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

Posted on by

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

Returning Crew and New Adventures

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

Season 1 Highlights and Anticipation for Season 2

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

Production and Support

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on by

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

About the Film

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

Synopsis:

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

Release Date: October 24, 2024

Cast:

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

Directed By: Ellen Kuras

Written By: Liz Hannah, Marion Hume, John Collee

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

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

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

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

Disney+ Announces Streaming Release of “Young Woman and the Sea” on July 19

Posted on by

Disney’s highly anticipated film “Young Woman and the Sea,” recounting the remarkable true story of Trudy Ederle, the first woman to successfully swim the English Channel, is set to debut on Disney+ starting July 19.

Starring Daisy Ridley in the lead role, “Young Woman and the Sea” chronicles the inspiring journey of Trudy Ederle, born in 1905 to immigrant parents in New York City. Despite facing immense challenges and societal barriers, Ederle defied expectations with the unwavering support of her older sister and dedicated trainers. Her relentless pursuit led her to join the Olympic swimming team and ultimately achieve the historic feat of swimming the daunting 21-mile stretch from France to England.

Joining Ridley in the cast are Tilda Cobham-Hervey, Stephen Graham, Kim Bodnia, Christopher Eccleston, and Glenn Fleshler. The film is directed by Joachim Rønning and written by Jeff Nathanson, adapted from the book “Young Woman and the Sea: How Trudy Ederle Conquered the English Channel and Inspired the World” by Glenn Stout.

Jerry Bruckheimer, Chad Oman, and Jeff Nathanson serve as producers, with John G. Scotti, Daisy Ridley, and Joachim Rønning as executive producers.

About “Young Woman and the Sea”

“Young Woman and the Sea” is a captivating portrayal of courage, determination, and the triumph of the human spirit. It celebrates Trudy Ederle’s indomitable will and her historic achievement that inspired generations around the world.

Streaming Debut

“Young Woman and the Sea” will be available for streaming exclusively on Disney+ from July 19. Audiences can look forward to a compelling narrative, stellar performances, and breathtaking cinematography that capture the essence of Ederle’s extraordinary journey.

Join the Journey

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the incredible story of Trudy Ederle on Disney+. Experience her courage, determination, and the historic swim that captivated the world. Check out the trailer below:

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

Posted on by

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.