David O. Russell and Christian Bale, with Yariv Milchan, Michael Schaefer and Sam Hanson serving as executive producers. 

The title of the Avatar sequel, which will open in Australian cinemas December 15, is Avatar: The Way of Water. Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, Avatar: The Way of Water begins to tell the story of the Sully family (Jake, Neytiri, and their kids), the trouble that follows them, the lengths they go to keep each other safe, the battles they fight to stay alive,  and the tragedies they endure. Directed by James Cameron and produced by Cameron and Jon Landau, the film stars Zoe Saldana, Sam Worthington, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Cliff Curtis, Joel David Moore, CCH Pounder, Edie Falco, Jemaine Clement, Giovanni Ribisi, and Kate Winslet. To whet audiences appetites, the studio will re-release Avatar in Australian cinemas on September 22.

The teaser trailer, which was screened in 3D for the very first time today and drew highly enthusiastic responses from the CinemaCon audience, will debut exclusively in cinemas with Marvel Studios’ “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness on May 5. In addition, Zoe Saldana, who stars in both Avatar: The Way of Water and Amsterdam, will be receiving the CinemaCon Star of the Year award at the Big Screen Achievement Award Ceremony on Thursday evening, April 28.

The studio also screened the first six minutes of The Bobs Burgers Movie, which opens in Australian cinemas on May 26, for convention attendees. The animated, big-screen, musical comedy-mystery-adventure based on the long-running Emmy®-winning series showcases voice talent, which includes H. Jon Benjamin, Dan Mintz, Eugene Mirman, Larry Murphy, John Roberts, Kristen Schaal, with Zach Galifianakis, and Kevin Kline. The film is directed by Loren Bouchard & Bernard Derriman. The screenplay is by Loren Bouchard & Nora Smith. The producers are Loren Bouchard, Nora Smith, and Janelle Momary-Neely.

From Marvel Studios:

Marvel Studios took the CinemaCon audience on a thrill ride through the Multiverse with footage from Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, which opens in Australian cinemas on May 5. With the film, the MCU unlocks the Multiverse and pushes its boundaries further than ever before. Fans will journey into the unknown with Doctor Strange, who, with the help of mystical allies both old and new, traverses the mind-bending and dangerous alternate realities of the Multiverse to confront a mysterious new adversary.        

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” stars Benedict Cumberbatch, Elizabeth Olsen, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Benedict Wong, Xochitl Gomez, with Michael Stühlbarg, and Rachel McAdams. The film is directed by Sam Raimi, and Kevin Feige is the producer. Louis DEsposito, Victoria Alonso, Eric Hauserman Carroll, Scott Derrickson and Jamie Christopher serve as executive producers. The screenplay was written by Michael Waldron.

From Pixar Animation Studios:

CinemaCon attendees were treated to footage from Disney and Pixars upcoming feature film Lightyear, which opens in Australian cinemas on June 16. A sci-fi action-adventure and the definitive origin story of Buzz Lightyear, the hero who inspired the toy, Lightyear follows the legendary Space Ranger after hes marooned on a hostile planet 4.2 million light-years from Earth alongside his commander and their crew. As Buzz tries to find a way back home through space and time, hes joined by a group of ambitious recruits and his charming robot companion cat, Sox. Complicating matters and threatening the mission is the arrival of Zurg, an imposing presence with an army of ruthless robots and a mysterious agenda. 

The film features the voices of Chris Evans as accomplished Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear, Uzo Aduba as his commander and best friend Alisha Hawthorne, and Peter Sohn as Sox. Keke Palmer, Taika Waititi, and Dale Soules lend their voices to the Junior Zap Patrols Izzy Hawthorne, Mo Morrison, and Darby Steel, respectively, and James Brolin can be heard as the enigmatic Zurg. The voice cast also includes Mary McDonald-Lewis as onboard computer I.V.A.N., Isiah Whitlock Jr. as Commander Burnside, Efren Ramirez as Airman Diaz, and Keira Hairston as Young Izzy. The film is directed by Angus MacLane (co-director Finding Dory), produced by Galyn Susman (Toy Story That Time Forgot), and features a score by award-winning composer Michael Giacchino (The Batman,” “Up)

Director Spotlight: Find Out More About Julie Kalceff

FIRST DAY SEASON 2_Director Julie Kalceff_photo credit Matt Byrne

Julie Kalceff is an Emmy award-winning Australian writer, director, and producer best known for writing, directing, and co-producing the television series First Day. This ground-breaking story of a 12-year-old transgender girl starting high school was the first Australian series to star a transgender actor in the lead role. It sold to multiple territories worldwide including Hulu (US) and CBBC (UK). In 2021, the series won the International Emmy Award for Best Kids Live-Action Series. That same year, First Day won the Rose d’Or, and a GLAAD Media Award (Children and Youth) which honour media for their fair, accurate, and inclusive representations of the LGBTQIA+ community and the issues that affect their lives. The second season of First Day was released in March 2022 and is available on Hulu in the US and ABC iView in Australia. 

In 2020, Julie was part of a “powerhouse female directing team” that spearheaded the feature film anthology drama Here Out West.

Julie first gained international attention when she created, wrote, directed, and produced the global hit digital drama series Starting From Now. Attracting critical and popular acclaim, it is one of the most-watched web series in the world – amassing over 190 million views in 230 countries. The series was also sold to and played on broadcast television in Australia.

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

 Could you please tell our readers a brief background about yourself and how you started in the industry?

I started in the industry as a screenwriter. I used to read a lot as a child. My mum worked in the library at my primary school. Every day after school I’d go to the library and read while I waited for her to finish work. I got my love of books and stories from her and always wanted to be a writer. When I was nearing the end of high school I was encouraged by the teachers at my school and the adults in my life to find a “real” job. They saw writing as a hobby at best and not something that should be pursued as a career. It was considered wise to have “something to fall back on”. Lacking the confidence in myself as a writer and not having the courage to stand up to them, I did what they said and trained as a high school English teacher. It was only after I’d been teaching for 5 years that I realised I had to make a change or I’d regret it for the rest of my life. I resigned from my job and started teaching myself screenwriting. I was accepted into the Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS) in 2001 and completed a two-year Masters of Film and Television (Scriptwriting). While there I had my first taste of directing when I co-directed a short film I’d written called ex.

FIRST DAY SEASON 2_Evie Macdonald, Jackson Evans, Director Julie Kalceff_photo credit Matt Byrne

What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

For me, the most difficult part of the artistic process is sustaining self-belief. You have to be incredibly persistent in this industry in order to make inroads. I spent ten years post-film school struggling to find my place in the industry. It was another three before I had my first TV credit. Those first ten years were especially difficult. I had no idea if I would ever have a breakthrough in my career. The one thing I knew was that if I gave up, that breakthrough would never happen. 

Do you try more to be original or to deliver to viewers what they want?

I don’t think these are an either/or proposition. I believe viewers want to watch screen content that is original. The breakthrough in my career that came ten years post-film school only came about because I decided to make a short-form online drama series called Starting From Now. At the time, people argued that drama wouldn’t work online, that only stand-alone comedic episodes that can be shared amongst friends stood any chance of attracting an audience. We made five seasons of Starting From Now over three years. I wrote and directed all thirty episodes, which quickly became my film school as a director. The series sold to SBS and has accumulated 190 million views to date. In short, there are a lot of viewers who want to watch content they haven’t seen before.

FIRST_DAY_S2_Elena Liu as Olivia and Evie Macdonald as Hannah_photo credit Matt Byrne

Where do you draw your inspiration for your stories?

When I graduated from the AFTRS I thought I had to write films and television series similar to those that already existed. I thought this was the only way to get something made, to land that first credit. The problem with that approach is you’re not writing from the heart. You’re trying to imitate, rather than create. A major turning point for me was when I realised I had to write the types of stories I wanted to see. I had to write from the heart and put myself on the page.

If you could tell your younger self anything, what would it be?

You will find your place in the world. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it.

What was an early experience where you learned that screen content had power?

The audience response to Starting From Now took me by surprise. We received countless messages from viewers saying how much it meant to them to see a show about four women who happened to be lesbians but their sexuality wasn’t the focus of the series. The simple act of seeing complicated and complex characters who weren’t tortured by their sexuality or ostracised by society meant a great deal to our audience who had been historically underrepresented on screen.  You can’t underestimate the power of seeing yourself and people like you on screen. As long as these depictions are multi-dimensional characters who aren’t mined for cheap laughs or trauma, they can lead to a greater sense of self-worth, inclusion, and acceptance.

Screen content is incredibly powerful. It not only has the potential to do a great deal of good but it also has the potential to cause harm. As a filmmaker, I’m responsible for the work I put out into the world. I have to be mindful of the impact of my work and, as such, am very particular about the types of projects I choose to work on.

Can you tell us more about your latest film/television project?

My latest project is First Day (Season 2). First Day is a 4 x half-hour family television series about Hannah Bradford, a transgender girl in her second year of high school. It stars Evie Macdonald as Hannah and is produced by Kirsty Stark (Epic Films) and Kate Butler (Kojo). Kirsty produced the first season, as well as the stand-alone 20 minute episode on which the series was based. Both Seasons 1 and 2 of First Day are available on ABC iView in Australia and Hulu in the US (with more territories to follow).  

Has it won any awards or had any big achievements yet?

Season 1 of First Day won an International Emmy Award, a GLAAD Award for Outstanding Kids & Family Programming, the Rose d’Or for Best Children and Youth Series, a BANFF World Media Festival Rockie Award for Best Live-Action Series (Children 0-10), a Kidscreen Award for Best Live-Action Series, First Prize in the Live-Action Television Category at the Chicago International Children’s Film Festival, and the ATOM Award for Best Children’s Television Program. It was nominated for two AACTA Awards – Best Children’s Program and Best Screenplay in Television, the SDIN (Screen Diversity Inclusion Network) Award and was a finalist in the Screen Producers Australia Awards.

It has sold to multiple territories around the world including the US, UK, Canada, France, Japan, Israel, Brazil, Taiwan, and South Africa.

FIRST DAY SEASON 2_Director Julie Kalceff, Elena Liu, Max Vasquez_photo credit Matt Byrne

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

Find people you trust and work with them whenever possible.

What advice would you give to a newbie writer/director who wants to make it in the industry?

There isn’t just one pathway into the industry. Work hard, never stop learning, treat everyone equally, and, I know it’s difficult, but try not to compare yourself to others. If you keep doing those things, you might just find your own path.     

What are your future plans?

I’m currently in the development of a couple of longer-form TV series and a feature film. I’m also attached to co-direct a feature documentary that’s slated to shoot later this year. The majority of my work has been as a creator/writer/director and while I’d like to continue doing that, I’m also interested in directing more projects I haven’t created or written. I have US management and hope to work in both the US and Australia in the future.

Disney+ Just Released A Brand-New Teaser Trailer For “Obi-Wan Kenobi”

Fifth Brother (Sung Kang) and Stormtroopers in Lucasfilm’s OBI-WAN KENOBI, exclusively on Disney+. © 2022 Lucasfilm Ltd. & ™. All Rights Reserved.

Disney+ just released the teaser trailer for Obi-Wan Kenobi, giving fans an exciting first look at the highly-anticipated limited series, which launches exclusively on the streaming service on May 25.

The story begins 10 years after the dramatic events of Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith where Obi-Wan Kenobi faced his greatest defeatthe downfall and corruption of his best friend and Jedi apprentice, Anakin Skywalker, who turned to the dark side as evil Sith Lord Darth Vader.

The series stars Ewan McGregor, reprising his role as the iconic Jedi Master, and also marks the return of Hayden Christensen in the role of Darth Vader. Joining the cast are Moses Ingram, Joel Edgerton, Bonnie Piesse, Kumail Nanjiani, Indira Varma, Rupert Friend, OShea Jackson Jr., Sung Kang, Simone Kessell and Benny Safdie.

Obi-Wan Kenobi” is directed by Deborah Chow and executive-produced by Kathleen Kennedy, Michelle Rejwan, Deborah Chow, Ewan McGregor and Joby Harold.

Check it out below:

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

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.

An Indie Romantic-Drama Led By Women Is Coming Soon To Australian Cinemas

The first diverse indie romantic drama, Get a Life, Alright, led by women, will be released through Dendy & Wallis Cinemas Australia-wide starting 19th MAY 2022.

Helmed by award-winning director/producer Joy Hopwood who co-wrote the film with Shamini Singhal, Get a Life, Alright had its world premiere, theatrical opening at The Australian High Commission International Film Festival (Singapore) & won Hong Kong’s International Indie Film Festival’s best drama feature.

“Co-writing and producing Get a Life, Alright with Joy, allowed me to relay my experiences within a creative screen space. Joy has very pure motivations to depict diverse realities and does her best to authentically create story realms and characters. She has managed to do so by rounding up a talented cast and crew who are motivated by the same ideals. I’m happy to have collaborated with Joy as she understands that authentic representations are central to meaningful on-screen diversity,” says Singhal.

Get a Life, Alright is a film about a struggling Indian – Australian actor, Nick Singh (Satish Kala) who falls for the leading actress, Tessa Wise (Abril Tolnay) of a music T.V. show after delivering flowers on set. Her best friend, also on the show, Sarah Chen (Aileen Huynh) sets them up for a first date at his father’s Indian restaurant, Ballu’s Bollyfood, played by Here out West’s Sukhraj Deepak. Little do they know that Nick’s jealous brother, Adarsh (Dilshan Rain) tips off journalist, Patrick Pappas (Danny Barton) to run a story about the celebrities in order to gain more publicity for their struggling restaurant. A story about jealousy all thanks to fame and the film highlights the importance of female relationships.

Leading actress, Abril Tonay says, “People should see Get a Life, Alright because it has everything people want in a romantic drama.  It has the added bonus of a few musical numbers that will stay in your head for days. It’s the first Australian Indie film of its kind, led by an incredible team of talented women.”

Leading actor, Satish Kala agrees and says, “Get a life Alight is a movie, which has all the flavour of a Rom-Com/ Family Drama. The film brings together families, friends, and lost romance. It is definitely one of a kind for Australian cinema, which champions diversity and inclusiveness.” 

“Get A Life Alright is a quirky, fun time that has everything from song, dance, and some delicious lamb chops! But most importantly it celebrates love, family, and strength in the face of adversity. It’s a film that brings joy and warms the heart,” says actress Aileen Huynh.

Starring Abril Tolnay, Satish Kala & Aileen Huynh, Dilshan Rain & Here Out West’s Sukhraj Deepak as the main cast. The film’s creative team behind the film includes cinematographer & editor Linda Ung, sound recordist & mixer Lara Cross, set designer Valentina Iastrebova and four female associate producers; Shamini Singhal, Meret Hassanen, Kat Dibley & Katrina Olsen. This modern love story is a celebration of love, and the importance of female friendships and dreams – themes that everyone can relate to. It has a touch of Bollywood in the mix of pop-music culture, as the film is set around a popular music video show.

“Get a Life, Alright is different from all my other films due to the pop-music video sequences and is probably my best work to date. It was made with the support and collaboration of passionate, creative women in a positive, fun spirit and in celebration of independent filmmaking. Being the first diverse romantic drama, musicial – due to the music videos, it’s led by a team of women who were all positive, on the same page, and who were intuitively in sync with one another which was a very special experience to have all these elements combined. It’s a film for everyone, especially those who love chick flicks, romance, pop music & who appreciate indie filmmakers. I’m proud of what my team has achieved with 1% of the budget that you normally see of Hollywood blockbusters.” says Hopwood. The music was produced by Paul Wiltshire whose credits include: Back Street Boys, Human Nature, Delta Goodrem & Vanessa Amorosi, and co-written by Roy Nicolson & Joy Hopwood herself.

Joy was a former Play School presenter who continues to make waves in the film industry as a champion for independent cinema and diversity. Her past films include the first Asian Australian Rom-Com,  Rhapsody of Love, The Script of Life as Writer/ Director/ Producer.

For further information, press kit, and interviews please contact:

Joy Hopwood | 0408 1969 50 | joyhouseproductions@gmail.com

Reviews

“A great story with a lot of heart!” 4 out of 5 – Andy Trieu (SBS)

“This is a cute and easy to watch rom-com, with the added important elements of representation, diversity, and visibility. In a time when the world is getting sick and tired of white beachgoers and surfies, “Get a Life, Alright”, ticks all the boxes of being well balanced on the social issue side with a love of emotion and lovey-dovey meet-cute moments.

The premise of the film is also easy to understand, it’s simple and adds to the depth of the film. The lead is an Indian Australian man – Nick Singh, whose ultimate goal is to be a successful actor, and works odd jobs at a florist and his father’s restaurants to make ends meet. He later falls in love with the lead Tessa Wise, of a TV series he passed an audition for in a guest role, and it’s entertaining to see the character development, but also the romance, which is simple, cute, and pure.

The film was well written and the scenes flowed fluidly without any plot holes. Back to the issues of representation, diversity, and visibility for the on-screen – we are able to witness a darker-skinned South Asian man (which we rarely see in Australian film and TV) trying to pursue a career that is traditionally not seen as lucrative in Asian families. THIS is probably one of the most significant milestones for the film.

Great film, easy romance and meet cute situations and enjoyable to watch!”

4.5 out of 5 – Erin Chew, Freelance Writer (HuffPost / AsAmNews / FlixAsia and Being Asian Australian)

“If you’re in the mood for a light-hearted rom-com that is set in Australia but doesn’t star any beaches or blondes, you’re in luck. ‘Get a Life, Alright’ is that rare breed of Australian independent film that is culturally diverse without being dark. And the diversity here isn’t just about having a token non-white character who is the funny or nerdy sidekick to the gorgeous male/female protagonists. Diversity is at the very heart of the story as it centres on Nick Singh, a young Indian-Australian man who works part-time as a florist and at his dad’s restaurants while harbouring aspirations for an acting career. He falls for Tessa Wise, one of the female leads in a hit TV series where he also later lands a guest role. Their love story is marred by classic obstacles like envious siblings and miscommunication, but there is a lot of fun and some fabulous musicals on the way to happily ever after.

When exploring non-white cultures in Australian cinema, it is easy to fall into the trap of going for the easily identifiable stereotypes instead of representing diverse characters as full-fledged individuals. The script-writers of ‘Get a Life…’ negotiate this by including some features associated with India, such as Bollywood and curry, but by also being playful with these inclusions. Nick’s dad’s restaurant, for instance, is called ‘Bolly-food’ and Nick’s stint in India sees him starring in a beer commercial.

Overall it’s a great effort at representation and good humour!”

4 out of 5 – Sukhmani Khorana, Writer / Author / Academic

“Joy Hopwood has a penchant for making diverse romantic comedies. Unlike Crazy Rich Asians, where the notch is cranked up to full technicolour decadence, Joy’s films are quiet, charming bubblers filled with rather recognisable, relatable (and Australian) characters. However, this is Joy’s most glamour-set film – a musical drama featuring striking Bollywood numbers. Her main leads Nick (Satish Kala) and Tessa (Abril Tolnay) have a lovely chemistry, and to see the diverse cast was a delight. Without giving too much away, this film highlights the importance of female friendships and of course, the power of love in all its forms. Shamini Singhal and Hopwood paired up as a team to write this comedy, and the viewer can see what a lovely working relationship they had through the sheer joy infused in this production.”

Five stars – Alice Pung, Writer / Author / Screenwriter / Academic

Red Carpet Rundown: ‘The Drover’s Wife: The Legend of Molly Johnson’ Cast In Ritz Cinemas

Last Thursday, 28th April 2022 was the official premiere and gala screening of The Drover’s Wife: The Legend of Molly Johnson. The red carpet attendees at the Ritz Cinemas, Randwick included Leah Purcell (Writer/Director/Producer/Molly Johnson) and cast members Rob Collins, Malachi Dower-Roberts, and Tammy McIntosh as well as producers Bain Stewart, David Jowsey, and Greer Simpkin.

The red carpet attendees also included VIP guests Narelda Jacobs (Moderator; 10 News, NITV); Miranda Tapsell (Top End Wedding, The Dry, The Sapphires); Susie Porter (Gold, Wentworth, The Monkeys Mask); and Rahel Romahn (Australian Gangster, Here Out West, Mr. Inbetween).

Check out the photos below courtesy of Dave Choo.

About The Drover’s Wife: The Legend of Molly Johnson

Molly Johnson’s husband is away droving sheep, leaving her alone to care for their four children in the remote Snowy Mountains. Despite being heavily pregnant, Molly keeps various threats, from nature and other people, at bay. But when Yadaka, an Aboriginal man on the run from white law enforcement, intrudes on the sanctuary she has carved out, the brutal hardships and secrets that have followed them both throughout their lives must be confronted.