It’s Official: SXSW Sydney® Announces Winners Of The 2024 Screen Awards

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A Grand Mockery, Thou Shalt Not Steal, Pools, Ruby and Tom Take a Cake to a Wedding (Photo supplied by Harriet Dixon-Smith, NIXCO)

The 2024 Screen Festival, presented by IHG Hotels & Resorts, concluded in spectacular fashion as SXSW Sydney® announced the winners of its prestigious Screen Awards. Leading the pack was the Australian feature film A Grand Mockery, which took home the coveted Best Feature Film award.

Directed by Samuel Dixon and Adam C. Briggs, A Grand Mockery tells the story of Josie (portrayed by Dixon), whose mundane existence takes a strange and surreal turn as his psychic struggles deform him, sending him wandering through the rainforest hinterlands of Queensland. Shot on super-8 film, the movie harks back to underground filmmaking, offering a visually striking and tonally playful experience. The film evolves from morbid comic realism into a metaphysical journey, structured as a unique diptych that leaves audiences both fascinated and unsettled.

The SXSW Sydney 2024 Audience Award went to Pools, the debut feature by Sam Hayes. This coming-of-age drama features a stellar cast, including Odessa A’zion, Mason Gooding, and Ariel Winter. Pools follows Kennedy (A’zion), who, after failing her sophomore year of college, embarks on a pool-hopping adventure through Chicago’s wealthy Lake Forest estates. What begins as a lighthearted quest soon transforms into a profound night of self-discovery as secrets are revealed.

In the episodic category, the Stan Original Series Thou Shalt Not Steal by visionary director Dylan Rivers earned the Best Episodic award. Set in 1980s Central and South Australia, the eight-episode series follows Robyn (Sherry-Lee Watson), a young Aboriginal delinquent who escapes detention to uncover a long-hidden family secret. Along the way, she is joined by awkward teen Gidge (Will McDonald) as they navigate perilous outback landscapes, while being pursued by a cast of intense characters, including Miranda Otto’s Maxine and Noah Taylor’s Robert, a fraudulent preacher.

In the short film category, two remarkable films tied for Best Short Film: Fishtank, directed by Wendi Tang (China/USA), and Try to Remember, Please, directed by Maria Dudko (Australia). Fishtank explores the surreal life of Jules (Tiffany Chu), who, despite her year of sobriety, finds herself inexplicably vomiting goldfish. Try to Remember, Please offers a visceral look at how violence can be erased from memory, and how those who wish to deny it weaponize that erasure.

Best Music Video was awarded to Pillhouse, by Psychedelic Porn Crumpets, directed by Ollie Jones (UK). This trippy visual treat captivated judges and audiences alike.

In the student category, Ruby and Tom Take a Cake to a Wedding, directed by Australian filmmaker Jack McTaggart, earned the Best Student Film award. The short film follows Ruby, an ambitious cake-maker, and her detached partner Tom, as they navigate a chaotic journey to deliver a wedding cake, only to be thwarted by their self-absorbed family and friends.

The 2024 Screen Festival wrapped up with Two Hands: A Live Script Read, a celebration of the 25th anniversary of the beloved Australian comedy/crime film Two Hands. Hosted by Alexei Toliopoulos and Gen Fricker, the event featured an all-star line-up of comedic talent, including Susoe Youssef, Clare Cavanagh, Danielle Walker, and Zach Ruane, in a hilarious live reimagining of the classic script.

As always, SXSW Sydney 2024 proved to be an extraordinary showcase of groundbreaking talent and bold storytelling, solidifying its place as a major cultural event in the Australian and global film landscape.

This article was sourced from a press release sent by NIXCO

A New Chapter in Film: FilmCentral Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief Launches Insightful Book on Industry Challenges

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For the past few years, FilmCentral Magazine’s editor-in-chief has been on an immersive journey, delving deep into the complexities and challenges faced by the screen industry. Through extensive research, data collection, and personal experiences, she has uncovered the unique struggles professionals across the industry encounter. She’s had countless meaningful conversations with colleagues, peers, and industry veterans, who have shared their stories, highlighting the daily difficulties they face in an ever-evolving and competitive environment.

Her passion for understanding these challenges didn’t just stop at collecting data and listening to others. She took a proactive approach by developing and testing strategies tailored to her own life and career. These strategies, designed to navigate the demanding nature of the screen industry, have been rigorously implemented and refined over time. She’s proud to say that her efforts have paid off, as these approaches make a significant difference in her life and work.

Recognising that these challenges are not unique to her, she sought to extend her insights and solutions beyond her own experiences. She worked closely with a diverse range of individuals and organisations to further explore and develop strategies that could be applicable to a wider audience. Her collaborations extended to companies, organisations, and institutions that play a pivotal role in shaping the screen industry, allowing her to identify solutions that could have a broader impact.

Her journey and findings have now been compiled into a comprehensive book that gathers all the knowledge, insights, and practical tools she has acquired. The book is designed to be a resource for industry professionals, offering not only valuable insights but also tangible strategies that can create a meaningful impact. Whether it’s addressing work-life balance, navigating the pressure of deadlines, or finding a voice in a crowded space, the book aims to provide practical guidance that can resonate with her friends, colleagues, and peers across the screen industry.

Sneak Peek: The Cover Reveal!

In anticipation of the book’s release, the editor-in-chief has shared an exclusive sneak peek of the cover—a striking design that reflects the essence of her work and dedication. The book, which promises to be a must-read for those navigating the screen industry, will officially be available on Amazon from the 5th of November.

This project has been a labour of love, and she credits the collective support of her community in bringing it to life. From the people who shared their stories, to the companies and organisations that partnered with her, to the editors and proofreaders who refined the manuscript, every step of this journey has been a collaborative effort.

A special shout-out goes to all those who have contributed to this milestone, and she looks forward to sharing her work with the world, hoping that it will offer both inspiration and practical tools to help others thrive in the screen industry.

Timothée Chalamet Transforms into Bob Dylan in James Mangold’s A COMPLETE UNKNOWN

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Exciting news for film and music enthusiasts alike: the highly anticipated trailer for James Mangold’s latest film, A COMPLETE UNKNOWN, has just been released. Set against the backdrop of New York City’s vibrant 1960s music scene, the film explores the life of a young Bob Dylan and his rise to fame. Starring the talented Timothée Chalamet as the enigmatic singer-songwriter, this movie promises to captivate audiences when it hits Australian cinemas on January 23, 2025.

A Glimpse into the Story

The film takes us back to New York in the early 1960s, a time of cultural revolution and musical innovation. An enigmatic 19-year-old from Minnesota arrives in the West Village, guitar in hand, ready to leave his mark on the American music scene. With raw talent and a unique voice that challenges the status quo, he quickly rises through the ranks of the folk movement.

But the story of A COMPLETE UNKNOWN isn’t just about the meteoric rise of a music icon; it delves into the personal relationships and internal struggles that shaped him during this time. As he navigates his newfound fame and the complexities of his intimate relationships, Dylan’s restless spirit drives him to challenge the folk music establishment. In a controversial move that shocks the world and reshapes the music industry, he takes a bold step that reverberates beyond the United States, leaving an indelible mark on global culture.

Timothée Chalamet: Transforming Into Bob Dylan

Academy Award® and BAFTA nominee Timothée Chalamet steps into the shoes of the legendary Bob Dylan, not only acting in the role but also singing. Known for his performances in films like Call Me by Your Name and Dune, Chalamet’s portrayal is set to showcase his versatility as he captures the essence of a young Dylan, his enigmatic persona, and his revolutionary spirit. The trailer offers a first look at Chalamet’s transformation, highlighting his vocal performance and the raw energy he brings to the screen.

Chalamet’s commitment to the role extends beyond acting, as he also tackles the challenge of performing Dylan’s iconic songs. Fans of the star and music lovers alike can expect an authentic and moving portrayal that brings the essence of Dylan’s early years to life.

The Vision Behind the Film: James Mangold

Searchlight Pictures presents A COMPLETE UNKNOWN, directed by the acclaimed James Mangold. An Academy Award® nominee, Mangold is no stranger to biographical dramas. His previous works, such as Walk the Line (which explored the life of Johnny Cash) and Ford v Ferrari, showcase his talent for capturing the spirit of real-life figures and their impact on culture. Mangold’s vision for A COMPLETE UNKNOWN is clear: to present an electric, true-to-life story that not only chronicles the rise of Bob Dylan but also explores the turbulent cultural landscape that defined the 1960s.

Mangold’s keen eye for period detail is evident in the trailer, which vividly recreates the smoky clubs, crowded streets, and artistic energy of New York’s West Village. His direction aims to immerse audiences in the era, making them feel the excitement and tension that surrounded Dylan’s rise and his eventual transformation of the music industry.

A Star-Studded Cast

The film features an impressive ensemble cast, with some of the finest talent in Hollywood bringing this iconic story to life:

  • Timothée Chalamet (Call Me by Your Name, Dune) as Bob Dylan, the revolutionary young artist whose journey the film chronicles.
  • Edward Norton, an Academy Award® and BAFTA nominee known for his roles in Fight Club and Birdman, plays a significant role, adding depth and gravitas to the film’s narrative.
  • Elle Fanning (The Great, Maleficent) joins the cast, further enhancing the film’s star power. Fanning’s versatility as an actress is sure to shine in this period piece, as she portrays one of the key figures in Dylan’s life.
  • Monica Barbaro (Top Gun: Maverick) and Boyd Holbrook (Logan, The Bikeriders) also contribute their talents, playing pivotal roles that intertwine with Dylan’s story.
  • Dan Fogler (Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, The Walking Dead) and Norbert Leo Butz (Dan in Real Life) add further layers to the narrative, while Scoot McNairy (Argo, 12 Years A Slave) brings his unique style to the screen.

This ensemble not only promises powerful performances but also ensures that the film has a wide appeal, drawing in viewers from various backgrounds and interests.

A Journey Through Music and Cultural Change

  • A COMPLETE UNKNOWN* isn’t just a biopic; it’s a deep dive into the revolutionary energy of the 1960s and the transformative power of music. It highlights how Dylan’s arrival in New York coincided with a cultural upheaval that was reshaping society. Through the film, audiences will witness the electric atmosphere of the West Village—a hub for artists, poets, musicians, and activists—where Dylan’s sound and message resonated with a generation hungry for change.

As Dylan grows restless with the traditional folk scene, the film captures his evolution as he begins to push boundaries and challenge expectations. His decision to shift away from folk music—a move that many viewed as controversial—becomes a pivotal moment in the film, illustrating his commitment to artistic authenticity and innovation. This choice not only impacts the music industry but also becomes a defining moment for countercultural movements worldwide.

Australian Release Date: Mark Your Calendars

  • A COMPLETE UNKNOWN* is set to premiere in Australian cinemas on January 23, 2025. Fans of James Mangold’s previous work, Bob Dylan’s music, or simply great storytelling won’t want to miss this cinematic event. The film promises to be a must-see for anyone interested in music history, cultural transformation, and the life of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.

With a trailer that teases powerful performances, stunning visuals, and an enthralling story, A COMPLETE UNKNOWN is poised to be a major film event. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Dylan or new to his music, this movie offers a chance to experience the magic and turbulence of the 1960s through the eyes of an artist who changed it all.

Warwick Thornton to Direct Epic Australian Film First Warrior with Sam Worthington and Jason Clarke Joining Cast

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Warwick Thornton. Photo by Ben King.

Camera d’Or award-winning director Warwick Thornton, known for Samson & Delilah and The New Boy, has signed on to direct the upcoming feature film First Warrior, an epic tale about the Aboriginal resistance fighter Pemulwuy.

Pemulwuy, a Bidjigal man from the Sydney tribes, led a 12-year resistance against British settlers during the late 1700s, defending his people’s traditional lands as Australia was colonised. First Warrior will bring this powerful story to the big screen, supported by the Bidjigal, Dharawal, and Dharug Elders, ensuring the cultural significance and authenticity of the film.

The all-Indigenous core creative team is led by Thornton, with Jon Bell (The Moogai, Cleverman) as writer and Andrew Dillon, a Dharug and Gomeroi descendent, as writer-producer through his Indigenous-owned production company, That’s-A-Wrap Productions.

Joining the team are notable Australian actors Sam Worthington (Avatar, Hacksaw Ridge) and Jason Clarke (Oppenheimer, Zero Dark Thirty), with a search underway for actors to portray Pemulwuy and Bennelong, the latter of whom was famously kidnapped by Governor Arthur Phillip to start a dialogue with Indigenous Australians.

The film also has the backing of renowned screenwriters Stuart Beattie (Collateral, Pirates of the Caribbean) and Phillip Noyce (Rabbit-Proof Fence, Salt), ensuring First Warrior is set to be an epic and culturally resonant production.

Thornton said, “I am so honoured to be a part of this amazing film. It’s an important story with an awesome script and legendary actors”.

Andrew Dillon said: “It has been a lifelong goal of mine to have our Indigenous warriors celebrated on the silver screen. I can’t wait for audiences to not only experience Warwick’s vision for this story but to leave the cinema with a newfound appreciation of Australia’s shared history”.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Harriet Dixon-Smith of Nixco

Marvel Just Dropped the Thunderbolts Teaser Trailer and Poster—And We’re Already Obsessed

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Hold onto your popcorn, Marvel fans! The first teaser trailer and poster for Thunderbolts just dropped, and it’s giving us all the vibes. This isn’t your typical superhero team-up—Thunderbolts is bringing together the MCU’s least expected (and most chaotic) misfits, and we’re already counting down the days until it hits Aussie cinemas.

Let’s break it down. Florence Pugh returns as the fierce (and very over-it) assassin Yelena Belova, and she’s joined by some familiar MCU faces:

  • Bucky Barnes (yep, Sebastian Stan is back to brood),
  • Red Guardian (David Harbour doing what he does best—being hilarious),
  • John Walker (Wyatt Russell, still trying to redeem himself?),
  • Taskmaster (Olga Kurylenko is here for revenge),
  • Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen bringing the spooky vibes), and
  • Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus being shady as ever).

Directed by indie favourite Jake Schreier, with Marvel Studios legend Kevin Feige producing (obviously), this film is shaping up to be one of the most unexpected and hilarious MCU projects to date. It’s like someone said, “What if we took the most random, emotionally unstable characters and made them work together? Chaos!”

And we are HERE for it.

Oh, and did we mention that Scarlett Johansson is one of the executive producers? Casual.

Thunderbolts is set to hit Aussie cinemas on May 1, 2025, and if the teaser is anything to go by, it’s going to be wild, hilarious, and absolutely epic. Buckle up, Marvel fans—it’s gonna be a bumpy ride!

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

Transformers One Rolls Out in Style: Hemsworth and Hollywood Cast Hit Sydney Red Carpet

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Chris Hemsworth and Brian Tyree Henry attend the Australian Premiere of “Transformers One” at IMAX Sydney on September 11, 2024, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

 

Hollywood star Chris Hemsworth and his wife, Elsa Pataky, made a dazzling appearance at the star-studded premiere of Transformers One alongside their twin sons, Sasha and Tristan. The family turned heads as they walked the red carpet, exuding effortless style.

Hemsworth, known globally for his portrayal of Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, wore a striking blue suit, which he paired with a simple grey T-shirt, giving him a relaxed yet stylish look. Adding a touch of flair, he accessorised with a silver necklace, a matching watch, and several rings, elevating his ensemble to modern chic.

Pataky, a model and actress, radiated elegance in a silk set by Zimmermann, one of Australia’s most iconic fashion houses. The flowing outfit accentuated her natural beauty, and her presence on the red carpet perfectly complemented Hemsworth’s effortless style. Sasha and Tristan, the couple’s twin sons, also captured the attention of the cameras, walking confidently alongside their parents, completing the family’s picture-perfect red carpet moment.

Henry made a bold fashion statement on the red carpet, dressed in a grey suit that was topped off with a long coat. The coat featured a dramatic and eye-catching print of Megatron on the back, paying homage to the character he voices in the film. This striking outfit was a fan-favourite, blending fashion and character in a unique and memorable way.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 11: Chris Hemsworth and Brian Tyree Henry attend the Australian Premiere of “Transformers One” at IMAX Sydney on September 11, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

A Star-Studded Affair in Sydney

For the Sydney premiere of Transformers One, it was just Chris Hemsworth, alongside co-star Bryan Tyree Henry and the film’s director Josh Cooley, who took centre stage. Hemsworth voices the iconic character Orion Pax, the young Autobot who would eventually evolve into Optimus Prime, the supreme commander of the Autobots. Meanwhile, Henry lends his voice to the powerful Megatron, the feared leader of the Decepticons.

The premiere was a significant event, marking another chapter in the globally beloved Transformers franchise. Bryan Tyree Henry made a bold statement with his outfit, donning a grey suit paired with a long coat. The highlight of his look was the dramatic print of Megatron featured on the back of the coat, a nod to his villainous character in the film.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 11: Chris Hemsworth, Elsa Pataky, Tristan Hemsworth and Sasha Hemsworth attend the Australian Premiere of “Transformers One” at IMAX Sydney on September 11, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

An Epic Origin Story: Transformers One

Transformers One takes audiences back to the origins of two of the most iconic characters in the Transformers universe—Optimus Prime and Megatron. Long before they were enemies locked in an eternal battle for supremacy, they were brothers-in-arms, bound by friendship and a shared vision for Cybertron. The film explores how their bond was shattered, leading to a civil war that would alter the course of their planet forever.

In this first-ever fully CG-animated Transformers movie, viewers will witness the rise of these legendary characters in a visually stunning and action-packed narrative. The untold story of Optimus Prime, once known as Orion Pax, and Megatron is finally brought to life in an engaging and emotionally charged adventure.

Directed by Josh Cooley, the film boasts an all-star voice cast, featuring some of Hollywood’s biggest names. Chris Hemsworth leads the pack as the young Orion Pax, while Bryan Tyree Henry gives a gripping performance as Megatron. Joining them are Scarlett Johansson, who voices Elita, Keegan-Michael Key as Bumblebee, Steve Buscemi as Strika, and Jon Hamm as Sentinel Prime. Laurence Fishburne also stars in the film as Alpha Trion, adding to the impressive roster of talent.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 11: Chris Hemsworth and Brian Tyree Henry attend the Australian Premiere of “Transformers One” at IMAX Sydney on September 11, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

A Film with Strong Creative Foundations

Transformers One is written by Andrew Barrer and Gabriel Ferrari, and Eric Pearson also penned the screenplay. Barrer and Ferrari previously worked on Ant-Man and the Wasp, showcasing their expertise in action-packed storytelling that seamlessly blends humour, emotion, and larger-than-life battles. Director Josh Cooley, best known for his work on Toy Story 4, brings his unique vision to the project, ensuring the movie appeals to both long-time Transformers fans and newcomers alike.

With its star-studded cast, emotionally charged story, and breathtaking animation, Transformers One promises to be a cinematic spectacle. The film not only delves into the origins of two of the most iconic characters in the Transformers universe but also provides a fresh perspective on the friendship that ultimately ignited the war that tore their world apart.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 11: Zev Foreman, Lorenzo di Bonaventura, Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry and Josh Cooley attend the Australian Premiere of “Transformers One” at IMAX Sydney on September 11, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by James Gourley/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

The Anticipation Builds

Fans of the franchise and general moviegoers alike eagerly anticipate the release of Transformers One. With the combination of stunning CG animation, an emotional narrative, and the voice talents of some of Hollywood’s finest, the film is expected to be a hit. The dynamic between Optimus Prime and Megatron, once allies and now enemies, will be explored like never before, offering audiences a deeper understanding of their motivations and struggles.

With the film set for release soon, the buzz surrounding Transformers One is only expected to grow. Fans can look forward to an epic, action-packed adventure filled with heart, history, and the high-octane battles that have made the Transformers franchise a global phenomenon.

As Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky made their exit from the premiere, hand in hand with their children, it was clear that Transformers One is set to be a standout film not only in Hemsworth’s impressive career but in the Transformers universe as a whole.

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

Casting Guild of Australia Awards Set to Return to Sydney in November 2024

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The annual Casting Guild of Australia (CGA) Awards Ceremony is returning to Sydney this year. The prestigious invite-only event will be held at the Establishment Hotel on Friday, November 15, 2024. Nominees for the awards will be announced in late October.

Launched in 2015, the CGA Awards is the only casting awards ceremony in the southern hemisphere that celebrates and recognises casting across all mediums, including film, television, television commercials, theatre, new media, and reality. The annual Awards Ceremony seeks to acknowledge and support the critical role casting directors play in bringing together great casting opportunities on a national and international stage.

CGA President Thea McLeod said, “We are thrilled to announce the Casting Guild Award nominations for 2024! Our role is like piecing together a brilliant puzzle—understanding each character’s unique needs and finding the perfect actor to fit each piece. By working closely with directors and producers, we bring their vision to life and make the script truly shine. It’s where the magic happens.

This year has been nothing short of amazing, with a fantastic array of talent showcased in the awards submissions. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of casting directors, who are often the unsung heroes making those brilliant performances possible. We’re incredibly excited to come together at this year’s CGA Awards to celebrate the outstanding work of Australian casting directors and the fantastic contributions they’ve made over the past year.”

2024 CGA AWARD CATEGORIES:

  • Best Casting in a Feature Film
  • Best Casting in a Short Film
  • Best Casting in a TV Comedy
  • Best Casting in a TV Drama 
  • Best Casting in a Telemovie & Miniseries
  • Achievement in Casting
  • Best Casting in a Theatre Production
  • Best Casting in a TVC – Community
  • Best Casting in a TVC

The CGA will also name ten extraordinary actors with the potential to break out on the world stage as the 2024 CGA Rising Stars. The Rising Stars will be announced in early November, and recipients will be interviewed by some of Australia’s top casting directors on CGA’s social pages before the official presentation on November 15.

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

Dan Ewing Cast as Aussie Lead in Exciting New US-Australia Film Collaboration

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Dan Ewing, known for his roles in Home and Away, SAS Australia, and Love and Monsters, is set to take on the Australian lead role in the upcoming film Rembrandt Mansion. This thrilling project is a collaboration between Australian and American filmmakers, with US A-list stars to be announced later. Joining Dan Ewing in the cast are fellow Australian actors Daniel James and Brodie Henson. Daniel James will portray Mike, a shock jock radio announcer in the upcoming film Patched, directed by Steve Mann. Brodie Henson recently appeared as Tito in Deep Red Water, filmed on the Gold Coast and directed by Danial Donai.

With Hollywood increasingly turning to Australia as a prime filming location, and new studios popping up across the country, Rembrandt Mansion aims to strengthen film industry ties between Australia and the US. The film is a novel-to-screen adaptation spearheaded by American film producer and novelist Alexandria Altman. The project is a joint venture between Altman’s Rembrandt Mansion LLC and SWG Entertainment, based in Queensland’s Scenic Rim and Inverell in New South Wales.

Alexandria Altman, often likened to authors Stephanie Meyer and Anne Rice for her unique and captivating writing style, is leading the US production team. The team also includes legendary composer and music director Alan Howarth, known for his work on the Star Trek and Halloween franchises, as well as Escape From New York. With over 160 films to his name, Howarth’s involvement promises an epic score. Screenwriter Melody Rowland, whose credits include Hill Street Blues, Full House, and Growing Pains, has also joined the team, adding her expertise to what is expected to be a Hollywood blockbuster.

On the Australian side, the production team includes Mike Donnelly, Ross Wohlsen, and Pamela Wohlsen of SWG Entertainment. More announcements about the project and the Australian team are expected soon, with updates to be available on the SWG Entertainment website.

Dan Ewing’s casting in Rembrandt Mansion marks another significant milestone in his career, as well as an exciting step forward in the growing collaboration between the Australian and American film industries. Keep an eye out for more details on this highly anticipated film!

This article was sourced from a media release supplied by Pam Wohlsen of SWG Entertainment (image supplied)

Award-Winning Thriller ‘THE MOOGAI’ Set for Australian Release on 31 October 2024

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Maslow Entertainment has announced that the highly anticipated First Nations psychological horror film, THE MOOGAI, will be released in Australian cinemas on 31 October 2024. The film had its World Premiere earlier this year at the Sundance Film Festival and its Australian Premiere at the 2024 Sydney Film Festival, where it won the GIO Audience Award for Best Australian Feature. It was also recently screened at the 2024 Melbourne International Film Festival and is currently a finalist for the film prize at this month’s 2024 CinefestOZ Film Festival in Western Australia.

THE MOOGAI stars a stellar cast, including Shari Sebbens (The Sapphires, Thor: Love and Thunder), Meyne Wyatt (We Are Still Here), Tessa Rose (Top End Wedding), Clarence Ryan (Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga), Toby Leonard Moore (Mank), and Bella Heathcote (Relic, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies). The film is produced by Kristina Ceyton and Samantha Jennings of Causeway Films (The Babadook, Talk To Me) and Mitchell Stanley of No Coincidence Media (We Are Still Here).

Directed by Jon Bell in his feature film debut, THE MOOGAI is based on his acclaimed short film of the same name. This psychological horror intertwines the harrowing history of the Stolen Generations with First Nations storytelling. For Indigenous Australians, the term “Moogai” can mean “boogeyman,” among other things.

The film follows Sarah and Fergus, a young Aboriginal couple celebrating the birth of their second child. However, their joy quickly turns to dread when Sarah begins to see a malevolent spirit she believes is trying to steal her baby. While Fergus, who cannot see the spirit, wants to trust her, he grows increasingly concerned as Sarah becomes more unhinged. The central question becomes: is the child-stealing spirit real, or is Sarah herself the greatest threat to her family?

THE MOOGAI received significant production investment from Screen Australia’s First Nations Department in collaboration with Screen NSW through the Made in NSW Fund and Regional Filming Fund. Additional financing was provided by Spectrum Films, Kojo Studios, Anahat Films, Salmira Productions, and Head Gear Films, with post-production, digital, and visual effects supported by Screen NSW.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Nixco

Paramount Pictures Releases Thrilling New Trailer for “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” Featuring Keanu Reeves as Shadow the Hedgehog

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Paramount Pictures has just released the highly anticipated trailer for “Sonic the Hedgehog 3,” offering fans a first look at the epic showdown between Sonic (voiced by Ben Schwartz) and his formidable new enemy, Shadow the Hedgehog, voiced by none other than Keanu Reeves. The trailer teases a high-stakes battle that will take the franchise to new heights, promising an action-packed adventure full of surprises.

Synopsis

This holiday season, Sonic returns to the big screen for his most thrilling adventure yet. The beloved blue hedgehog, along with his friends Knuckles and Tails, faces an unprecedented challenge as they confront Shadow, a mysterious new villain with powers that far exceed anything they have encountered before. With their skills and abilities pushed to their limits, Team Sonic is forced to seek an unlikely alliance in order to stop Shadow and protect the planet from impending danger.

Star-Studded Cast and Crew

Director Jeff Fowler returns to helm the third instalment of the Sonic franchise, alongside a star-studded cast featuring Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Idris Elba, Colleen O’Shaughnessey, Natasha Rothwell, Shemar Moore, Adam Pally, Lee Majdoub, and newcomers Alyla Browne and Krysten Ritter. The film introduces Keanu Reeves to the franchise as Shadow the Hedgehog, bringing his iconic voice and gravitas to the role of Sonic’s new arch-nemesis.

Production Details

“Sonic the Hedgehog 3” is produced by Neal H. Moritz, Toby Ascher, Toru Nakahara, and Hitoshi Okuno, with Haruki Satomi, Shuji Utsumi, Yukio Sugino, Jeff Fowler, Tommy Gormley, and Tim Miller serving as executive producers. The screenplay, crafted by Pat Casey, Josh Miller, and John Whittington, is based on the popular SEGA video game series that has captured the hearts of fans worldwide.

This new chapter in the Sonic saga is brought to life by a collaboration between Original Film, Marza Animation Planet, and Blur Studio, in association with Sega Sammy Group. The story, penned by Pat Casey and Josh Miller, promises to blend humour, heart, and high-octane action, staying true to the spirit of the beloved video game franchise.

Anticipation Builds for a Holiday Release

As the release date approaches, anticipation for “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” is reaching fever pitch. The film is expected to deliver a thrilling cinematic experience, with stunning animation, compelling characters, and a storyline that will captivate audiences of all ages. With Keanu Reeves joining the cast as Shadow, the stakes have never been higher for Sonic and his friends.

“Sonic the Hedgehog 3” races into theatres this holiday season. Fans can look forward to an unforgettable adventure that promises to be the franchise’s most exciting instalment yet. Don’t miss this epic showdown between Sonic and Shadow—mark your calendars now!