The Holocaust’s horrors were immortalized on screen by Steven Spielberg’s Schindler’s List, one of the greatest films ever made about Oskar Schindler’s mission to save over a thousand mostly Polish-Jewish refugees. The film became a cultural icon thanks to the brilliant black-and-white cinematography of Janusz Kamiński and the screenplay by Steven Zaillian.
The film, which starred Liam Neeson as Oskar Schindler, has a ton of interesting behind-the-scenes material because making a 195-minute epic is not a small feat. Indeed, Neeson’s career was greatly impacted by the movie. The role that really set Neeson apart is his portrayal of Oskar Schindler. Even though Kevin Costner and Harrison Ford both have impressive acting resumes, Neeson’s performance even puts him above them.
Liam Neeson in ‘Schindler’s List’
From the moment he graces the screen, Neeson commands attention with his commanding presence and emotional depth. Last month, the actor...
The film, which starred Liam Neeson as Oskar Schindler, has a ton of interesting behind-the-scenes material because making a 195-minute epic is not a small feat. Indeed, Neeson’s career was greatly impacted by the movie. The role that really set Neeson apart is his portrayal of Oskar Schindler. Even though Kevin Costner and Harrison Ford both have impressive acting resumes, Neeson’s performance even puts him above them.
Liam Neeson in ‘Schindler’s List’
From the moment he graces the screen, Neeson commands attention with his commanding presence and emotional depth. Last month, the actor...
- 4/1/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
Legendary filmmaker Steven Spielberg became one of the greats when he helmed the holocaust drama Schindler’s List. The harrowing tale of oppression, pain, and hope was headlined by a then-unknown Liam Neeson and received universal acclaim for its depiction of WWII. Spielberg won his first Oscar for Best Director for the film.
While Lian Neeson’s performance as the titular Oskar Schindler earned him an Academy Award nomination and cannot be imagined starring anyone else, many stars were reportedly interested in the role. One of them was reportedly Braveheart star Mel Gibson, who was considered by Spielberg but he had to reject him as he did not want a star to be in the lead.
Mel Gibson Was Considered For The Lead Role In Schindler’s List Mel Gibson in Braveheart
Actor Mel Gibson has also received his share of Oscar glory when he starred and directed in the war drama Braveheart.
While Lian Neeson’s performance as the titular Oskar Schindler earned him an Academy Award nomination and cannot be imagined starring anyone else, many stars were reportedly interested in the role. One of them was reportedly Braveheart star Mel Gibson, who was considered by Spielberg but he had to reject him as he did not want a star to be in the lead.
Mel Gibson Was Considered For The Lead Role In Schindler’s List Mel Gibson in Braveheart
Actor Mel Gibson has also received his share of Oscar glory when he starred and directed in the war drama Braveheart.
- 2/23/2024
- by Nishanth A
- FandomWire
Steven Spielberg's "Schindler's List" was the rare animal that was a huge critical darling, a major awards contender, and a massive blockbuster. "Schindler's List" was nominated for 12 Academy Awards, winning seven, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay. Worldwide, the film grossed over $322 million, a huge amount for a prestige picture. The fact that Spielberg also made "Jurassic Park" that same year only makes the achievement that much more impressive.
"Schindler's List" tells the story of Oskar Schindler, a wealthy Czech industrialist who, during World War II, employed as many Jewish workers as he could in his factories with the explicit purpose of saving them from concentration camps. He had to remain friendly with the Nazi party to keep his factories running and became increasingly distraught at what was happening to Europe's Jewish population. By the end of the film, Schindler breaks down, realizing that his wealth...
"Schindler's List" tells the story of Oskar Schindler, a wealthy Czech industrialist who, during World War II, employed as many Jewish workers as he could in his factories with the explicit purpose of saving them from concentration camps. He had to remain friendly with the Nazi party to keep his factories running and became increasingly distraught at what was happening to Europe's Jewish population. By the end of the film, Schindler breaks down, realizing that his wealth...
- 2/22/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Before Baz Luhrmann took award season by storm with "Elvis," he made "Australia." If you've forgotten about the 2008 epic starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman, you're not alone; the movie wasn't exactly embraced upon release, and while it made plenty of money at the box office, it also became a bit of a punchline among critics that year. As Stephanie Zacharek wrote in a review for Salon, "The second half of 'Australia,' Luhrmann's attempt to pull off a wartime weeper, is so aggressively sentimental that it begins to feel more like punishment than pleasure."
So what does "Australia" have to do with "Faraway Downs"? Well, everything. The upcoming six-episode limited series set to drop on streaming next month has been branded as a reimagining of Luhrmann's movie -- a second stab at his Australian "Gone With The Wind." It's an unusual choice from an always-interesting filmmaker, and we'll know...
So what does "Australia" have to do with "Faraway Downs"? Well, everything. The upcoming six-episode limited series set to drop on streaming next month has been branded as a reimagining of Luhrmann's movie -- a second stab at his Australian "Gone With The Wind." It's an unusual choice from an always-interesting filmmaker, and we'll know...
- 10/24/2023
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
Studiocanal has boarded the big screen adaptation of Australian author’s Craig Silvey’s award-winning 2002 bestseller Runt, about the friendship between a young girl and a stray dog she takes under her wing.
Child actress Lily Latorre, whose credits include feature Run Rabbit Run and TV series The Clearing, has been signed for the lead role, to star alongside by a rescue dog called Squid.
The actress’s real-life sibling Jack Latorre will also join her in his big screen debut as a daredevil younger brother.
The all-Australian adult cast includes Jai Courtney, Celeste Barber, Deborah Mailman, Matt Day and Jack Thompson.
Set in the country-town of Upson Down, the comedy drama follows eleven-year-old Annie Shearer and her adopted stray dog Runt, as they try to save the family farm by competing in the Agility Course Grand
The production is led by Sydney and Perth-based See Pictures, with the backing of Screen Australia,...
Child actress Lily Latorre, whose credits include feature Run Rabbit Run and TV series The Clearing, has been signed for the lead role, to star alongside by a rescue dog called Squid.
The actress’s real-life sibling Jack Latorre will also join her in his big screen debut as a daredevil younger brother.
The all-Australian adult cast includes Jai Courtney, Celeste Barber, Deborah Mailman, Matt Day and Jack Thompson.
Set in the country-town of Upson Down, the comedy drama follows eleven-year-old Annie Shearer and her adopted stray dog Runt, as they try to save the family farm by competing in the Agility Course Grand
The production is led by Sydney and Perth-based See Pictures, with the backing of Screen Australia,...
- 10/23/2023
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
Best-selling Australian novel, Runt” is to be adapted as a feature movie that will begin shooting from next month. Studiocanal is handling international rights sales and local distribution in Australia and New Zealand.
The story is a heartfelt, contemporary Australian tale, set in the country town of Upson Downs, where eleven-year-old Annie Shearer and her best friend, an adopted stray dog called Runt, try to save their family farm by competing in the Agility Course Grand Championships at the prestigious Krumpets Dog Show in London.
The book was released in 2022 and won a clean sweep of the major Australian literary awards including 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 movie is adapted for the screen by...
The story is a heartfelt, contemporary Australian tale, set in the country town of Upson Downs, where eleven-year-old Annie Shearer and her best friend, an adopted stray dog called Runt, try to save their family farm by competing in the Agility Course Grand Championships at the prestigious Krumpets Dog Show in London.
The book was released in 2022 and won a clean sweep of the major Australian literary awards including 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 movie is adapted for the screen by...
- 10/23/2023
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Studiocanal handles international sales.
Jai Courtney, Celeste Barber, Deborah Mailman, Matt Day, Tom Budge, Genevieve Lemon and Jack Thompson have been cast in director John Sheedy’s second feature Runt, with cameras rolling on Monday (October 23) in Western Australia.
However it is Lily Latorre, who plays 11-year-old Annie, and adopted stray dog Squid in the title role of Runt, who will be the stand-out stars as their characters make up the champion dog agility double-act that might just save the family’s sheep farm. Latorre’s brother Jack is also in the cast.
Prolific author Craig Silvey wrote the script...
Jai Courtney, Celeste Barber, Deborah Mailman, Matt Day, Tom Budge, Genevieve Lemon and Jack Thompson have been cast in director John Sheedy’s second feature Runt, with cameras rolling on Monday (October 23) in Western Australia.
However it is Lily Latorre, who plays 11-year-old Annie, and adopted stray dog Squid in the title role of Runt, who will be the stand-out stars as their characters make up the champion dog agility double-act that might just save the family’s sheep farm. Latorre’s brother Jack is also in the cast.
Prolific author Craig Silvey wrote the script...
- 10/22/2023
- by Sandy George
- ScreenDaily
"The only thing you really own is your story... just trying to live a good one." Surprise!! After the success of Baz Luhrmann's Elvis last year, they're revisiting one of his least successful films. Hulu revealed an official trailer for the mini-series Faraway Downs, which is a re-edit of Luhrmann's 2008 movie Australia. We actually covered this movie extensively back in 2008 when it was first released, including with editorials and more. "An iconic duo, to say the least." Faraway Downs is the reimagining of the film Australia told in six parts about an English aristocrat & a rough-hewn cattle drover who join forces to protect the million-acre cattle ranch of her late husband. Although Hulu describes Australia as a "cinematic masterpiece", it didn't do as well as they hoped; now it seems it will play better as a series. Nicole Kidman & Hugh Jackman co-star, with Brandon Walters, David Wenham, Bryan Brown,...
- 10/19/2023
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
To celebrate the release of Mark Cousins’ new documentary The Storms of Jeremy Thomas, a portrait of the Oscar-winning producer responsible for bringing to life films by David Cronenberg, Jonathan Glazer, Jim Jarmusch, Bernardo Bertolucci, Nagisa Ôshima, Jerzy Skolimowski, and many more, NYC’s Quad Cinema is fittingly paying tribute to his career with a fantastic retrospective.
“Jeremy Thomas Presents” kicks off today and runs through September 28 at Quad Cinema, with The Storms of Jeremy Thomas opening this Friday, September 22. As the retrospective commences, we’re pleased to exclusively share the trailer along with comments directly from Thomas looking back at the making of these iconic films.
Sexy Beast
I was sent a script with a Jonathan Glazer attached, called “Sexy Beast”. It was on a Friday night, and I read it over the weekend. The screenplay was brilliant, and on the Monday I bought it before anyone else could.
“Jeremy Thomas Presents” kicks off today and runs through September 28 at Quad Cinema, with The Storms of Jeremy Thomas opening this Friday, September 22. As the retrospective commences, we’re pleased to exclusively share the trailer along with comments directly from Thomas looking back at the making of these iconic films.
Sexy Beast
I was sent a script with a Jonathan Glazer attached, called “Sexy Beast”. It was on a Friday night, and I read it over the weekend. The screenplay was brilliant, and on the Monday I bought it before anyone else could.
- 9/18/2023
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
Welcome to The B-Side, from The Film Stage. Here we talk about movie stars! Not the movies that made them famous or kept them famous, but the ones that they made in between.
Today we talk with a legend (Blake Howard of One Heat Minute Productions) about a legend: Russell Crowe. Born in New Zealand and settled in Australia, Crowe had starred in a dozen films (he was even a child actor!) before his American breakthrough in Curtis Hanson’s L.A. Confidential.
Our first B-Side is an Australian picture he made with icon (and close friend) Jack Thompson: The Sum of Us. Our second is the wines & vines rom-com A Good Year! Number three is the Pittsburgh shot-and-set action drama The Next Three Days. And, finally, we get a little Unhinged. Don’t worry, during this part of the show you will find nary a hinge.
Blake dishes...
Today we talk with a legend (Blake Howard of One Heat Minute Productions) about a legend: Russell Crowe. Born in New Zealand and settled in Australia, Crowe had starred in a dozen films (he was even a child actor!) before his American breakthrough in Curtis Hanson’s L.A. Confidential.
Our first B-Side is an Australian picture he made with icon (and close friend) Jack Thompson: The Sum of Us. Our second is the wines & vines rom-com A Good Year! Number three is the Pittsburgh shot-and-set action drama The Next Three Days. And, finally, we get a little Unhinged. Don’t worry, during this part of the show you will find nary a hinge.
Blake dishes...
- 5/4/2023
- by Dan Mecca
- The Film Stage
The actor narrates a 40-screen immersive exhibition of Australian land and wildlife, shot by 25 cinematographers. ‘This environment is our heritage and our responsibility,’ he says
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Before he became one of Australia’s best-loved actors, Jack Thompson had already been many things. At the age of 15, he became a jackaroo in the Northern Territory, working on the remote cattle station of Elkedra. There, he says, he observed a life that no longer exists. At camp, he was the only white person among the adult Alyawarra men.
It was fine preparation for his cinematic work in the 1970s and early 80s when he became an icon of the Australian New Wave, taking leading and supporting roles in classics including Sunday Too Far Away (1975), The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith (1978), Breaker Morant (1980) and The Man from Snowy River (1982).
Sign up for the fun stuff with our rundown of must-reads,...
Get our weekend culture and lifestyle email
Before he became one of Australia’s best-loved actors, Jack Thompson had already been many things. At the age of 15, he became a jackaroo in the Northern Territory, working on the remote cattle station of Elkedra. There, he says, he observed a life that no longer exists. At camp, he was the only white person among the adult Alyawarra men.
It was fine preparation for his cinematic work in the 1970s and early 80s when he became an icon of the Australian New Wave, taking leading and supporting roles in classics including Sunday Too Far Away (1975), The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith (1978), Breaker Morant (1980) and The Man from Snowy River (1982).
Sign up for the fun stuff with our rundown of must-reads,...
- 3/12/2023
- by Andrew Stafford
- The Guardian - Film News
The title “Poker Face” suggests a droll, methodical cunning that unfortunately proves elusive everywhere else in Russell Crowe’s sophomore effort as writer-director. As handsomely produced as his first, 2014’s historical drama “The Water Diviner,” it offers an even more overstuffed narrative whose myriad elements barely have time to register before we arrive at a nearly 10-minute end credits crawl. This Australia-shot mix of intrigue, soap opera, thriller and tearjerker never quite gels, despite enough surface gloss and cast expertise to hold attention. Screen Media is releasing theatrically to a couple dozen U.S. screens this week and to digital formats on Nov. 22, with other territories following.
A prologue finds our protagonists as teenage besties in what looks like the late 1970s: five rural Aussie lads already obsessed with poker. After a swim in an idyllic quarry, they’re challenged to a game by a local bully, who naturally is enraged by his loss.
A prologue finds our protagonists as teenage besties in what looks like the late 1970s: five rural Aussie lads already obsessed with poker. After a swim in an idyllic quarry, they’re challenged to a game by a local bully, who naturally is enraged by his loss.
- 11/15/2022
- by Dennis Harvey
- Variety Film + TV
Some 10 films have been nominated for the Young Australian Filmmaker of the Year Award at the Byron Bay International Film Festival, with veteran actor Jack Thompson among the judges. Each project comes from a filmmaker under 25, with their shorts to play in-person at the festival for the first time since 2019. During the […]
The post Jack Thompson to judge young Australian filmmaker award comp at Byron Bay Film Festival appeared first on If Magazine.
The post Jack Thompson to judge young Australian filmmaker award comp at Byron Bay Film Festival appeared first on If Magazine.
- 10/6/2022
- by Staff Writer
- IF.com.au
The late David Gulpilil will receive Aacta’s highest honour, the Longford Lyell Award, for his outstanding contribution to Australian cinema on Wednesday.
The legendary actor died on Monday, aged 68, four years after a diagnosis of terminal lung cancer.
Aacta began work on the tribute and award six months ago, with Gulpilil accepting the honour a few weeks ago from South Australia as he was unable to travel.
First presented in 1968, the award honours Australian film pioneer Raymond Longford and his partner in filmmaking and life, Lottie Lyell. Previous recipients include Cate Blanchett, George Miller, Paul Hogan, Jack Thompson and Jacki Weaver.
Aacta has said this year’s prize acknowledges not just Gulpilil’s incredible body of work, but his role in creating more diverse, inclusive, and truthful Australian stories.
A Mandjalpingu man from Ramingining, Arnhem Land, Gulpilil’s first role was in Nick Roeg’s 1971 film Walkabout as a teenager.
The legendary actor died on Monday, aged 68, four years after a diagnosis of terminal lung cancer.
Aacta began work on the tribute and award six months ago, with Gulpilil accepting the honour a few weeks ago from South Australia as he was unable to travel.
First presented in 1968, the award honours Australian film pioneer Raymond Longford and his partner in filmmaking and life, Lottie Lyell. Previous recipients include Cate Blanchett, George Miller, Paul Hogan, Jack Thompson and Jacki Weaver.
Aacta has said this year’s prize acknowledges not just Gulpilil’s incredible body of work, but his role in creating more diverse, inclusive, and truthful Australian stories.
A Mandjalpingu man from Ramingining, Arnhem Land, Gulpilil’s first role was in Nick Roeg’s 1971 film Walkabout as a teenager.
- 12/2/2021
- by Jackie Keast
- IF.com.au
The actor starred in films including ‘Walkabout’, ‘Crocodile Dundee’ and ‘Rabbit-Proof Fence’
David Gulpilil, one of Australia’s most recognisable actors both locally and abroad, has died at the age of 68.
In a statement issued today, the premier of South Australia, Steven Marshall, described him as an “iconic, once-in-a-generation artist who shaped the history of Australian film and Aboriginal representation on screen”.
Gulpilil was first cast in Walkabout (1971), directed by Nicolas Roeg, and has been a feature of Australian cinema for the past 50 years, including roles in two local films that are among the highest-grossing releases ever in Australia: Crocodile Dundee...
David Gulpilil, one of Australia’s most recognisable actors both locally and abroad, has died at the age of 68.
In a statement issued today, the premier of South Australia, Steven Marshall, described him as an “iconic, once-in-a-generation artist who shaped the history of Australian film and Aboriginal representation on screen”.
Gulpilil was first cast in Walkabout (1971), directed by Nicolas Roeg, and has been a feature of Australian cinema for the past 50 years, including roles in two local films that are among the highest-grossing releases ever in Australia: Crocodile Dundee...
- 11/29/2021
- by Sandy George
- ScreenDaily
A cross-section of the country’s emerging screen talent has received the endorsement of the Casting Guild of Australia (Cga) with the announcement of the guild’s annual Rising Stars.
The 2021 list comprises Albert Mwangi (Bump), BeBe Bettencourt (The Dry), Clarence Ryan (Stateless), Claude Jabbour (Eden), Elizabeth Cullen (Elvis), Georgie Stone (Neighbours), Jacob Junior Nayinggul (High Ground), Marlo Kelly (Joe Exotic), Ngali Shaw (Rfds) and Yerin Ha (Halo).
Now in its seventh year, the program is designed to identify Australian actors that have the potential to shine on the world stage, with previous recipients including Eliza Scanlan (Babyteeth), Katherine Langford (13 Reasons Why), Zoe Terakes (Nine Perfect Strangers), Tilda Cobham-Harvey (Hotel Mumbai) and Alexander England (Little Monsters).
Cga president David Newman said the guild was particularly proud of the “talent, tenacity, drive, and passion” of the 2021 Cga Rising Stars.
“In a time when an actor has had to adapt like never before,...
The 2021 list comprises Albert Mwangi (Bump), BeBe Bettencourt (The Dry), Clarence Ryan (Stateless), Claude Jabbour (Eden), Elizabeth Cullen (Elvis), Georgie Stone (Neighbours), Jacob Junior Nayinggul (High Ground), Marlo Kelly (Joe Exotic), Ngali Shaw (Rfds) and Yerin Ha (Halo).
Now in its seventh year, the program is designed to identify Australian actors that have the potential to shine on the world stage, with previous recipients including Eliza Scanlan (Babyteeth), Katherine Langford (13 Reasons Why), Zoe Terakes (Nine Perfect Strangers), Tilda Cobham-Harvey (Hotel Mumbai) and Alexander England (Little Monsters).
Cga president David Newman said the guild was particularly proud of the “talent, tenacity, drive, and passion” of the 2021 Cga Rising Stars.
“In a time when an actor has had to adapt like never before,...
- 11/9/2021
- by Staff Writer
- IF.com.au
“High Ground,” a 1930s-set drama film, picked up eight nominations for the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Awards. It narrowly led the field of contenders that included controversial drama “Nitram” with seven nominations, “The Dry” with six and “Penguin Bloom” with five.
Nominations were announced over the weekend ahead of a week of voting. The winners will be announced at a ceremony at Sydney Opera House on Dec. 8, 2021.
Six films received nominations for best film: “The Dry,” “The Furnace,” “High Ground,” “Nitram,” “Penguin Bloom” and “Rams.” Five of the six also received nominations for best director.
“High Ground,” received five of its nominations for acting, with two of its performers going head-to-head in the best actor category, and two more in the best supporting actor section.
Similarly, “Nitram,” which chronicles the build-up to a real-life mass shooting in Tasmania, received nominations for its two leads and two supporting cast.
Nominations were announced over the weekend ahead of a week of voting. The winners will be announced at a ceremony at Sydney Opera House on Dec. 8, 2021.
Six films received nominations for best film: “The Dry,” “The Furnace,” “High Ground,” “Nitram,” “Penguin Bloom” and “Rams.” Five of the six also received nominations for best director.
“High Ground,” received five of its nominations for acting, with two of its performers going head-to-head in the best actor category, and two more in the best supporting actor section.
Similarly, “Nitram,” which chronicles the build-up to a real-life mass shooting in Tasmania, received nominations for its two leads and two supporting cast.
- 11/1/2021
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Aacta has revealed those in contention for the major film, television and short-form prizes at this year’s awards, with High Ground leading the charge in the film categories and The Newsreader ahead in television.
The nominations follow those revealed for feature documentary in July, with the technical craft categories still to come.
Aacta also announced today that this year’s awards will move from The Star to the Sydney Opera House, with the ceremony to be held December 8.
There has also been a change in broadcast partners from Seven to 10, where the ceremony will air first followed by an encore on Fox Arena on Foxtel, Binge, and Aacta TV.
High Ground has earned eight nominations, including Best Film. Also nominated for the night’s major prize are Nitram, which earned seven nods, The Dry, which has six, as well as The Furnace, Penguin Bloom and Rams.
The Best Indie Film Award,...
The nominations follow those revealed for feature documentary in July, with the technical craft categories still to come.
Aacta also announced today that this year’s awards will move from The Star to the Sydney Opera House, with the ceremony to be held December 8.
There has also been a change in broadcast partners from Seven to 10, where the ceremony will air first followed by an encore on Fox Arena on Foxtel, Binge, and Aacta TV.
High Ground has earned eight nominations, including Best Film. Also nominated for the night’s major prize are Nitram, which earned seven nods, The Dry, which has six, as well as The Furnace, Penguin Bloom and Rams.
The Best Indie Film Award,...
- 10/30/2021
- by Jackie Keast
- IF.com.au
CinefestOZ Film Festival has awarded actress Isla Fisher its Screen Legend prize for 2021.
The award recognises an Australian actor or filmmaker of international repute and their role in supporting excellence in Australian filmmaking.
Fisher, who was born in Oman and grew up in Perth, has been a fixture of Australian screens since she was nine, when she started in TV commercials before being cast as Shannon Reed in Home & Away, a role she played for three years.
Her career internationally took off with The Wedding Crashers, followed by a range of roles in films such as Rango, The Great Gatsby, Nocturnal Animals, Definitely, Maybe , Now You See Me, Hot Rod, The Brothers Grimsby alongside her husband Sacha Baron Cohen, and Blithe Spirit. Her most recent role is in Stan/Peacock’s upcoming series Wolf Like Me, opposite Josh Gad.
Fisher studied commedia dell’arte in Paris at the renowned L’école Jacques Lecoq performance school,...
The award recognises an Australian actor or filmmaker of international repute and their role in supporting excellence in Australian filmmaking.
Fisher, who was born in Oman and grew up in Perth, has been a fixture of Australian screens since she was nine, when she started in TV commercials before being cast as Shannon Reed in Home & Away, a role she played for three years.
Her career internationally took off with The Wedding Crashers, followed by a range of roles in films such as Rango, The Great Gatsby, Nocturnal Animals, Definitely, Maybe , Now You See Me, Hot Rod, The Brothers Grimsby alongside her husband Sacha Baron Cohen, and Blithe Spirit. Her most recent role is in Stan/Peacock’s upcoming series Wolf Like Me, opposite Josh Gad.
Fisher studied commedia dell’arte in Paris at the renowned L’école Jacques Lecoq performance school,...
- 8/26/2021
- by Staff Writer
- IF.com.au
The world is melting but fear not: Amazon’s satirical sketch show The Moth Effect is here to repeatedly flap and bump into humanity until all our problems go away.
Created by Nick Boshier and Jazz Twemlow, the Bunya Entertainment series features some of Australia’s best and funniest performers as they punch up and punch themselves, tackling everything from climate change and reality TV to the military industrial complex and time travel paradoxes.
Stars include Bryan Brown, Vincent D’Onofrio, David Wenham, Jack Thompson, Miranda Otto, Ben Lawson, Peter O’Brien, Kate Box, Zoe Terakes, Miranda Tapsell and Jake Ryan alongside Mark Humphries, Nazeem Hussain, Zoe Coombs Marr, Jonny Brugh, Lucinda Price, Dave Woodhead, Louis Hanson, Steen Raskopoulos, Tim Franklin, Sam Cotton, Christiaan van Vuuren, Sarah Bishop, Sam Campbell, Megan Wilding and Brooke Boney.
The Moth Effect is directed by Craig Anderson and Gracie Otto. Produced by Lauren Elliott and Jordana Johnson,...
Created by Nick Boshier and Jazz Twemlow, the Bunya Entertainment series features some of Australia’s best and funniest performers as they punch up and punch themselves, tackling everything from climate change and reality TV to the military industrial complex and time travel paradoxes.
Stars include Bryan Brown, Vincent D’Onofrio, David Wenham, Jack Thompson, Miranda Otto, Ben Lawson, Peter O’Brien, Kate Box, Zoe Terakes, Miranda Tapsell and Jake Ryan alongside Mark Humphries, Nazeem Hussain, Zoe Coombs Marr, Jonny Brugh, Lucinda Price, Dave Woodhead, Louis Hanson, Steen Raskopoulos, Tim Franklin, Sam Cotton, Christiaan van Vuuren, Sarah Bishop, Sam Campbell, Megan Wilding and Brooke Boney.
The Moth Effect is directed by Craig Anderson and Gracie Otto. Produced by Lauren Elliott and Jordana Johnson,...
- 7/21/2021
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
From Walkabout, Storm Boy, Crocodile Dundee and Rabbit Proof Fence, to Australia, The Proposition and Charlie’s Country, the work of David Gulpilil forms a throughline in modern Australian cinema.
Knowing that his career has touched Australians far and wide and across generations, distributor Abcg Films wanted to ensure documentary My Name Is Gulpilil was accessible and could reach audiences across the country.
Directed by Molly Reynolds, the film sees the legendary Indigenous actor, who has terminal lung cancer, tell his story in his own words – there are no talking heads from anyone else.
The film was originally intended to exist as a posthumous tribute, though Gulpilil has defied the odds. Indeed, despite his illness, he was even able to be there in person for the film’s premiere at the Adelaide Festival in March.
Abcg Film, led by Alicia Brescianini and Cathy Gallagher, has a long history of working with...
Knowing that his career has touched Australians far and wide and across generations, distributor Abcg Films wanted to ensure documentary My Name Is Gulpilil was accessible and could reach audiences across the country.
Directed by Molly Reynolds, the film sees the legendary Indigenous actor, who has terminal lung cancer, tell his story in his own words – there are no talking heads from anyone else.
The film was originally intended to exist as a posthumous tribute, though Gulpilil has defied the odds. Indeed, despite his illness, he was even able to be there in person for the film’s premiere at the Adelaide Festival in March.
Abcg Film, led by Alicia Brescianini and Cathy Gallagher, has a long history of working with...
- 6/29/2021
- by Jackie Keast
- IF.com.au
David Lightfoot, the Australian producer behind Wolf Creek, Rogue and more, died in an Adelaide hospital on Sunday, after suffering a heart attack. He was 61.
News of his passing was confirmed via the official Facebook page for Ultrafilms, the production company he founded in 1997.
“It is with deep sadness that Ultrafilms announces the death of founder David Lightfoot,” read their statement. “David Lightfoot was one of the most experienced and widely regarded production executives in the country…David dedicated his life to the film industry, and was passionate about Australian film and telling Australian stories.”
“David…was a close friend of mine for 20 years and a generous mentor,” Lightfoot’s business partner and co-producer, Sabella Sugar, told Deadline. “He gave so much and he touched so many lives.”
Lightfoot embarked on his career in film in 1982, joining the South Australian Film Corporation after playing cricket for South Australia and spending...
News of his passing was confirmed via the official Facebook page for Ultrafilms, the production company he founded in 1997.
“It is with deep sadness that Ultrafilms announces the death of founder David Lightfoot,” read their statement. “David Lightfoot was one of the most experienced and widely regarded production executives in the country…David dedicated his life to the film industry, and was passionate about Australian film and telling Australian stories.”
“David…was a close friend of mine for 20 years and a generous mentor,” Lightfoot’s business partner and co-producer, Sabella Sugar, told Deadline. “He gave so much and he touched so many lives.”
Lightfoot embarked on his career in film in 1982, joining the South Australian Film Corporation after playing cricket for South Australia and spending...
- 6/16/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
David Lightfoot, producer of films such as Wolf Creek, died on Sunday following complications from recent surgery.
Lightfoot worked in the screen industry for more than 30 years, beginning at the South Australian Film Corporation in 1982.
His prolific career spanned more than 80 credits in various roles, including associate producer of Bad Boy Bubby; location manager for Babe; co-producer for The Sound of One Hand Clapping and line producer for Japanese Story.
Lightfoot was both producer and line producer for Greg McLean’s 2005 hit Wolf Creek, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and screened in Cannes’ Directors’ Fortnight.
He continued to collaborate with McLean on 2007’s Rogue, and went on to produce Rupert Glasson’s thriller Coffin Rock in 2009.
Mickey Rourke, Matt Hearn, Greg McLean, Cassandra Magrath and David Lightfoot in Cannes, 2005.
More recently, via his company Ultrafilms, he produced Jack Thompson, Jacki Weaver and James Cromwell-starrer Never Too Late with Antony I. Ginnane.
Lightfoot worked in the screen industry for more than 30 years, beginning at the South Australian Film Corporation in 1982.
His prolific career spanned more than 80 credits in various roles, including associate producer of Bad Boy Bubby; location manager for Babe; co-producer for The Sound of One Hand Clapping and line producer for Japanese Story.
Lightfoot was both producer and line producer for Greg McLean’s 2005 hit Wolf Creek, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and screened in Cannes’ Directors’ Fortnight.
He continued to collaborate with McLean on 2007’s Rogue, and went on to produce Rupert Glasson’s thriller Coffin Rock in 2009.
Mickey Rourke, Matt Hearn, Greg McLean, Cassandra Magrath and David Lightfoot in Cannes, 2005.
More recently, via his company Ultrafilms, he produced Jack Thompson, Jacki Weaver and James Cromwell-starrer Never Too Late with Antony I. Ginnane.
- 6/15/2021
- by Jackie Keast
- IF.com.au
Producers Ben Ferris and Ulysses Oliver will explore the capabilities of filming on a micro-budget in the next few months as they aim to finish production on five features before the end of the year.
The pair came together to form Breathless Films last year and have since outlined a purposely prolific schedule for 2021.
They are in the midst of working on Craig Boreham’s Lonesome, a story about closeted country lad Casey, who finds himself down and out in the big smoke when he meets Tib, a young gay man with whom he is able to connect, albeit with some challenges.
The film, which is being shot in Sydney, stars newcomers Josh Lavery in the role of Casey and Daniel Gabriel as Tib with Anni Finsterer (Sweet Country) and Ian Roberts (Superman Returns) in supporting roles.
It is the second feature film for Breathless, following Amin Palangi’s psychological drama Tennessine,...
The pair came together to form Breathless Films last year and have since outlined a purposely prolific schedule for 2021.
They are in the midst of working on Craig Boreham’s Lonesome, a story about closeted country lad Casey, who finds himself down and out in the big smoke when he meets Tib, a young gay man with whom he is able to connect, albeit with some challenges.
The film, which is being shot in Sydney, stars newcomers Josh Lavery in the role of Casey and Daniel Gabriel as Tib with Anni Finsterer (Sweet Country) and Ian Roberts (Superman Returns) in supporting roles.
It is the second feature film for Breathless, following Amin Palangi’s psychological drama Tennessine,...
- 6/11/2021
- by Sean Slatter
- IF.com.au
Roadside Attractions is releasing Finding You, a coming of age romantic drama based on Jenny B. Jones’ novel There You’ll Find Me and written and directed by Brian Baugh. The pic, which is available in theaters today, stars Rose Reid, Jedidiah Goodacre, Katherine McNamara, Patrick Bergin, Saoirse-Monica Jackson, with Tom Everett Scott, and Vanessa Redgrave
In the movie, after an ill-fated audition at a prestigious New York music conservatory, violinist Finley Sinclair (Reid) travels to an Irish coastal village to begin her semester studying abroad. At the B&b run by her host family, she encounters gregarious and persistent heartthrob movie star Beckett Rush (Goodacre), who is there to film another installment of his medieval fantasy-adventure franchise.
As romance sparks between the unlikely pair, Beckett ignites a journey of discovery for Finley that transforms her heart, her music, and her outlook on life. In turn, Finley emboldens Beckett to reach...
In the movie, after an ill-fated audition at a prestigious New York music conservatory, violinist Finley Sinclair (Reid) travels to an Irish coastal village to begin her semester studying abroad. At the B&b run by her host family, she encounters gregarious and persistent heartthrob movie star Beckett Rush (Goodacre), who is there to film another installment of his medieval fantasy-adventure franchise.
As romance sparks between the unlikely pair, Beckett ignites a journey of discovery for Finley that transforms her heart, her music, and her outlook on life. In turn, Finley emboldens Beckett to reach...
- 5/14/2021
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
High Ground Samuel Goldwyn Films Reviewed for Shockya.com & BigAppleReviews.net linked from Rotten Tomatoes by: Harvey Karten Director: Stephen Maxwell Johnson Writer: Chris Anastassiades Cast: Simon Baker, Jacob Junior Nayinggul, Jack Thompson, Sean Mununggur, Callah Mulvey, Witiyana Marika Screened at: Critics’ link, NYC, 4/19/21 Opens: May 14, 2021 I would guess that an astute filmgoer, […]
The post High Ground Movie Review appeared first on Shockya.com.
The post High Ground Movie Review appeared first on Shockya.com.
- 5/9/2021
- by Harvey Karten
- ShockYa
High Ground starring Simon Baker, Callan Mulvey, Aaron Pedersen, Jacob Junior Nayinggul will be On Demand and Digital May 14th. Here’s the trailer:
Now you can win the Win a Digital Download Code For High Ground. We Are Movie Geeks has three to give away. Just leave your email address in the comments section below. It’s so easy!
In High Ground, Gutjuk teams up with ex-sniper Travis to track down the most dangerous warrior in the Territory, who is also his uncle. As Travis and Gutjuk journey through the outback they begin to earn each other’s trust, but when the truths of Travis’ past actions are suddenly revealed, it is he who becomes the hunted.
High Ground stars Jacob Junior Nayinggul, Simon Baker, Callan Mulvey, Aaron Pedersen, Ryan Corr, Caren Pistorius, Sean Mununggurr, Witiyana Marika, Esmerelda Marimowa, Maximillian Johnson, and Jack Thompson
The post Wamg Giveaway: Win...
Now you can win the Win a Digital Download Code For High Ground. We Are Movie Geeks has three to give away. Just leave your email address in the comments section below. It’s so easy!
In High Ground, Gutjuk teams up with ex-sniper Travis to track down the most dangerous warrior in the Territory, who is also his uncle. As Travis and Gutjuk journey through the outback they begin to earn each other’s trust, but when the truths of Travis’ past actions are suddenly revealed, it is he who becomes the hunted.
High Ground stars Jacob Junior Nayinggul, Simon Baker, Callan Mulvey, Aaron Pedersen, Ryan Corr, Caren Pistorius, Sean Mununggurr, Witiyana Marika, Esmerelda Marimowa, Maximillian Johnson, and Jack Thompson
The post Wamg Giveaway: Win...
- 5/7/2021
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
High Ground starring Simon Baker, Callan Mulvey, Aaron Pedersen, Jacob Junior Nayinggul will be On Demand and Digital May 14th. Here’s the trailer:
In High Ground, Gutjuk teams up with ex-sniper Travis to track down the most dangerous warrior in the Territory, who is also his uncle. As Travis and Gutjuk journey through the outback they begin to earn each other’s trust, but when the truths of Travis’ past actions are suddenly revealed, it is he who becomes the hunted.
High Ground stars Jacob Junior Nayinggul, Simon Baker, Callan Mulvey, Aaron Pedersen, Ryan Corr, Caren Pistorius, Sean Mununggurr, Witiyana Marika, Esmerelda Marimowa, Maximillian Johnson, and Jack Thompson
The post Here’s the Trailer for High Ground starring Simon Baker – On Demand and Digital May 14th appeared first on We Are Movie Geeks.
In High Ground, Gutjuk teams up with ex-sniper Travis to track down the most dangerous warrior in the Territory, who is also his uncle. As Travis and Gutjuk journey through the outback they begin to earn each other’s trust, but when the truths of Travis’ past actions are suddenly revealed, it is he who becomes the hunted.
High Ground stars Jacob Junior Nayinggul, Simon Baker, Callan Mulvey, Aaron Pedersen, Ryan Corr, Caren Pistorius, Sean Mununggurr, Witiyana Marika, Esmerelda Marimowa, Maximillian Johnson, and Jack Thompson
The post Here’s the Trailer for High Ground starring Simon Baker – On Demand and Digital May 14th appeared first on We Are Movie Geeks.
- 3/29/2021
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
If an Illinois lawmaker has their way, then Grand Theft Auto and other violent video games could soon be “banned” in that state. Why? Well, along with the usual moral panic excuses, it seems that Rep. Marcus C. Evans, Jr. believes GTA could be partially responsible for recent Chicago crime waves.
This proposal (House Bill 3531) is actually an amendment to a 2012 law that prohibits the sale of certain video games to minors. Under the new bill, restrictions would be expanded to prevent all sales of what the documents refer to as “violent video games.”
In the bill, a violent video game is described as a game that “allows a user or player to control a character within the video game that is encouraged to perpetuate human-on-human violence in which the player kills or otherwise causes serious physical or psychological harm to another human or an animal.” As you have probably gathered,...
This proposal (House Bill 3531) is actually an amendment to a 2012 law that prohibits the sale of certain video games to minors. Under the new bill, restrictions would be expanded to prevent all sales of what the documents refer to as “violent video games.”
In the bill, a violent video game is described as a game that “allows a user or player to control a character within the video game that is encouraged to perpetuate human-on-human violence in which the player kills or otherwise causes serious physical or psychological harm to another human or an animal.” As you have probably gathered,...
- 2/25/2021
- by Matthew Byrd
- Den of Geek
*Competition Is Now Closed; Winners To Be Notified Shortly*
If has 15 double passes to give away to Stephen Johnson’s High Ground, courtesy of Madman Films.
Set in 1930s Arnhem Land, High Ground follows young Aboriginal man Gutjuk (Jacob Junior Nayinggul), who in a bid to save the last of his family teams up with ex-soldier Travis (Simon Baker) to track down Baywara—the most dangerous warrior in the Territory, who is also his uncle. As Travis and Gutjuk journey through the outback they begin to earn each other’s trust, but when the truths of Travis’ past actions are suddenly revealed, it is he who becomes the hunted.
Starring alongside Nayinggul and Baker are Jack Thompson, Witiyana Marika, Aaron Pedersen, Callan Mulvey, Ryan Corr, Caren Pistorius and Esmerelda Marimow.
High Ground, which premiered at the 2020 Berlin Internatioanl Film Festival, is written by Chris Anastassiades and produced by David Jowsey,...
If has 15 double passes to give away to Stephen Johnson’s High Ground, courtesy of Madman Films.
Set in 1930s Arnhem Land, High Ground follows young Aboriginal man Gutjuk (Jacob Junior Nayinggul), who in a bid to save the last of his family teams up with ex-soldier Travis (Simon Baker) to track down Baywara—the most dangerous warrior in the Territory, who is also his uncle. As Travis and Gutjuk journey through the outback they begin to earn each other’s trust, but when the truths of Travis’ past actions are suddenly revealed, it is he who becomes the hunted.
Starring alongside Nayinggul and Baker are Jack Thompson, Witiyana Marika, Aaron Pedersen, Callan Mulvey, Ryan Corr, Caren Pistorius and Esmerelda Marimow.
High Ground, which premiered at the 2020 Berlin Internatioanl Film Festival, is written by Chris Anastassiades and produced by David Jowsey,...
- 2/2/2021
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
In a remarkable result, four Australian films – The Dry, Penguin Bloom, High Ground and Occupation: Rainfall – took home almost 50 per cent of the national box office last weekend.
The four titles together totaled $3.5 million, or 47 per cent of the total B.O of $7.5 million.
Such a strong local showing speaks to a variety of factors: the paucity of product from the US, good word-of-mouth and strong marketing campaigns by distributors.
The four titles’ performance is also a hopeful sign for the other Aussie films due in coming weeks, including documentary Wild Things (Potential Films), released this Thursday; dramas Long Story Short (Studiocanal) and Unsound (Filmink Presents) due on February 11; and Wayne Blair and Nel Minchin’s doco Firestarter: The Story of Bangarra (Icon) on February 18.
“With few Hollywood/international productions entering the market over the coming weeks, I expect this to continue for some time,” Village Cinemas national film programming manager Geoff Chard tells If.
The four titles together totaled $3.5 million, or 47 per cent of the total B.O of $7.5 million.
Such a strong local showing speaks to a variety of factors: the paucity of product from the US, good word-of-mouth and strong marketing campaigns by distributors.
The four titles’ performance is also a hopeful sign for the other Aussie films due in coming weeks, including documentary Wild Things (Potential Films), released this Thursday; dramas Long Story Short (Studiocanal) and Unsound (Filmink Presents) due on February 11; and Wayne Blair and Nel Minchin’s doco Firestarter: The Story of Bangarra (Icon) on February 18.
“With few Hollywood/international productions entering the market over the coming weeks, I expect this to continue for some time,” Village Cinemas national film programming manager Geoff Chard tells If.
- 2/1/2021
- by Jackie Keast
- IF.com.au
We made it! if.com.au is now on holiday hiatus, resuming January 13, 2021.
For all our e-subscribers, throughout the break we’ll send you newsletters with what we thought were our best, most pertinent and enjoyable reads of 2020 (I promise they’re not all just about Covid). If you’re not signed up, do so here.
On that, how does one even go about summing up 2020?
From the pandemic effectively shutting down the screen industry overnight, to policy shifts that signal quite a different future, it has been a momentous, difficult and important year.
To borrow 2020’s most overused word, much of what we’ve seen has been unprecedented. But at the same time, the pandemic has sped up shifts that were already happening.
For instance, pre-covid, we were wrapped up in discussion about theatrical windows and just how streaming was affecting the cinema business.
That conversation, of course, has only accelerated.
For all our e-subscribers, throughout the break we’ll send you newsletters with what we thought were our best, most pertinent and enjoyable reads of 2020 (I promise they’re not all just about Covid). If you’re not signed up, do so here.
On that, how does one even go about summing up 2020?
From the pandemic effectively shutting down the screen industry overnight, to policy shifts that signal quite a different future, it has been a momentous, difficult and important year.
To borrow 2020’s most overused word, much of what we’ve seen has been unprecedented. But at the same time, the pandemic has sped up shifts that were already happening.
For instance, pre-covid, we were wrapped up in discussion about theatrical windows and just how streaming was affecting the cinema business.
That conversation, of course, has only accelerated.
- 12/14/2020
- by Jackie Keast
- IF.com.au
Terry D. Porter, Writer’s Guild of America agent and founder of The Terry Porter Agency, died Monday, December 7, of heart failure in Sun City West, Az. He was 73.
His death was announced by his wife Claire Hutchinson.
Since 1990, Porter was a WGA signatory agent, representing screenwriters, producers, composers, and actors through Agape Productions and The Terry Porter Agency. Some of the companies he sold projects to include CBS, NBC, ABC, Turner Network, and Larry Levinson Productions. He represented talent such as producers the Saylors Brothers (Veil of Tears), Chako van Lewen (Piranha), Jack Thompson (Stagecoach), wife Claire Hutchinson (Lucky’s Treasure), among others.
Porter took the position of Chief Executive Officer of Flat Rock Motion Pictures in 2008. He also ran independent record company Flat Rock Records and operated his own music booking agency for several years. Among the individuals with whom he worked were jazz artists Billy Cobham, George Duke...
His death was announced by his wife Claire Hutchinson.
Since 1990, Porter was a WGA signatory agent, representing screenwriters, producers, composers, and actors through Agape Productions and The Terry Porter Agency. Some of the companies he sold projects to include CBS, NBC, ABC, Turner Network, and Larry Levinson Productions. He represented talent such as producers the Saylors Brothers (Veil of Tears), Chako van Lewen (Piranha), Jack Thompson (Stagecoach), wife Claire Hutchinson (Lucky’s Treasure), among others.
Porter took the position of Chief Executive Officer of Flat Rock Motion Pictures in 2008. He also ran independent record company Flat Rock Records and operated his own music booking agency for several years. Among the individuals with whom he worked were jazz artists Billy Cobham, George Duke...
- 12/9/2020
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Terry Porter, an agent and film and music executive who played drums for the ’60s rock group The Lemon Pipers on their No. 1 hit, “Green Tambourine,” has died. He was 73.
Porter died Monday of heart failure in Sun City West, Arizona, his wife, screenwriter Claire Hutchinson, announced.
Porter worked as an agent since 1990, and his clients included the filmmaking brothers Kenny and Kyle Saylors and writer-producer Jack Thompson. He also served as an executive producer on the 2005 documentary An Animated Life: The Phil Roman Story and ran Flat Rock Motion Pictures and Flat Rock ...
Porter died Monday of heart failure in Sun City West, Arizona, his wife, screenwriter Claire Hutchinson, announced.
Porter worked as an agent since 1990, and his clients included the filmmaking brothers Kenny and Kyle Saylors and writer-producer Jack Thompson. He also served as an executive producer on the 2005 documentary An Animated Life: The Phil Roman Story and ran Flat Rock Motion Pictures and Flat Rock ...
- 12/9/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Terry Porter, an agent and film and music executive who played drums for the ’60s rock group The Lemon Pipers on their No. 1 hit, “Green Tambourine,” has died. He was 73.
Porter died Monday of heart failure in Sun City West, Arizona, his wife, screenwriter Claire Hutchinson, announced.
Porter worked as an agent since 1990, and his clients included the filmmaking brothers Kenny and Kyle Saylors and writer-producer Jack Thompson. He also served as an executive producer on the 2005 documentary An Animated Life: The Phil Roman Story and ran Flat Rock Motion Pictures and Flat Rock ...
Porter died Monday of heart failure in Sun City West, Arizona, his wife, screenwriter Claire Hutchinson, announced.
Porter worked as an agent since 1990, and his clients included the filmmaking brothers Kenny and Kyle Saylors and writer-producer Jack Thompson. He also served as an executive producer on the 2005 documentary An Animated Life: The Phil Roman Story and ran Flat Rock Motion Pictures and Flat Rock ...
- 12/9/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Thai producer Soros Sukhum was Thursday honored with the Fiapf Award for outstanding achievement in film in the Asia Pacific region. The prize was presented as part of a heavily revamped Asia Pacific Screen Awards ceremony, at Gold Coast in Australia’s Queensland.
The Young Cinema Award was won by Indian filmmaker Akshay Indikar for “Chronicle of Space” (“Sthalpuran”), with a special mention going to Australia’s Stephen Maxwell Johnson for “High Ground.”
Earlier this year the Apsa Awards event’s future had seemed deeply clouded due to twin hits from financial problems and the coronavirus. Normally, a dozen prizes are awarded to artistic films from across the vast Unesco-defined Asia region.
In June, the Brisbane City Council and its offshoot Brisbane Marketing, notified Apsa organizers that they would not be able to fund the event due to the impact of the coronavirus on the city’s budget.
The...
The Young Cinema Award was won by Indian filmmaker Akshay Indikar for “Chronicle of Space” (“Sthalpuran”), with a special mention going to Australia’s Stephen Maxwell Johnson for “High Ground.”
Earlier this year the Apsa Awards event’s future had seemed deeply clouded due to twin hits from financial problems and the coronavirus. Normally, a dozen prizes are awarded to artistic films from across the vast Unesco-defined Asia region.
In June, the Brisbane City Council and its offshoot Brisbane Marketing, notified Apsa organizers that they would not be able to fund the event due to the impact of the coronavirus on the city’s budget.
The...
- 11/26/2020
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Stephen Johnson’s High Ground earned a special mention from The Young Cinema Award jury at this evening’s Asia Pacific Screen Awards, held on the Gold Coast.
Set in 1930s Arnhem Land, High Ground follows young Aboriginal man Gutjuk (Jacob Junior Nayinggul), who in a bid to save the last of his family teams up with ex-soldier Travis (Simon Baker) to track down the most dangerous warrior in the Territory – his uncle.
The Apsa jury praised the assured direction of Johnson, noting his film gave “voice to the issue of brutal colonisation.” Jack Thompson, Apsa president and star of the film, accepted the honour on behalf of the director.
High Ground premiered at the Berlin Film Festival and also stars Callan Mulvey, Witiyana Marika, Caren Pistorius and Ryan Corr. Madman Entertainment will release the drama, written by Chris Anastassiades and produced by David Jowsey, Johnson, Marika, Maggie Miles and Greer Simpkin,...
Set in 1930s Arnhem Land, High Ground follows young Aboriginal man Gutjuk (Jacob Junior Nayinggul), who in a bid to save the last of his family teams up with ex-soldier Travis (Simon Baker) to track down the most dangerous warrior in the Territory – his uncle.
The Apsa jury praised the assured direction of Johnson, noting his film gave “voice to the issue of brutal colonisation.” Jack Thompson, Apsa president and star of the film, accepted the honour on behalf of the director.
High Ground premiered at the Berlin Film Festival and also stars Callan Mulvey, Witiyana Marika, Caren Pistorius and Ryan Corr. Madman Entertainment will release the drama, written by Chris Anastassiades and produced by David Jowsey, Johnson, Marika, Maggie Miles and Greer Simpkin,...
- 11/26/2020
- by Jackie Keast
- IF.com.au
Set in 1930s Arnhem Land, High Ground chronicles young Aboriginal man Gutjuk, who in a bid to save the last of his family teams up with ex-soldier Travis to track down Baywara—the most dangerous warrior in the Territory, who is also his uncle. As Travis and Gutjuk journey through the outback they begin to earn each other’s trust, but when the truths of Travis’ past actions are suddenly revealed, it is he who becomes the hunted.
High Ground is directed Stephen Johnson (Yolngu Boy) and stars Simon Baker, Jack Thompson, Witiyana Marika, Aaron Pedersen, Callan Mulvey, Ryan Corr and Caren Pistorius and newcomers Jacob Junior Nayinggul and Esmerelda Marimow. Written by Anastassiades and produced by David Jowsey, Johnson, Marika, Maggie Miles and Greer Simpkin.
Madman Entertainment will release the film in cinemas January 28th, 2021.
The post ‘High Ground’ (Trailer) appeared first on If Magazine.
High Ground is directed Stephen Johnson (Yolngu Boy) and stars Simon Baker, Jack Thompson, Witiyana Marika, Aaron Pedersen, Callan Mulvey, Ryan Corr and Caren Pistorius and newcomers Jacob Junior Nayinggul and Esmerelda Marimow. Written by Anastassiades and produced by David Jowsey, Johnson, Marika, Maggie Miles and Greer Simpkin.
Madman Entertainment will release the film in cinemas January 28th, 2021.
The post ‘High Ground’ (Trailer) appeared first on If Magazine.
- 11/11/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
For the first time ever, Sydney Film Festival will run a summer season during January’s Sydney Festival.
To be held at The State Theatre, the weekend event will open with Nel Minchin and Wayne Blair’s Firestarter – The Story of Bangarra, which depicts the story of the Indigenous dance company and brothers Stephen, Russell, and David Page. Recently nominated for the Aacta Award for Best Documentary, the film is produced by Ivan O’Mahoney for In Films.
Other local fare will include Stephen Johnson’s 1930s-set drama High Ground, starring Simon Baker, Jack Thompson and Jacob Junior Nayinggul, and Christopher Nelius’ doco Girls Can’t Surf, which follows a band of women surfers who revolutionised the male-dominated sport in the 1980s.
From overseas, audiences will be treated to Sundance Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award winner Minari, from director Lee Issac Chung, and Thomas VInterberg’s alcohol-soaked dramedy Another Round.
To be held at The State Theatre, the weekend event will open with Nel Minchin and Wayne Blair’s Firestarter – The Story of Bangarra, which depicts the story of the Indigenous dance company and brothers Stephen, Russell, and David Page. Recently nominated for the Aacta Award for Best Documentary, the film is produced by Ivan O’Mahoney for In Films.
Other local fare will include Stephen Johnson’s 1930s-set drama High Ground, starring Simon Baker, Jack Thompson and Jacob Junior Nayinggul, and Christopher Nelius’ doco Girls Can’t Surf, which follows a band of women surfers who revolutionised the male-dominated sport in the 1980s.
From overseas, audiences will be treated to Sundance Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award winner Minari, from director Lee Issac Chung, and Thomas VInterberg’s alcohol-soaked dramedy Another Round.
- 11/11/2020
- by Jackie Keast
- IF.com.au
As cinemas across the country do it tough, Sydney Film Festival’s Traveling Film Festival has partnered with Independent Cinemas Australia (Ica) to present two curated programs of features and shorts designed to drive audiences back to local theatres.
Supported by Screen Australia, the initiative dubbed ‘My Cinema My Film Festival’ will run in 19 cinemas in metro and regional Nsw, Queensland, Wa, Sa and the Act across November and December.
The first program showcases independent and arthouse features from Australia and overseas, and the second a selection of Australian short films and interview footage.
Among the highlights is Stephen Johnson’s High Ground, starring Simon Baker, Jack Thompson and Jacob Junior Nayinggul, which will be the opening night film in each regional cinema.
Written by Chris Anastassiades and produced by Bunya Productions’ Greer Simpkin and David Jowsey, Maggie Miles, Johnson and Yothu Yindi co-founder Witiyana Marika, the film earned raves...
Supported by Screen Australia, the initiative dubbed ‘My Cinema My Film Festival’ will run in 19 cinemas in metro and regional Nsw, Queensland, Wa, Sa and the Act across November and December.
The first program showcases independent and arthouse features from Australia and overseas, and the second a selection of Australian short films and interview footage.
Among the highlights is Stephen Johnson’s High Ground, starring Simon Baker, Jack Thompson and Jacob Junior Nayinggul, which will be the opening night film in each regional cinema.
Written by Chris Anastassiades and produced by Bunya Productions’ Greer Simpkin and David Jowsey, Maggie Miles, Johnson and Yothu Yindi co-founder Witiyana Marika, the film earned raves...
- 10/29/2020
- by Jackie Keast
- IF.com.au
‘Never Too Late’ (Photo credit: Bradley Patrick).
The launches of the Liam Neeson action drama Honest Thief and Australian ‘geezer’ comedy Never Too Late helped reverse a three-week slide at cinemas last weekend.
But ticket sales remain depressed and the year-to-date national Bo total through Sunday is $334 million, a woeful 67.5 per cent down on last year’s $1.03 billion.
Among the limited releases, Polish drama Corpus Christi posted the weekend’s highest per-screen average while US indie comedy-drama Kajillionaire struggled. The Taika Waititi-produced Kiwi comedy Baby, Done did not resonate either.
Numero reported the top 20 titles generated $2.28 million, 7 per cent up on the previous frame.
The feature writing and directing debut of Ozark co-creator Mark Williams, Honest Thief stole $696,000 on 206 screens and $722,000 with previews for Rialto, in line with the US results where it’s been No. 1 for three weeks in a Covid-19 devastated market.
Neeson plays Tom Carter, a...
The launches of the Liam Neeson action drama Honest Thief and Australian ‘geezer’ comedy Never Too Late helped reverse a three-week slide at cinemas last weekend.
But ticket sales remain depressed and the year-to-date national Bo total through Sunday is $334 million, a woeful 67.5 per cent down on last year’s $1.03 billion.
Among the limited releases, Polish drama Corpus Christi posted the weekend’s highest per-screen average while US indie comedy-drama Kajillionaire struggled. The Taika Waititi-produced Kiwi comedy Baby, Done did not resonate either.
Numero reported the top 20 titles generated $2.28 million, 7 per cent up on the previous frame.
The feature writing and directing debut of Ozark co-creator Mark Williams, Honest Thief stole $696,000 on 206 screens and $722,000 with previews for Rialto, in line with the US results where it’s been No. 1 for three weeks in a Covid-19 devastated market.
Neeson plays Tom Carter, a...
- 10/26/2020
- by Don Groves
- IF.com.au
In this year of disruptions, cancellations and virtual events, it’s hard to fathom that the prestigious 11-day Adelaide Film Festival, held biennially in October in South Australia, has proceeded as in pre-pandemic times: no masks, actual red carpets, in-person interviews on stage with filmmakers and talent, afterparties (where social distancing is more a suggestion than a mandate) and free-flowing drinks and shared party plates.
“Party like it’s 2020,” the festival’s newly minted CEO and creative director, the effervescent Mat Kesting, announced to the champagne-swigging opening night crowd of around 850 people gathered at the trendy east end of Adelaide. But at this festival, it’s like being in a frothy bubble of freedom amid the fear and lockdowns that most of the rest of the world is currently enduring.
While the Sydney and Melbourne Film Festivals held earlier in the year were forced to take their events online amid city-wide lockdowns,...
“Party like it’s 2020,” the festival’s newly minted CEO and creative director, the effervescent Mat Kesting, announced to the champagne-swigging opening night crowd of around 850 people gathered at the trendy east end of Adelaide. But at this festival, it’s like being in a frothy bubble of freedom amid the fear and lockdowns that most of the rest of the world is currently enduring.
While the Sydney and Melbourne Film Festivals held earlier in the year were forced to take their events online amid city-wide lockdowns,...
- 10/22/2020
- by Katherine Tulich
- Variety Film + TV
Antony I. Ginnane.
After 50 years in the business of producing films, Antony I. Ginnane is calling on the screen industry to fight to help the next generation of creatives.
Ginnane slammed key measures of the Federal Government’s media reforms including lowering the Producer Offset for films to 30 per cent and exempting producers’ overheads from the minimum qualifying Australian production expenditure (Qape), coupled with the failure to impose local spending obligations on SVOD services.
“It’s vital that we push back on these changes to film regulations,” he said in a webinar with Screen Producers Australia CEO Matt Deaner. “We have to fight to help the next generation so they don’t come in and get screwed from the get-go.”
The producer who has more than 70 screen credits fears many films won’t get made because the ensuing funding gap of 15 per cent – 25 per cent will be impossible to fill.
After 50 years in the business of producing films, Antony I. Ginnane is calling on the screen industry to fight to help the next generation of creatives.
Ginnane slammed key measures of the Federal Government’s media reforms including lowering the Producer Offset for films to 30 per cent and exempting producers’ overheads from the minimum qualifying Australian production expenditure (Qape), coupled with the failure to impose local spending obligations on SVOD services.
“It’s vital that we push back on these changes to film regulations,” he said in a webinar with Screen Producers Australia CEO Matt Deaner. “We have to fight to help the next generation so they don’t come in and get screwed from the get-go.”
The producer who has more than 70 screen credits fears many films won’t get made because the ensuing funding gap of 15 per cent – 25 per cent will be impossible to fill.
- 10/9/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
‘High Ground’.
Adelaide Film Festival announced its first five titles today, as it pushes forward with a physical event in October as originally planned.
Among the early local fare is Stephen Johnson’s 1930s drama High Ground, which premiered earlier this year in Berlin, and documentaries Firestarter – The Story of Bangarra, from Nel Minchin and Wayne Blair, and Phil Liggett: The Voice of Cycling, from Nickolas Bird and Eleanor Sharpe.
The biennial festival has also snared the Australian premiere of Thomas Vinterberg’s comedy Another Round, direct from Toronto. Starring Mads Mikkelsen, the film was selected to screen in Cannes and follows four friends, all high school teachers, who test a theory that they will improve their lives by maintaining a constant level of alcohol in their blood.
Also on the line-up is Benjamin Lee’s The Painter and the Thief, this year’s winner of the Sundance Film Festival...
Adelaide Film Festival announced its first five titles today, as it pushes forward with a physical event in October as originally planned.
Among the early local fare is Stephen Johnson’s 1930s drama High Ground, which premiered earlier this year in Berlin, and documentaries Firestarter – The Story of Bangarra, from Nel Minchin and Wayne Blair, and Phil Liggett: The Voice of Cycling, from Nickolas Bird and Eleanor Sharpe.
The biennial festival has also snared the Australian premiere of Thomas Vinterberg’s comedy Another Round, direct from Toronto. Starring Mads Mikkelsen, the film was selected to screen in Cannes and follows four friends, all high school teachers, who test a theory that they will improve their lives by maintaining a constant level of alcohol in their blood.
Also on the line-up is Benjamin Lee’s The Painter and the Thief, this year’s winner of the Sundance Film Festival...
- 8/17/2020
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
‘High Ground’.
With Melbourne cinemas closed and most of those still in operation averaging capacities of 10 – 20 per cent, Madman Entertainment sensibly has decided to release Stephen Johnson’s High Ground next year.
The 1930s-set drama, which stars Simon Baker, Jacob Junior Nayinggul, Jack Thompson, Callan Mulvey, Aaron Pedersen, Caren Pistorius and Ryan Corr, was originally slated to open on July 9.
It will join a number of other Aussie titles dated for 2021, including Glendyn Ivin’s Penguin Bloom (January 1) and Robert Connolly’s The Dry (April 8), both Roadshow releases.
Inspired by true events, scripted by Chris Anastassiades and produced by Maggie Miles, Yothu Yindi co-founder Witiyana Marika, Johnson, David Jowsey and Greer Simpkin, High Ground has its world premiere in the Berlinale Special screenings section of the Berlin International Film Festival.
“High Ground obviously has had its trajectory post-Berlinale world premiere impacted by Covid-19,” Madman MD Paul Wiegard tells If.
“With...
With Melbourne cinemas closed and most of those still in operation averaging capacities of 10 – 20 per cent, Madman Entertainment sensibly has decided to release Stephen Johnson’s High Ground next year.
The 1930s-set drama, which stars Simon Baker, Jacob Junior Nayinggul, Jack Thompson, Callan Mulvey, Aaron Pedersen, Caren Pistorius and Ryan Corr, was originally slated to open on July 9.
It will join a number of other Aussie titles dated for 2021, including Glendyn Ivin’s Penguin Bloom (January 1) and Robert Connolly’s The Dry (April 8), both Roadshow releases.
Inspired by true events, scripted by Chris Anastassiades and produced by Maggie Miles, Yothu Yindi co-founder Witiyana Marika, Johnson, David Jowsey and Greer Simpkin, High Ground has its world premiere in the Berlinale Special screenings section of the Berlin International Film Festival.
“High Ground obviously has had its trajectory post-Berlinale world premiere impacted by Covid-19,” Madman MD Paul Wiegard tells If.
“With...
- 7/22/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
‘Relic’s’ Robyn Nevin with Natalie Erika James.
Natalie Erika James’ Relic continued its reign as the top title in its second weekend in the fractured US theatrical market while Mark Lamprell’s Never Too Late launched on a combination of virtual cinemas and hard tops.
Released by IFC Midnight, the psychological horror movie co-scripted by James and Christian White, rang up $US192,000 in its first weekend at 69 drive-ins: the biggest opening weekend in almost three months.
Last weekend the haunted house movie featuring Emily Mortimer, Robyn Nevin and Bella Heathcote expanded to 126 locations, generating $US236,000, which brings the 10-day total to $US581,000, according to Box Office Mojo.
Produced by Carver Films’ Anna McLeish and Sarah Shaw with Nine Stories Productions’ Jake Gyllenhaal and Riva Marker, Relic premiered on Stan on July 10 as a Stan Original.
The US distributor Blue Fox Entertainment launched Never Too Late in 15 hard tops plus...
Natalie Erika James’ Relic continued its reign as the top title in its second weekend in the fractured US theatrical market while Mark Lamprell’s Never Too Late launched on a combination of virtual cinemas and hard tops.
Released by IFC Midnight, the psychological horror movie co-scripted by James and Christian White, rang up $US192,000 in its first weekend at 69 drive-ins: the biggest opening weekend in almost three months.
Last weekend the haunted house movie featuring Emily Mortimer, Robyn Nevin and Bella Heathcote expanded to 126 locations, generating $US236,000, which brings the 10-day total to $US581,000, according to Box Office Mojo.
Produced by Carver Films’ Anna McLeish and Sarah Shaw with Nine Stories Productions’ Jake Gyllenhaal and Riva Marker, Relic premiered on Stan on July 10 as a Stan Original.
The US distributor Blue Fox Entertainment launched Never Too Late in 15 hard tops plus...
- 7/13/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Four Vietnam vets reunite for a mission, one that will lean on their wartime exploits but also expose more than a few old tensions. No, this is not a revisit of “Da 5 Bloods” but a brief description of the genial, cliché-encumbered, Aussie comedy “Never Too Late.” Directed by Mark Lamprell, it opens in virtual — and a few actual — cinemas nationwide on July 10.
Wily and determined, former special forces soldier Jack Bronson (James Cromwell) arrives at the Hogan Hills Retirement Home for Returned Servicemen and Women looking the worse for wear. He’s in a wheelchair and appears to have had a stroke. The facility’s ramrod director Lin (Renee Lim) admits him. After he’s taken to his new abode, we learn that decrepit act was subterfuge. He’s there to reconnect with the love of his long life, Norma (Jacki Weaver).
It’s Norma’s voiceover that starts the movie off,...
Wily and determined, former special forces soldier Jack Bronson (James Cromwell) arrives at the Hogan Hills Retirement Home for Returned Servicemen and Women looking the worse for wear. He’s in a wheelchair and appears to have had a stroke. The facility’s ramrod director Lin (Renee Lim) admits him. After he’s taken to his new abode, we learn that decrepit act was subterfuge. He’s there to reconnect with the love of his long life, Norma (Jacki Weaver).
It’s Norma’s voiceover that starts the movie off,...
- 7/10/2020
- by Lisa Kennedy
- Variety Film + TV
While much of Australia’s film and TV slate is currently being held up over insurance matters, production has now begun near Sydney on low budget feature “Dark Noise.” It is one of the first local films in Australia to start since the end of nationwide coronavirus lockdowns.
The film features the rising star of the British Shakespearean stage Imogen Sage (BBC TV’ “Doctors”) as a young woman foley artist alone in a forest listening for frogs. She hears something she shouldn’t have and stumbles upon a cocaine farm. Other cast includes features Callan Colley (“The Letdown”), Brett Rogers (“Rake”) and Australia’s Leah Vandenberg and Lauren Clair (“Packed To The Rafters,” “Underbelly”).
“Dark Noise” is written and directed by Clara Chong and produced and shot by her partner Ben Allan. Carlo Giacco serves as the film’s composer, while Sam Wilde is the production designer. Production is by Main Course Films company,...
The film features the rising star of the British Shakespearean stage Imogen Sage (BBC TV’ “Doctors”) as a young woman foley artist alone in a forest listening for frogs. She hears something she shouldn’t have and stumbles upon a cocaine farm. Other cast includes features Callan Colley (“The Letdown”), Brett Rogers (“Rake”) and Australia’s Leah Vandenberg and Lauren Clair (“Packed To The Rafters,” “Underbelly”).
“Dark Noise” is written and directed by Clara Chong and produced and shot by her partner Ben Allan. Carlo Giacco serves as the film’s composer, while Sam Wilde is the production designer. Production is by Main Course Films company,...
- 6/8/2020
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
In today’s film news roundup, Studio Movie Grill hires an industry veteran to handle marketing, the HFPA elects its board, and “Sometimes Always Never” and “Never Too Late” get virtual releases.
Executive Hired
Studio Movie Grill has hired former AMC Entertainment executive Tonya Mangels as head of revenue and marketing for the chain, which operates 353 screens in 10 states.
She will report to CEO Brian Schultz. While at AMC, Mangels was a vice president overseeing brand strategy, studio marketing, loyalty data analytics partnerships, mobile app/kiosk ordering, digital streaming launch and food and beverage marketing.
“We are excited to welcome guests back to enjoying movies on the big screen with the reopening of Smg Theaters starting June 19, ” Schultz said. “Aligning with our vision, we will be donating 10% of all ticket and food and beverage proceeds throughout opening weekend (June 19-21) to support Smg team members at locations nationwide still furloughed...
Executive Hired
Studio Movie Grill has hired former AMC Entertainment executive Tonya Mangels as head of revenue and marketing for the chain, which operates 353 screens in 10 states.
She will report to CEO Brian Schultz. While at AMC, Mangels was a vice president overseeing brand strategy, studio marketing, loyalty data analytics partnerships, mobile app/kiosk ordering, digital streaming launch and food and beverage marketing.
“We are excited to welcome guests back to enjoying movies on the big screen with the reopening of Smg Theaters starting June 19, ” Schultz said. “Aligning with our vision, we will be donating 10% of all ticket and food and beverage proceeds throughout opening weekend (June 19-21) to support Smg team members at locations nationwide still furloughed...
- 6/4/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Ivan Sen’s ‘Mystery Road’.
Sydney Film Festival has selected Rachel Perkins’ Mabo and Ivan Sen’s Mystery Road for Tribeca Enterprises/YouTube’s free global online film festival, We Are One.
Sydney is just one of the 21 participating festivals in the event, with others including Tribeca, Cannes, Venice, Berlin, Toronto and Sundance.
More than 100 films will screen from this Friday May 29 to June 7 on YouTube, together with talks, Vr content and musical performances, all with the aim of raising money for the World Health Organisation’s Covid-19 Solidarity Response Fund and local relief partners in each region.
The programming represents over 35 countries and includes 23 narrative and eight documentary features, 57 narrative and 15 documentary short films, 15 archived talks, along with four festival exclusives and five Vr programming pieces.
In selecting films to put forward, Sydney Film Festival director Nashen Moodley was challenged by Tribeca to look to films that had an...
Sydney Film Festival has selected Rachel Perkins’ Mabo and Ivan Sen’s Mystery Road for Tribeca Enterprises/YouTube’s free global online film festival, We Are One.
Sydney is just one of the 21 participating festivals in the event, with others including Tribeca, Cannes, Venice, Berlin, Toronto and Sundance.
More than 100 films will screen from this Friday May 29 to June 7 on YouTube, together with talks, Vr content and musical performances, all with the aim of raising money for the World Health Organisation’s Covid-19 Solidarity Response Fund and local relief partners in each region.
The programming represents over 35 countries and includes 23 narrative and eight documentary features, 57 narrative and 15 documentary short films, 15 archived talks, along with four festival exclusives and five Vr programming pieces.
In selecting films to put forward, Sydney Film Festival director Nashen Moodley was challenged by Tribeca to look to films that had an...
- 5/26/2020
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
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