Around the Sun
Apr
1
to Jan 29

Around the Sun

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About the Film

Around the Sun

Bernard, a film location scout, is shown a repossessed and crumbling French chateau. Over the course of the afternoon, he slowly falls for both the place and its owner’s flirtatious representative, Maggie, who recounts the story of an influential popular-science book written and set there.

But is their present-tense connection for real, or just a projection of the book’s 17th-century characters?

Where to see it - Cinemas

Cast:

CARA THEOBOLD - Maggie

GETHIN ANTHONY - Bernard

Where to View:


Film Details

Completed : March 2019

Theatrical Release : April 2019

Budget : $1M GBP

Running Time : 78m

Country of Origin : UK

Screener : Screener Link (Password required)

Genre: Romance / Drama / Science Fiction

Festivals, awards and other info - IMDb

Director’s Statement

It all started with a château: 400 years old and crumbling, set in an overgrown garden, its majesty still shining through the neglect. Its new owners, friends of mine, invited me to make a film there. That was an easy choice – I’d fallen in love with the place.

Diving into the chateau’s history I found out about a famous book that had been written there in 1686: Conversations on the Plurality of Worlds, by Bernard Le Bovier de Fontenelle. Using this a starting point, and blending it with ideas he’d had for stories we could set at the château, the seed of a story began to reveal itself to Jon Kiefer, which eventually coalesced into Around the Sun.

The script is all Jon’s work but its themes are deeply personal to me: the loss of identity as someone who spans two different cultures; hope and imagination as the kickstarter of broken dreams; and the all-powerful need to connect with someone at the deepest level, whilst sharing a mutual thirst for knowledge. As a kid, spending summer nights gazing up at the crystal-clear night sky in Greece, I was captivated by the limitlessness possibility of the universe. Making this film connected me back to that feeling.

The elements of the script that might give someone pause – a single location, only two characters, and reams of geeky dialogue – are just the things that drove me to make it.

I loved the idea of making an intimate film about really big ideas. And our film at its heart explores one of the simplest and biggest: the connection of two souls. As our lead character Maggie reminds us: there are infinite universes, and so infinite possibilities for connection, but by that definition, there are also infinite ways to miss out. In that sense, true connection is both a miracle and an inevitability.

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Reviews

“★★★★ This confident feature debut by British-Greek director Oliver Krimpas, elegantly written by Jonathan Kiefer, is unique, its own special, weird thing that leaves a long, pleasant, earthy aftertaste, like vintage calvados.”

Leslie Felperin - The Guardian | , Read full review

“Clever and genial”

Edward Porter, Sunday Times | Read full review

"★★★★  The sheer originality of this film makes it remarkable, but it is all the more extraordinary for being a debut feature.”

Mansel Stimpson, Film Review Daily | Read full review

“A lot of time and resources get channelled into big movies that feel intrinsically empty; here's a small film - 79 minutes, two actors, one location which contains multitudes.”

Mike McCahill, Cinésthesia | Read full review 

“★★★★, FILM OF THE WEEK: A truly unique and beautiful enigma of love, belonging, and science-fiction...Around the Sun is nothing short of magical."

Neil Baker, Cinerama | Read full review

“Around the Sun is a witty, humorous, thoughtful take about science, cosmology and romance. Its 85-minutes runtime seem to drift by effortlessly, and right after it ends you pine for more. Although movies that are generally dependant on conversations tend to drag after a bit, this one does an excellent job at keeping the story tight and interesting. The leads’ brilliant acting is also a plus. The movie makes you think and fall in love – with the people, the surrounding and the music that binds everything together.”

Leisurebyte | Read full review

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Paper Spiders
May
6
to Jan 29

Paper Spiders

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WRITTEN BY : Inon Shampainer & Natalie Shampainer
DIRECTED BY : Inon Shampainer

About the Film

Paper Spiders

When Melanie’s mother Dawn begins to fear her neighbour, she is forced to make tough choices to keep them both safe, all while navigating her life, love and her own mistakes.

Starring New Zealander Stefania LaVie Owen (Sweet Tooth); Lili Taylor (The Conjuring) and Peyton List (Cobra Kai), the film premiered at the Boston Film Festival, where it won awards for Best Film, Best Actress (Taylor), Best Screenplay and Best Ensemble Cast.


Cast:

STEFANIA LAVIE OWEN - Melanie

LILI TAYLOR - Dawn

PEYTON LIST - Lacy

IAN NELSON - Daniel

All Cast & Crew

Where to View:

Film Details

Completed : 2020

Theatrical Release : USA - September 2020, Canada - March 2021, NZ - April 2023

Budget : $3M USD

Running Time : 109m

Country of Origin : USA

Screener Link : Click here (password required)

Classification : PG, Mild themes, violence and coarse language

New Zealand Theatrical Classification : M - Drug use and offensive language.

Genre: Drama

Festivals/Awards - Gotham Awards (Nominated for Outstanding Lead Performance), Boston Film Festival (Won - Best Screenplay, Won - Best Ensemble Cast, Won - Best Film, Won - Best Actress).


Director’s Statement

'Paper Spiders' is a bittersweet story about coming of age in the shadow of mental illness. The film is a journey from comedy to tragedy — much like the life of its main characters, and the personal lives of my co-writer and wife Natalie, her mother, and myself, over the past decade.

In telling a story inspired by our experiences, we wish to shed light on the unexplored subject of delusional disorder, and the pain mental illness inflicts on individuals and family members. The tonal shift from comedy to tragedy reflects the manner in which quirky neurosis can develop into full-fledged psychosis, and a loving relationship can deteriorate into catastrophe and heartbreak.

We hope that the film will be able to contribute to personal and public conversations about supporting individuals with mental illness and overcoming the shame that is attached to discussing the topic.

The film features outstanding performances from Lili Taylor and Stefania Owen as well as our terrific supporting cast, including Peyton List, Ian Nelson, David Rasche, Max Casella, Michael Cyril Creighton and Tom Papa. It was a true labor of love for the cast and crew, the supportive community of Syracuse NY where the film was shot, and for our wonderful producers Anne Clements, and Ash Christian - who sadly just passed away at the age of 35. He was a real champion of indie cinema, and will be missed by everyone who collaborated with him on the making of this film.

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Reviews

"Taylor plays Dawn’s slide into this mental health crisis beautifully, and Owen is stunning... brings a rare honesty and authenticity to this film about mental illness."

LA Times | Read full review

"Excellent performances by Lili Taylor and Stefania LaVie Owen ground this compassionate drama"

Variety | Read full review

“Touching, impactful, meaningful and sincere... Taylor is terrific”

Times Herald | Read full review

“A message film spiked with welcome humor, its excellent cast is led by the reliably compelling Lili Taylor”

The Hollywood Reporter | Read full review

“In Inon Shampanier’s masterful “Paper Spiders”, the anguish of mental illness is in the details... The storytelling, acting and cinematography is sheer perfection.”

Film Critic.co | Read full review

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Santa Hunters
Mar
1
to Jan 21

Santa Hunters

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WRITTEN BY : Richard Jamze & Natalie Rose
DIRECTED BY : Richard Jamze & Natalie Rose

About the Film

Santa Hunters

An Australian Mockumentary following three hunters as they each try to catch the Jolly Man himself, Santa Claus.

Cast:

Chris Slater - Kristopher Hunt

Janelle Bailey - Dr. Evelyn Kaur

Andrew Lowe - Nicholas ‘Nick’ Saint

Tom Macpherson - Andy Wiseman

Full Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 15 June 2024

Running Time : 97m

Country of Origin : Australia

Screener Link : CLICK HERE (password required)

Genre : Comedy

Directors Statement

Santa Hunters starts as a goofy tale with funny characters trying to do something silly. But just as you're getting cozy, it pulls the rug out from underneath you, transforming into a story about those who dare to dream. Surrounded by others who don't believe in them, and impossible odds, they push on anyway. We know there is an audience who will relate to this. Especially those of us in creative industries. We have big dreams. The odds are near impossible. But we push on anyway. This story is testament to that resilience. It was made by a small team with big hearts and sparse wallets, who come from those places of fear and doubt, who are told our passions and pursuits are foolish, and then who went ahead and did it anyway. And we love what we created. If you’re reading this, we think you’ll love it too.

Merry Christmas, and Happy Hunting, Richard & Natalie.

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Avarice
Aug
10
to Jan 29

Avarice

WRITTEN BY : Adam Enslow, Dane Millerd & Andrew Slattery
DIRECTED BY : John V. Soto

About the Film

Avarice

A gifted archer must rescue her husband and daughter after they are abducted during a vicious home invasion.

Cast:

Gillian Alexy - Kate Matthews

Luke Ford - Ash Matthews

Tom O’Sullivan - Ryker

Priscilla-Anne Jacob - Susan

Alex Fleri - Jim

All Cast & Crew

Where to View

Film Details

Completed : 2022

Theatrical Release : December, 2022 (Reading Cinemas)

Budget : $1.5m

Running Time : 88m

Country of Origin : Australia

Screener Link : Upon Request

Classification : M

Genre : Action Thriller

Festivals/Awards : Selected for the Montreal Independent Film Festival (2022) -- won "Best Thriller", Selected for CinefestOz (2022).

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Review

“A fast-paced thriller that has enough surprises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats."

Stephen Romei - The Australian

“Soto effectively ratchets up the tension from scene to gripping scene, and makes Kate such a strong, sympathetic figure – and the bad guys such reprehensible shit-heels – that audiences will likely let out a cheer when she gets out her bow and arrows and sets about using the villains for target practice. Smartly put together and entertaining, Avarice is a rock-solid homegrown thriller."

Film Ink | Read full review

“The moments that Soto and his pro team of contributors make work - solid character acting, pacy action moments and arrow-on-antagonist payback make Avarice another mid-budget milestone for the filmmaker”

Simon Foster - Screen Space | Read full review

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Peak Season
Dec
1
to Mar 1

Peak Season

About the Film

Peak Season

New York yuppies Amy and Max arrive in the wealthy resort town of Jackson Hole, Wyoming for a summer vacation. Amy wants to enjoy a romantic getaway with her fiancé. But Max neglects Amy to spend the week working, leaving her to wander town alone. Amy finds a friend in Loren, a local wilderness guide who takes her fly fishing. She's immediately drawn to this magnetic, free-spirited stranger. Both lonely and lost in their own lives, Amy and Loren share an instant connection. When Max is called away on business, Amy and Loren spend the week together exploring the Tetons. As her bond with Loren grows into something more than friendship, Amy questions whether she'll return to NYC with Max after all.

Cast:

Claudia Restrepo - Amy Jimenez

Derrick Joseph DeBlasis - Loren

Ben Coleman - Max Rosen

Fred Melamed - George Friedman

Full Cast and Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2023

Running Time : 82m

Screener: Click HERE (Password Required)

Country of Origin : USA

Genre : Comedy, Drama Romance

Festivals/Awards : ReFrame (2023) - Best FeatureSXSW (2023)

Movie Poster

Directors Statement

  • Henry’s family is originally from the east coast, and although they’ve been living in Jackson for nearly two decades, they probably have more in common with George & Lydia Friedman than anyone else in the film. So it’s especially fun for us to lovingly tease that community, especially the cowboy cosplay you see around town. As Lydia describes in the movie, one is bound to see hedge fund managers and movie stars wearing wrangler jeans, Stetsons and driving Ford pickup trucks. We know a banker from New York who spends his summers in Wyoming where he dresses like the Marlboro Man and exclusively answers to the name “Broncho”. Satire aside, the community is struggling with a serious affordable housing crisis. Wealthy tourists and second-home owners have flocked to Jackson looking for an authentic Western experience. As a result, Teton County now has the highest per capita income in the country. The cost of living has skyrocketed, affordable housing is practically nonexistent, and middle and working-class people have been driven out. So the conflicts between locals, transplants and tourists make for great drama.

    Teton County is among the wealthiest communities in the country. Yet, service workers, outdoor guides and undocumented families are sleeping in their cars and overcrowded trailers. Some people travel for hours over treacherous mountain roads to commute to work in Jackson each day. The extreme income inequality in Jackson is just a microcosm of what’s happening around the country. Although this is first and foremost a romance about two people, we also felt it was important to capture the real issues facing towns like Jackson.

    Henry’s gotten to know many mountain guides like Loren - outcasts and oddballs who eschew the normal 9-5 for a life of outdoor adventure. There’s a tendency among tourists visiting Jackson to romanticize people like Loren. Of course, this is just a fantasy. The skid life comes with its own hardships. Ironically, many of the wilderness guides we’ve talked to have shared that they feel jealous of their clients, who have economic security, a career that can sustain them through middle age, a community to call home (when many wilderness guides have a seasonal, itinerant lifestyle). One of the outdoor guides that we interviewed put it very well – “For my clients, a week-long trip into the wilderness is like a can opener on their life. Good things and bad are gonna spill out.” People leave these trips convinced they’re going to quit their job, leave their spouse, move to a farm... but then one step onto the jet bridge at JFK and they snap out of it and go back to living their life.

    As we enter our 30s, we're seeing our friends settling down, starting families, and committing to their careers. It’s scary to think that as we age, making significant life changes will become more and more challenging. That’s what we wanted to capture with this story, this fear of inertia taking over. For Amy, that means her life with Max and his family, New York, the corporate grind. And for Loren it’s the “skid” life, economic insecurity, and loneliness. There are pros and cons to each lifestyle, so both Amy & Loren find themselves dissatisfied and uncertain about their choices. But in the end, the forces of ‘time, pressure and inertia’ in their lives are so strong that they can’t bring themselves to make a change. And would that even be the right thing to do? Maybe the restlessness they’re feeling isn’t the result of bad life choices but because asking “what if?” is an inevitable part of the human experience?

    Even though she’s a far cry from a buttoned-up NYC management consultant (her nose ring and tattoos had to take a leave of absence for this film), our lead actress Claudia Restrepo felt she could bring authenticity and lived experience to the character of Amy. Both women are the ambitious children of immigrants who struggle to reconcile their family’s hopes and dreams with their own. Claudia has also spent quite a bit of time in Jackson Hole feeling a little out of place in the mostly white, affluent resort town.

    Our lead actor Derrick DeBlasis had never gone fly fishing before, so he spent several nervous weeks before the shoot binge-watching YouTube to learn proper technique and lingo. Once he arrived in Wyoming he finally got proper fly fishing instruction from Henry’s father and brother. YouTube is still recommending Derrick obscure fly fishing content to this day. Truthfully the character Loren came very naturally to Derrick. He spends a lot of time camping around the rural west with his beloved husky Scout, who cameos as Dorothy in the film. He sees some of himself in Loren’s wanderer spirit.

    Ben Coleman is originally from New York and knows too many guys like Max. He seemed to have a never ending reserve of improvised one liners to dish out on camera. But Ben somehow managed to find that perfect sweet spot between an insufferable douche and a loving, sincere and dependable boyfriend. It’s arguably the most nuanced character in the film, played without judgment. Whatever his faults, Max cares for Amy. We wanted the audience to struggle with fully making their mind up about him. Having collaborated with Ben previously on “The End of US,” we knew he would fully deliver on this complex, singular character. Truly our secret weapon was that Derrick, Claudia, and Ben all worked and performed together several times before, on both our previous feature “The End of Us” and a short film “Barking.” We knew they could trust each other as scene partners, to improvise without losing the thread of the story. Above everything else in the film, Jackson happens to be one of the most spectacular places on the planet and a dream location for a filmmaker. Point the camera in any direction and you’re bound to capture something stunning. Production brought us to every corner of the valley. We fished the Snake River, climbed 10 thousand feet to the rim of the Grand Teton and chased lightning storms through the Gros Ventre Wilderness. Making this movie was the great adventure of our lives. And we’re very proud to share it with you.

    - Henry Loevner & Steven Kanter

Reviews

‘Within the first few minutes, Peak Season proves itself to be a great hidden gem for lovers of the genre –and by the end, it cements itself as one of the year’s best films overall.’

LOUD & CLEAR REVIEWS | Read Review Here

‘It’s a rare film that takes you on a journey without ever feeling forced or showy – a quiet masterpiece that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.’

MORBIDLY BEAUTIFUL | Read Review Here

‘…Peak Season manages to craft a heartfelt, authentic, and endearing portrayal of friendship that will not only entertain, but will provoke some thought, too.’

COLLIDER | Read Review Here

Peak Season is a well-written and engaging drama. The characters are likable and relatable. The three leads are perfect and play off each other wonderfully.’

FILM THREAT | Read Review Here

The characters were so real and relatable. Beautifully shot film. Charming and subtle humor throughout kept me laughing. Just a refreshing peak into the genuine connection between two strangers.

ROTTEN TOMATOES | Read Review Here

‘On its surface, Peak Season is a light, charming big city girl meets small town boy romantic-comedy that we’ve seen countless times. But as it goes on it surprises you with its surprisingly complex philosophical musings about life, what we want, and what we think want. Where Peak Season ends up is more emotional but life-affirming than you can imagine for a romantic-comedy. If anything, it’s a late twentysomething dramedy that is as deeply introspective and life-affirming as it is charming and funny.’

SMASH CUT | Read Review Here

‘Between the gorgeously considered shots of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where Peak Season takes place, and the small details defining each character, the film is a breath of fresh, high-altitude air.’

THE DAILY BEAST | Read Review Here

The characters and emotion build so smoothly over the course of the movie. The subtle and understated tone amplified how I felt about what was happening on screen, and I found myself deeply relating to the characters' experiences.

ROTTEN TOMATOES | Read Review Here

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The Red
Aug
2
to Jan 30

The Red

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WRITTEN BY : Richard Barcaricchio & Ryan Coonan
DIRECTED BY : Ryan Coonan

About the Film

The Red

In a remote Australian town, terror takes the form of Rippy, a giant Zombie Kangaroo.

As the undead-roo leaves a trail of carnage in its wake, the only hope lies in local police officer Maddy. With the help of the town, Maddy takes on the creature in a battle for survival and a desperate mission to stop Rippy. Proving once again that in Australia, everything really is trying to kill you. 

Cast:

Micheal Biehn

Tess Haubrich

Aaron Pederson

Angie Milliken

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : January 2024

Budget : $7.5m AUD

Running Time : 83m

Country of Origin : Australia

Screener Link: Click Here (password required)

Genre: Drama/Thriller

Directors Statement

‘The Red’ is a story about understanding one's true worth. It explores the conflict between obligation and freedom of choice, the grief of losing a loved one and the lies we tell ourselves, and each other, to protect the memories of those that have passed. It is also about a 7ft tall undead kangaroo, and the start of the apocalypse. ‘The Red’ is a horror comedy film influenced by classic creature features such as ‘The Thing’, ‘An American Werewolf in London’, ‘Jaws’ and ‘Razorback’. This story builds on my short film ‘Waterborne’ and my own experiences growing up in a small rural town, where my father was the local cop. The feature film allows us to see much more of Rippy; the iconic undead kangaroo that made the short a viral success. Even bigger and deadlier than before, we will be using the success of Rippy to bring even more thrills and kills to what ultimately is a fun piece that also deals with some dramatically weighty themes. The film delivers moments of suspense and enough blood and guts to keep the promise of what the short film established. Set in outback Queensland, the sonic landscape will exploit the isolated locations and feature some of the naturally horrific bush and animal sounds that exist in the remote outback. Ultimately, the audience will be drawn into this allegorical world of outback Australia and experience alongside Maddy, the thrills and scares that only a remote setting at night can deliver. Thanks to the authentic small town characters that inhabit this world, ‘The Red’ will deliver genuine horror, punctuated by real moments of pathos, and levity.

- Ryan Coonan

Articles

“Filming is officially underway on the survival horror film The Red, a feature expansion of director Ryan Coonan’s 2014 short film Waterborne.”

Jo Blo | Read more

“Ryan Coonan directs from a script he wrote with Richard Barcaricchio based on their short film Waterborne. Produced in 2014, Waterborne played at more than 70 festivals including Fantasia, Fantastic Fest and Sitges.”

Deadline | Read more

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The Pines
Nov
30
to Jan 31

The Pines

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The Pines

About the Film

A ruthless band of outlaws comes upon a woman held captive by a group of renegades. Upon freeing her, she tells a story of ancient Aztec treasure. Blinded by greed, the cadre agrees to give her freedom but only if she leads them to the ancient treasure.

Traveling deep into unknown lands, the outlaws are about to find out that you can’t outdraw the Devil.

Characters :

Catherine - She is as beautiful as she is mysterious. She was on an expedition with her father when he discovered the fabled treasure of the ancient Aztecs. The outlaws get the feeling that there is something not quite right about Catherine, they are not sure they can trust her but the greed for the gold is stronger than their apprehensions.

Jim – The war made him a leader – rational and calm, it also made him a cold-blooded killer with little remorse for his victims. That is, until his youngest brother arrives to save Jim from the hangman’s noose. Now, he must do everything in his power to save his brother from the outside threats as well as those from within.

Chet – Wars have the winners and losers and despite surviving the war, Chet did not come out unscathed. He has what would be diagnosed today as PTSD. Whether it was under the confederate division he fought or when he rode with Quantrill’s Raiders or in the band of brothers and cousins he rides with now, he has always been the toughest and most violent of the lot; the perfect amoral killer. His idea of shooting Catherine rather than bringing her along is emblematic of his sociopathic tendencies. Chet is a man to steer clear from.

Conny – The youngest and only other living brother of Jim, he is a cherub faced innocent who was too young to fight in the war and has had a pious upbringing. It helps govern his behavior around Catherine. His morality compared t

o the others is noticeable. His sole purpose was to save Jim and bring him back to their ailing mother that is until they find Catherine, he now stands to protect her against the outlaws, he also cannot deny a growing fondness for the girl.

Val – Younger brother to Chet. Devilishly handsome and knows it, he is always on the look out for a pretty woman. Chet comments that Val has more notches on his gun belt for women than for kills he’s made. But there is a dark side to Val, he can be unruly and downright vicious if he doesn’t get what he wants.

Lemuel – Chet and Jim put up with Lemuel because he’s family - second cousin - and lifelong compadre to Val. His real name is Francis but as boys growing up they all started to refer to him as Pecker and the name stuck.

Cliff – Is the oldest of the team, he is an uncle to the outlaws and has been the bedrock and stalwart companion to the group during the war and into their outlawing days, he was Jim’s confident and right hand man. Losing Cliff causes Jim to lose some of his balance in decision making and leadership.

Film Details

Completed : This film is currently in production. More information will be shared about this production as it comes to light.

Country of Origin : Australian

Filmed : Queensland

Genre : Supernatural, Thriller

Production and Writing Team

Dan Mintz is an award-winning American Filmmaker, Entrepreneur, and founder of a global entertainment company, DMG Entertainment. He has developed mega-blockbuster films, television shows, comic publishing, e-sports, virtual reality and live attractions. As a Producer, Dan has made films such as Iron Man 3, Looper, Point Break, and Bloodshot. He has worked on films with talents including Robert Downey Jr., Johnny Depp, Vin Diesel, Bruce Wills, Emily Blunt, Morgan Freeman, Guy Pierce, Sir Ben Kingsley, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Rebecca Hall, Kate Mara, Gwyneth Paltrow, Edgar Ramirez, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and James Cameron and with such major motion picture studios as Marvel, Disney, Warner Bros, Paramount, and SONY/Columbia. His international visionary early roots gave him immense insight and value as he took his company public to a value of seven billion dollars. 

Dan is also the founder of Valiant Entertainment, a subsidiary of DMG Entertainment. Valiant Entertainment is a leading character-based entertainment company that owns and controls the third most extensive library of superheroes behind Marvel and DC. With more than 90 million issues sold and a library of over 2,000 characters, including X-O Manowar, Bloodshot, Harbinger, Shadowman, Archer & Armstrong, and many more, Valiant is one of the most successful publishers in the history of the comic book medium.

Jessica Butland is the owner and founder of Radioactive Pictures, a motion picture production and distribution company at the forefront of independent Australian and New Zealand cinema. Jessica is a producer of feature film, handling development, financing and production through to worldwide sales through her partners.

Radioactive, the distribution side of the business can handle theatrical, physical and digital distribution of films. Radioactive’s latest film in theatres, Ruby’s Choice, starred Jane Seymour and  released Australia wide. In addition to producing films through her company, Jessica is a highly experienced production manager working with other producers to bring their stories to screen.

Mike Burkenbine began his entertainment career at Nielsen Marketing Research where he developed and implemented the first inter-studio, feature film, analytic and tracking system, VideoScan ™. Utilizing his ground-breaking system Mike also devised analytical techniques used to forecast feature film revenue, optimize distribution, improve acquisition selection, as well as create winning marketing tactics and strategies. Mike directly impacted the revenue at The Walt Disney Company, Warner Bros., Sony Pictures Entertainment, and NBC/Universal studios for more than 15 years. Also, during this time Mike completed his MBA in Entertainment at the University of Southern California. Currently, is a screenwriter, producer, and consultant to independent filmmakers.

Jeff Ritchie is leading the Writing Team and currently works for DMG Entertainment as the SVP of creative development. He works closely with DMG President and CEO Dan Mintz on building out the film and television universe for Valiant Comics, the third largest connected superhero universe behind Marvel and DC. Jeff began his career in the early 90s as a crew member on independent feature films but quickly rose to producer, producing several features throughout the years. In addition to his creative work at DMG, he has also penned several scripts three of which were produced, with one winning the prestigious best film award at the Venice Film Festival. He has also had several of his scripts optioned: one with Sony Pictures and another with Lionsgate Entertainment. 

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An Ordinary Day
Dec
1
to Jan 31

An Ordinary Day

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About the Film

An Ordinary Day

Blaming himself for the death of his eldest son, a guilt ridden father must build a new relationship with the younger son he abandoned in order to save them both.

Actors

Martin Sacks - Sweet River, Ride Like A Girl, The Second, Don’t Tell, Truth, Wentworth, A Place to Call Home, Rake, Underbelly, Blue Heelers


Susie Porter - Ladies In Black, The Second, Cargo, Don’t Tell, Little Fish, Two Hands, Wentworth, Seven Types of Ambiguity, Puberty Blues


Daniela Farinacci - Lion, Glitch, Lantana, Little Fish, Carla Cametti PD, The Secret Life of Us, Blue Heelers


Ursula Yovich - Top End Wedding, Mystery Road, Wakefield, Goldstone, Jindabyne, Redfern Now, The Gods of Wheat Street Nathaniel Dean- The Nightingale, Alien:Covenant, Wentworth, Secret City, Candy, Somersault, All Saints

We have yet to cast the role of Liam which offers a brilliant opportunity for us to discover a new Australian teen male actor with the depth to play this enormous part who’s not had a chance to shine yet – perhaps we’ll find the next Heath Ledger. That is our hope” Tori Garrett.

Film Details

Completed : This film is currently in production. More information will be shared about this production as it comes to light.

Theatrical Release : Worldwide

Country of Origin : Australia

Producer’s Statement

Producer, Leanne Tonkes says AN ORDINARY DAY is an emotionally searing and heart-warming story about the mutual redemption of a father and son. It is a tender uplifting character driven drama that explores the essence of fatherhood and male vulnerability with the emotional punch and naturalistic style of such films as Nomadland, Manchester by the Sea, and The Rider.

With a combination of realism and elegant poetic lyricism, our film examines how human connection, driven by kindness, is a fundamental need that can drive us to overcome the most profound guilt, fear and mutual self-loathing. It explores the idea that on any ordinary day, a single event can change the course of one’s life forever but through forgiveness and the struggle to overcome, it is possible to come back from the unthinkable.

Masculine norms built on decades of cinema, television and societal expectations have conditioned men that the virtues of masculinity include stoicism, risk-taking, and intelligence-driven decision-making. That focus comes at a cost: studies have shown that male vulnerability is an asset in terms of developing strong leadership, building healthy relationships, promoting positive mental health behaviours, and reinforcing positive fatherly relationships.

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Zombie Plane
Jan
30
to Jan 31

Zombie Plane

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About the Film

Zombie Plane

When a plane from Sydney to LA is taken over by Zombies, an eclectic group of high-profile passengers led by celebrities-turned secret agents must band together and fight to save humanity.

Around the world celebrities, actresses and musicians are seen by day as the famous public faces we all know and love, but by night and behind the curtains they are saving the world from all manner of under-wraps attacks, including the very real threat of Zombies. Lead by Commander Chuck Norris, these celebrities are often the only thing standing between world peace and humanities’ destruction.

  • With Zombies munching on unsuspected travelers, and the cockpit locked and overrun by an unknown entity, he gathers a band of unlikely survivors for a Zombie killing mission. Only with his trusted tools will they be able to break open the cockpit door and take control of the plane. On their way, they face harrowing encounters with never-before-seen Zombies, who’s DNA has been infused with different animals - including super fast cheetah like Zombies, strong bear like Zombies, mind controlling ant-like Zombies and even a Zombie Chihuahua!

    Meanwhile, in Premium Economy, two well known Australian female celebrities have arrived on the plane after eating gummies in the lounge. They are oblivious to the entire zombie attack going on around them and end up having a fever dream about Australia’s most iconic multi-coloured children’s band. Afraid of the outbreak unfolding, Australia’s sweetheart, John Jarrat hides in the economy class toilet hoping to survive the massacre.

    Over 200 people jetting their way to LA have no idea that, on the ground, two Generals are arguing as to whether Vanilla Ice is capable of saving the day. If not, Commander Chuck Norris loses out and the plane will be blown out of the sky.

    Zombie Plane is a high-octane undead action-mashup of laughs and screams in equal measure.

Cast:

VANILLA ICE - Vanilla Ice

SOPHIE MONK - Sophie Monk

CHUCK NORRIS - Commander Chuck Norris

BOB GELDOF - Mort Pudlin

AMY SHARK - Amy Shark

NATALIE BASSINGTHWAIGHTE - Natalie Bassingthwaighte

ANN TRUONG - Dr. Fan

TERESSA LIANE - Tonya

DAN EWING - Davies

CHRISTINE MILO - Ying

ELLIE GONSALVES Tiffany

JOHN JARRATT - John Jarratt

JOEY VIEIRA - Samson

JOHNNY HUANG - Captain Chen

MATT O’KINE - Waiter

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Year of Production : 2023 - 2024

Release Date : 2025

Running Time : approximately 85m

Country of Origin : Australia

BTS Video : Teaser (password required)

Classification : TBA

Genre: Action, Comedy

Director’s Statement

‘Zombie Plane’ is one hell of a flight! With its striking colour pallet and clean, polished aesthetic it won’t look like any Zombie film you’ve ever seen before! We’ll craft a perfect mix of comedy and horror - a true homage to the zombie genre, with edge of seat scares, action and non-stop laughs that will take our audience on a cinematic rollercoaster from the moment we take off.

As filmmakers, it is our duty to let the world know the truth - in 1989, Vanilla Ice’s family was killed by Zombies! Ever since, Ice has been fighting to keep us all safe. Vanilla Ice is a pop culture icon and as life-long fans, we’re pumped to manifest his massive nostalgic appeal and persona into a contemporary "cool as ice” action Hero.

Just like the plot - he can’t do it alone - so with a talented and diverse support cast, we’ll craft a modern day “buddy film” that showcases our characters journey, whist trying to stay alive and save the day, amidst the blood splattering carnage. Tonally, let’s play to the amazing tongue-in-cheek setup of Vanilla Ice playing himself - as an undercover CIA Zombie killing agent, all the while keeping our film’s reality grounded and believable. We want to be invested in our hero’s journey and their survival.

The stakes and peril need to feel real. The script plays to our Directorial strengths of comedic performance, visual spectacle and premium VFX. Combining comedy and heart of “Shaun of the Dead” with the suspense and horror of "World War Z” and the look and feel of “The Barbie Movie”, we’ll craft memorable, iconic scenes, that will become part of Zombie genre folklore.

By Lav and Mike

Directors

About the Directors

Lav Bodnaruk and Mike Mier are an award winning co-directing duo renowned for crafting dynamic performance based storytelling, rich in comedy and heart. The multi-skilled Directors are known for their unique approach to filmmaking, with Lav helming the role of cinematographer and the duo also deft in supervising and creating complex, high-end Visual Effects.

Their love for the technical craft of film making and desire to continually innovate the boundaries of technology led Lav and Mike to establish their own boutique post production house in 2011 - “The Chop Shop”, with which they have worked with and delivered high end feature film and TV series to Disney, Paramount +, Universal, Amazon Prime, Discovery ect.

About the Writer

William Strong is the pen name of Bill Hargenrader, an award winning, USA Today Best-Selling author, screenwriter and producer. He writes stories that thrill and inspire (often with a dark or humorous twist), and has written and produced several award-winning indie films, in the horror, comedy, and action genres. He is also a US Army Veteran and a former Fortune 500 cybersecurity professional that leverages his life experiences throughout.

Press

"Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway in Bonnie And Clyde…Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet in Titanic…Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga in A Star Is Born…Redford and Newman in Butch Cassidy And The Sundance Kid…Clint Eastwood and Clyde in Every Which Way But Loose…Hanks and Wilson in Cast Away…Sophie Monk and Vanilla Ice in Zombie Plane.."

FILMINK | Read full article

"When passengers on a jet flying from Sydney to Los Angeles become infected with new strains of zombie viruses, Vanilla Ice and Sophie Monk are forced to team up to contain the contagion before the US Air Force shoots it out of the sky."

VARIETY | Read full article

" Vanilla Ice and Australian TV personality, Sophie Monk star in the homegrown film, teaming up to contain a contagion that breaks out on their flight from Brisbane to LA.  The question is, will they succeed before the US Air Force shoots their plane out of the sky?

The infectious Zombie Plane is sure to thrill fans of the ever-popular zombie genre and is set for release in 2024. "

SCREEN QLD | Read full article

" Currently shooting at  Screen Queensland Studios in Brisbane, ZOMBIE PLANE stars Aussie reality tv royalty Sophie Monk along with popular nineties rapper come COOL AS ICE star Vanilla Ice."

MONSTER FEST | Read full article

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ROCADA
Apr
3
to Jan 31

ROCADA

  • Google Calendar ICS

WRITTEN BY : Ilanthirayanalan Arumugam, Mukund Ramanan & Paul Mahoney
DIRECTED BY : Ilanthirayanalan Arumugam

About the Film

ROCADA is an Australian and American co-production. It is a 116-minute, edge-of-your-seat action thriller feature film set amongst a tropical locale of gangster aggression. Featuring stunning aesthetics and a thrilling visual style reminiscent of Mel Gibson’s Apocalypto, the film offers audiences a high-intensity adrenaline rush of vengeance and betrayal. With a story and style targeting broad-spectrum international appeal across Western and Asian markets, the film embraces themes of trust, loyalty, greed, and cruelty in a fast-paced, guns and gasoline-fuelled world of island mayhem.

The film is an original concept, planned as an Australian official co- production between Australian and international producers. The producers will seek to utilise an attractive resource of cast, stunt actors, crew, and locations from across the world, including the US for production.

Off Australia’s Pacific coast on Quasi Island, Alba waits in limbo, held captive by an unhinged crime boss. Two young villagers, Kona and Ratu, escape a wedding massacre down on the docks as a transport ship makes its way to shore. Alba and the villagers embark on separate paths of vengeance as their situations grow dire, but, in a fight for survival , end up joining forces and the trust in each other is put to the test. As the devastating trauma of her past catches up, Alba rises to the challenge, drawing on new courage to fight for her freedom.

Film Details

Completed : This film is currently in production. More information will be shared about this production as it comes to light.

Theatrical Release : US, UK. Australia, China, Russia, Africa, India, South East Asia and the Middle East in English and other foreign languages.

Running Time : 116m

Country of Origin : Australia

Classification : M (TBC)

Genre : Action

Demographic : All gender, 15+ action fans that are drawn towards a story based on action and action- thriller movies, fast-paced, with high quality stunts and visuals.

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In The Meantime
Dec
5
to Apr 6

In The Meantime

About the Film

Channelling Frances Ha via the French New Wave and shot on an iPhone 13 Pro Max, Nicholas Anthony’s debut feature is a cinema verité trip centred on Max, fast-approaching her thirties, and doing her best to deflect the existential crisis she perpetually runs headfirst into. All the while her life rolls along. Living with her best friend Emma, scrambling to find work, having her writing constantly rebuffed, enduring the success of seemingly everyone around her, and dealing with a cavalcade of often awkward, abrupt and somewhat frustrating social interactions and reconstructed memories that pepper her life. As the year passes by, Max finds it harder and harder to ignore that she’s not at all okay, and the unsettling realisation that her mental state and recognition of time is unravelling.

Cast:

Bronte Charlotte - Max

Domenica Garrett - Emma

Antoinette Tracey - Jordan

Sunanda Sachatrakul - Sumit

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2023

Running Time : 93m

Country of Origin : Australia

Screener Link : Click HERE (password required)

Genre : Comedy & Drama

Festivals & Awards:

Melbourne Queer Film Festival

San Francisco Independent Film Festival

Golden State Film Festival

San Francisco Frozen Film Festival

New Filmmakers NY

Blow-Up Arthouse Film Fest · Chicago - Semi-Finalist

SF3 - Smartphone Film Festival - Finalist

Director’s Statement:

  • happiness and failure, friendship and isolation. It's a story full of characters that we either identify with in so many ways or characters that immediately remind us of friends we know. This is a story that people will feel like is their story.

    A story with a lo-fi aesthetic that's influenced by French New Wave and Italian Neorealism as well as more modern indie films like Frances Ha, Girlfriends, Tangerine, Stranger Than Paradise, Manhattan and Paterson that capture the essence of a time and place.

    Shot in a messy, raw cinema verite style to convey the messiness of time and the uncertainty of existence. Shooting entirely on an iPhone 13 Pro Max. Our aim is to create a story that feels pulled away from contemporary times to feel more like reconstructed memories. Additionally, think of films like Tangerine, Following and Pi in terms of production style and process. A ground level view of life, of a city like Melbourne. Of the stories we capture in between the grand moments.

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Ancestry Road
Dec
5
to Apr 6

Ancestry Road

WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY : Glenn Triggs

About the Film

Ancestry Road - Family is Everything

When Kevin's daughter continually goes missing up the back of their Scottish Farm, he builds a road to make life easier. Yet when deceased family members begin arriving in their cars for a visit, everything changes.

Cast:

Jessica Stanley - Anadele McGavin

Charlotte Gray -Cora McGavin

Bill Munro - Stephen

Seb Muirhead - Kevin McGavin

John Xintavelonis - Roger

Jodie Wolf - Rosie

Full cast and Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2023

Release : 2024

Running Time : 86m

Country of Origin : Australia

Screener Link : Click Here (password required)

Genre : Drama / Supernatural

Director’s Statement

  •  I wrote about 50 pages in a day (which never happens) and felt it was very much a story worth telling. I then spent the following year perfecting this script. ‘Ancestry Road’ is set in Scotland
    and was filmed entirely  in a small town in the middle of Tasmania, Australia. We shot the whole thing in 17 days and managed to pull it off and create something very heartfelt, cinematic and honest.

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Review

“Director Glenn Triggs couples his already high-concept plot with even higher emotional stakes. Sailing past the head-scratching ‘how?’ of his supernatural premise, Triggs’ instead barrels headfirst into the ‘why?’. This singular, emotional focus highlights the heart rendering complexities such a phenomenon would yield. 

Depending on who you ask, it is either the journey itself or the final destination that is important. With its sweeping vistas, and emotionally resonate storytelling, Ancestry Road makes a compelling argument that there isn’t, or ever has been, a separation between the two."

Adam Ross | TRIPLE MMM

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General Hercules
Dec
5
to Apr 6

General Hercules

About the Film

General Hercules

For millennia the remote arid deserts of Western Australia lay undisturbed. On the 14th of June 1893 European prospectors discovered 'The Golden Mile' on what was the traditional lands of the local Indigenous people. In little over a hundred years a natural landscape has transformed into the industrial hellscape of Kalgoorlie-Boulder. As the incumbent Mayor of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, John Bowler, starts his campaign for a second term, independent prospector John 'General Hercules' Katahanas, decides to run against him on a ticket of anti-corruption. What starts out as a quirky David v Goliath political battle, unravels into a portrait of a man, a town and a country, sent mad by the timeless cycles of exploitation, racism and greed.

Film Details

Completed : 2021

Released: 2022

Running Time : 96m

Country of Origin : Australia

Screener Link : Click Here (password required)

Genre : Documentary

Festivals/Awards :

2023 Golden Alexander Nominee: Brodie Poole for General Hercules - Thessaloniki Documentary Film Festival

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Review

“One of a kind, General Hercules heralds the arrival of a grand new talent in the Aussie documentary scene. Welcome Brodie Poole."

Andrew F Peirce - The Curb

Full Review Here

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Same Same But Different
Dec
5
to Apr 6

Same Same But Different

About the Film

No map, no spare tyre and no idea. Cody sets off for an adventure of his lifetime with nothing but words of encouragement from those who did the same trip 50 years earlier.

In 1973, Graham "Skroo" Turner and his mates bought a double-decker bus, sold tickets for a seat for eager travellers and embarked on a journey of a lifetime. Unbeknown to them and their travellers this would be the beginning of something that would shape the future of travel as we know it today. Fast forward 50 years later, and Cody has decided to follow in their footsteps and see what travelling is all about. This documentary follows the excitement, the planning (or lack of), the problems, the laughs and of course the tears of what it means to be on the other side of the world that you've always called home. Cody embodies the Australian attitude as he embarks on a journey to revisit some of the places and people but also capture the essence of what drove these friends to explore the world, connect with one another, meet new people and accidently create a global business.

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2024

Running Time : 76m

Country of Origin : Australia

Screener Link : Click HERE (password required)

Genre : Documentary

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Finding Addison
Dec
5
to Apr 6

Finding Addison

About the Film

Finding Addison

In the vibrant and carefree 90's, amidst the era of colourful scrunchies, patterned dresses, and 5 boom-boxes that blare catchy tunes. Two best friends Isabelle and Lucy are inseparable, they are the epitome of teenage adventure, always sporting friendship bracelets as a token of their unbreakable bond. When Lucy and Isabelle's crushes Steve and John invite the girls to "hang out", things begin to get serious. Delving deeper into newfound friendships and young love, their carefree days of innocent laughter and flirtatious glances become a thing of the past, as their lives take an unexpected turn for the worst. Confused and terrified, the two girls have no choice but to devise a plan to hide the secret that is now growing within. A not-so innocent pregnancy that they fear must be hidden from the judgmental eyes of the world at all costs, and the failed attempts to deal with the situation in ways that only innocent 16-year-old girls would. Fast forward 31 years and their hidden past finally comes out. An innocent baby, now a full-grown woman named Addison, has come to find her birth mother. Finding Addison interweaves the lives and timelines of Isabelle, Lucy, Addison, Lynnie and Jewel in unexpected ways, and as we move from the past to the present, we watch the stories of these women unfold.

Cast:

Jeanette Cronin - Lynnie

Pez Warner - Isabelle

Bonnie Sveen - Jewel

Megan O'Connell - Dianna / Older Isabelle

Francisca Braithwaite - Addison

Aria Hart - Lucy

Nick Bolton - Mr. Stones

Full Cast & Crew

Review

“…it's a suspenseful drama powered by themes of identity, acceptance and forgiveness."

Genevieve Swart | The Illawarra Flame | FULL REVIEW

~

“Finding Addison is about discovering your true self…”

Dov Kornits | FilmInk | FULL REVIEW

Film Details

Completed : July 2023

Running Time : 29m

Country of Origin : Australia

Screener Link : Click HERE (password Required)

Genre : Drama

Festivals/Awards :

2024 AACTA Award Winner

St Kilda Film Festival

Perth Revelation Film Festival

French Academy Of Cinema - Les Nuits En Or

Director’s Statement

  • a naive young girl who winds up pregnant, giving her baby up for adoption, and the journey of discovering you’re adopted and searching for your birth mother. Inspired by true events, the film examines the rolling effect of a long-buried family secret, and how it can make you question everything and everyone you thought you knew. Addison’s discovery of her adoption becomes the drive for an emotional exploration of identity, belonging, and the complexity of untangling one’s roots.

    At its core, Finding Addison is a story about relationships, between friends, family, and the person we see in the mirror. Through each woman’s journey, the film explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the lengths we go to in search of connection and truth. It’s about navigating the tension between loss and reconciliation, between pain and forgiveness, and the power of the human spirit to seek out hope when it is surrounded with uncertainty.

    I wanted to create a film that not only connects with viewers on an emotional level but also invites reflection on our shared human experiences. Whether it's Isabelle's decision to let go, or Addison’s need to uncover her past, these are moments that reflect universal questions of identity and family. My hope is that Finding Addison will resonate with audiences, inspiring them to think about their own lives and the stories that shape who they are.

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Livestream
Dec
5
to Apr 6

Livestream

WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY : Victor Soares

About the Film

Livestream follows social media influencer Mia, who is livestreaming a fun-filled trip to a remote cabin with her friends. What starts as a lighthearted escape into nature soon spirals into a terrifying nightmare as the group becomes hunted by an unknown force. With every moment broadcast live to her followers, Mia must confront the unfolding horror while struggling to keep her audience engagedand herself alive.

Cast:

Sarah Moliski - Mia

Nika Khitrova - Lindsey Chapman

Mao Sun - Joss Myers

Anthony Moore - Anthony Chapman

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2024

Running Time : 91m

Country of Origin : USA

Screener Link : Click HERE (password required)

Genre : Thriller

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A Fistful of Karma
Dec
5
to Apr 6

A Fistful of Karma

About the Film

A Fistful of Karma is an outrageous roller-coaster of a comedy mockumentary set in the world of spiritual seeking and yoga retreats.

Ever wondered how it might feel to drop out for a week in nature, detox, do some yoga and get spiritual? Welcome to Il Santuario, a retreat center nestled in the Tuscan hills. The Retreat center is on its last legs, and the team is falling to pieces. When an inspirational guru, arrives with his entourage of dysfunctional and entitled spiritual casualties, it looks like this is the week that might just save the place from collapse – after all what can possibly go wrong on a vegan yoga retreat?

Cast:

Adrian Bouchet - Val

Stephanie Siadatan - Xena

Victoria Grove - Penny

Oliver Tobias - Malcolm

Tuuli Shipster - Friedl

Julia Bender - Sadie

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2023

Running Time : 97m

Country of Origin : UK

Screener Link : Click HERE (Password Required)

Genre : Comedy, Mockumentary

Festivals/Awards :

An award-winning film, with 13 festival wins to date and counting – including three for Best Comedy, two for Best Narrative Feature, Best Screenplay and Audience Choice.

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The Deserving
Dec
5
to Apr 6

The Deserving

WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY : Koka Singh Arora

About the Film

In The Deserving, a mute and deeply tormented serial killer is haunted by the restless ghosts of his victims, trapped in the walls of his decaying home. On the morning he's set to kill himself he's visited by a sudden walk-in client in need of a photo shoot.

Cast:

Venkat Sai Gunda - Karter

Simone Stadler - Lucy Hill

Kelsey Stalter - Lucy II

Koka Singh Arora - Father (as Sheru Arora)

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2024

Running Time : 75m

Country of Origin : USA

Genre : Thriller, Horror, Psychological

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Festivals & Awards

2024 - Athens International Monthly Art Film Festival - Won, Best Feature Film

2024 Hallucinea Film Festival - Won, Best Horror Film

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What About Sal?
Dec
5
to Apr 6

What About Sal?

WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY : John Jarratt

About the Film

What About Sal?

With his mother dying of lung cancer, Sal, in his 30's and with Down Syndrome, embarks on a journey to find his father - a rock band singer that his mother had a one-night stand with - 30 years ago.

Cast:
Gerard O'Dwyer - Sal

John Jarratt - Tommy

Kaarin Fairfax - Sophie

Lewis Fitz-Gerald - Geoff

Peter Hehir - Dr. O'Hara

Full Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2023

Release : 2024

Running Time : 97m

Country of Origin : Australia

Screener Link : Upon Request

Genre : Drama

Festivals/Awards:

Septimius Awards 2024 - Best Oceanian Actor – John Jarratt – What About Sal

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Review

“Jarratt ensures a silken flow to the condensed storyline. Proof of his eloquent direction and film writing. Tightly edited, he doesn’t miss a heartbeat. “

Justice Action | Read Full Review

~

“Audiences will laugh and cry at what emerges in this small Aussie tear jerker which can be described as a labour of love. The passion of everyone involved in this movie filters through each frame. Jarrett has written a script that consists of just the right amount of emotional intensity. Themes of substance abuse and the inadequate rights given to Down Syndrome people also resonate throughout.”

Mark Morellini | City Hub | Read Full Review

~

“The story of What About Sal? is all things heart-warming, saccharine-sweet, and unapologetically Australian. You can feel the love that was poured into the film and the passion that Jarratt has for the thematic and tonal expressions that follow Sal…

…Unbelievably funny and full of heart, it would be impossible for me not to indulge in absolute admiration for lead actor, Gerard O’Dwyer as Sal. O’Dwyer’s individuality and personality absolutely beam off the screen. Confidently taking centre stage throughout the entire picture, he delivers an excellent performance that is both heart-warming and heart-breaking.

Pace Proctor | Screenaholics | Read Full Review

~

“The acting ability of both John and Gerard was exceptional, as well as the rest of the cast. By the end of the film I don’t think there was a dry eye left in the house as everyone had formed such a bond for each of the characters…

The film is beautifully shot and showcases a lot of the hidden beauty of Sydney, Glebe and the surrounding areas….

If you have the opportunity to support this film I can guarantee you that you will not be disappointed.

Tisharna Eckford | Read Full Review

~

“John Jarratt wears many hats for this film, Actor, Writer, Director and shines in every role.”

Bazza McKenzie | Read Full Review

~

“It is Jarratt's second foray into writing and directing, and his big-hearted compassion for his subject matter shines through in every aspect of this little Aussie gem. His direction coaxes terrific performances out of his actors - Kaarin Fairfax delivers a beautifully modulated performance as Gerard's Mum. She inhabits her character with a lovely natural authenticity and warmth. Her performance is emotionally charged, and each screen moment is imbued with a deep and abiding love for her child.”

Tiff IMDB | Read Full Review

~

“…John Jarratt's contribution to "What About Sal" elevates the film to another level. His talent and dedication are evident in every scene, making his performance a highlight of this compelling movie.”

Simon Maxwell | Read Full Review

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Lover of Men
Dec
5
to Apr 6

Lover of Men

About the Film

Lover of Men examines the intimate life of America’s most consequential president, Abraham Lincoln. As told by preeminent Lincoln scholars, historical recreations and never before seen letters, the film details Lincoln’s romantic relationships with men. Lover of Men widens its lens into the history of human sexual fluidity and focuses on the profound differences between the sexual mores of the nineteenth century and those we hold today.

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Running Time : 102m

Country of Origin : USA

Genre : Documentary

Festivals/Awards :

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Freelance
Dec
5
to Apr 6

Freelance

About the Film

Katie, a freelance video editor in desperate need of work, receives a high-paying offer to edit a cryptic and bizarre video from an anonymous employer. Strapped for cash and facing eviction, Katie eagerly accepts the gig. The video depicts people being tortured and even killed on camera — surely just elaborately staged fiction. But when the first job leads to even more lucrative work, and more disturbingly realistic snuff films, Katie’s life begins to crumble. Strange figures in her apartment, horrific nightmares keeping her awake, and a mysterious illness plaguing her cat. It’s only when Katie decides to finally quit the job that she learns just how cruel her anonymous employer really is, and to what bloody lengths she herself will go to get out of her contract.

Cast:

Katie - Nicole Pastor

Kevin - Jordan Fraser-Trumble

Guy - Stephen Degenaro

Tommy - Jasper Bagg

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2023

Running Time : 110m

Country of Origin : Australia

Screener Link : Click HERE (password required)

Genre : Thriller

Festivals/Awards : Official selection for Monster Fest 2024

Director’s Statment

  • Freelance would be my next film. The script possessed the qualities of a pure 90's style thriller, a genre and nuance that is less frequently seen in recent years. As a freelance editor myself, I related to Katie and her struggles and was confident in bringing her plight to the screen. The film offered me the chance to continue my exploration within the thriller genre, something I commenced with my debut feature RAGE in 2021, and to put into practice the lessons learnt from that experience. With the story being quite contained with minimal characters, locations, intimate set pieces and a story based in reality, I knew that the producers and I could deliver high production values with minimal cost across a 22 day shoot. As an ardent admirer of David Fincher, the cast and crew were aware very early on about the desired mood, feel and tone for the film. This is reflected in every aspect of the film from the wardrobe design to negative fill lighting, the minimalist electronic drones in the music to the title sequence that takes you inside the editing program. Whilst navigating budget and time restraints brought its own challenges, it also gave me the opportunity to problem solve in a creative way. Freelance for me was a chance to make a feature that is accessible to a wider audience whilst at the same time, exploring the genre further.

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He Sees You When You're Sleeping
Dec
5
to Apr 6

He Sees You When You're Sleeping

About the Film

A young man's Christmas homecoming turns into a nightmare as a killer in a Santa suit gruesomely picks off his estranged, wealthy family for their fortune.

Cast:

Caroline Williams - Aunt Marion

Lauren-Marie Taylor - Sue-Ellen Galveston

Tom Malloy - Deputy Warren Kessler

Nicholas Vince - Dr. Landry

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2024

Country of Origin : USA

Genre : Horror

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Cooked
Dec
5
to Apr 6

Cooked

WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY:

Cameron Utiger

About the Film

After finishing high school, Ethan and his best mates commemorate their final night out together. As the night unfolds, the boy's friendship is tested as inevitably, nothing goes to plan.

Cast:

Baylee Arndt - Eli

Zane Menegazzo - Ethan

Jarrod Gildea - Oli

Sam Folden - Xav
Emma Monk
- Exam Supervisor

Arielle Cartwright - Jasmine

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2024

Running Time : 78m

Country of Origin : Australia

Screener Link : Click HERE (Password Required)

Genre : Drama & Comedy

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Spithood
Dec
5
to Apr 6

Spithood

WRITTEN BY : Travis Akbar, Thibul Nettle & Tim Pine
DIRECTED BY : Tim Pine

About the Film

A mental health team is faced with a challenging situation when a troubled employee's past comes back to haunt them. Things take a dangerous turn when a violent patient manages to escape confinement and goes on a determined rampage.

Cast:

Thibul Nettle - Mason

Claudia Bonifazio - Ashley

Natasha Wanganeen - Mel

Nick Buckland - Jeeves

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2024

Running Time : 58m

Country of Origin : Australia

Screener Link : Click HERE (Password Required)

Genre : Horror/Thriller

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Grace Point
Dec
4
to Apr 4

Grace Point

Grace Point

WRITTEN BY :
Rory Karpf & Paul Russell Smith
DIRECTED BY : Rory Karpf

About the Film

A young man on his way to a remote drug rehab, finds himself in a strange town being chased by the locals, as well as his own personal demons.

Cast:

John Owen Lowe - Brandon Hayes

Harlan Drum - Sophie

Andrew McCarthy - Winston Hayes

Colin Norris - Young Brandon

Aljamain Sterling - Robby

Jennifer Trudrung - Lorraine

Sean Carrigan - Luther Stone

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2023

Release: 2025

Running Time : 84m

Country of Origin : USA

Genre : Drama, Thriller

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Werewolf Game
Dec
4
to Apr 4

Werewolf Game

About the Film

Werewolf Game

Adapted from the adult party game of social deduction, created by Dimitry Davidoff in 1986, Werewolf Game is a death-game, horror mystery film. Twelve kidnapped strangers must play a game where they vote on who amongst them to murder. At night, the "werewolves" hidden among them come out to brutally kill one of the 12 "villagers" in return. The days repeat until one winning group remains.

Cast:

Tony Todd - The Judge
Tyler Gattoni - The Captain

Lydia Hearst - Monika

Bai Ling - Demi
Robert Picardo - Bill

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2023

Running Time : 96m

Country of Origin : USA

Genre : Horror

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The Aegean
Dec
4
to Apr 2

The Aegean

WRITTEN BY : Jacob Richardson
DIRECTED BY : Jacob Richardson

About the Film

The Aegean

In a world that has started to forget him, Hector, a widowed fisherman, feels the weight of his solitude. Everything changes when he encounters Theodore, a teenager desperately seeking a saviour to rescue him from a dire situation. United by their shared struggles, they embark on a journey across the enchanting Aegean Sea, where amidst the azure waters, they discover a newfound purpose and a reason to carry on.

Cast:

Costas Mandylor - Hector

Victoria Ramos - Government Worker

Nikolas Chalkiadakis - Young Hector

Konstantinos Kladis - Fishmonger

Eleni McDonald - Young Helena

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : April 16, 2024

Running Time : 102m

Country of Origin : Australia

Screener Link : Click Here (Password Required)

Genre : Drama

Directors Statement

When I decided to tackle this film, I was encouraged by many to shoot it at home in Australia. But my debut feature, “The Aegean”, lives and breathes on a small island called Kythira, off the Aegean and Ionian Seas. Like the great renaissance sculptors of old who believed that their artwork lay within a specific block of marble and who spent years searching for it, “The Aegean” lay on this tiny little Greek island, and our job was to go there and cut away the excess to reveal the story beneath.

The Aegean tells a deeply personal story for me. Under the sweeping landscape, the Greek influence, and the refugee crisis that is the background to the film, sits my own simple story; that of a boy from Brisbane trying to bring his grandfather back from the abyss. 

Working with cinematographer Oliver Hay, we were able to infuse a wonderful dreamlike quality and an old-world stillness to the island. I wanted it to feel like that part of The Godfather where Sonny goes back to Italy - out of time, frozen, like Hector.

Ultimately, independent filmmaking is always a question of cost and compromise, but with “The Aegean”, what I’m most proud of is that we never let our ambition be muted by our means. We swung for the fences with the biggest, boldest movie we could. My hope is that you, too, get to experience the magic and wonder of this place, alongside the hope and joy of the story.

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Amo-te Imenso
Dec
4
to Apr 2

Amo-te Imenso

WRITTEN BY :
Juliana Calejan & Hermano Moreira
DIRECTED BY :
Hermano Moreira

About the Film

Set in the beautiful and romantic city of Lisbon, the love story between a shy Brazilian man and a fearless Portuguese woman is haunted by stories from their past.

Cast:

Guilherme Gorski - Fábio

Filipa Pinto - Maria

Julia Palha - Tessa

Rafael Canedo - Celsinho

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : March 30, 2023

Running Time : 87m

Country of Origin : Portugal, Brazil

Screener Link : Click HERE (Password Required)

Language: Portuguese

Genre : Comedy, Drama, Romance

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Carnal Vessels
Dec
4
to Apr 2

Carnal Vessels

Carnal Vessels

WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY : Angus Kirby

About the Film

Two friends - the chronically unemployed, aimless Liv and cemetery groundskeeper Alex - find themselves in an in-between, undefined space when they start sleeping together. But when they fall in love, they swap bodies, and soon find out more than they should about each other. Their budding relationship in chaos, Alex attempts to sabotage things with the other guy he finds out Liv is seeing, only to find that he’s lovely, and begins to question his own sexuality. Liv, meanwhile, horrified at the idea of being Alex and having to work, visits her wealthy mum and ends up realising her own independence. But just as things seem to be working out, external forces threaten Liv and Alex's budding relationship in macabre ways they cannot expect.

Cast:

Daniel Simpson - Alex Phipps / Olivia Castlethwaite

Arnijka Larcombe-Weate - Olivia Castlethwaite / Alex Phipps

Brent Dunner - Gary

Dylan Stumer - James

Astrid Wells - Susan Castlethwaite

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2024

Running Time : 79m

Country of Origin : Australia

Screener Link : Click HERE (Password Required)

Genre : Romance, Comedy

Director’s Statement

The time spent making Carnal Vessels has been the most joyful of my life. Living in

this movie with the cast and crew and the people in my life was a dream. I hope this

lightness is reflected in the finished product.

I want to take you somewhere you haven’t been before - and it’s going to be fun.

- Angus Kirby

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As Certain as Death
Dec
4
to Apr 2

As Certain as Death

WRITTEN BY :
Hutch Dano
DIRECTED BY :
Hutch Dano

About the Film

As Certain As Death

A camping trip and forced intervention becomes a battle for survival, as five friends must fight not only their own demons but an evil in the woods.

Cast:

Lindsey Shaw - Dayna

Hutch Dano - Richard
David Lambert
- David

Cortney Palm - Kayla

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2021

Release : 2023

Running Time : 79m

Screener: Upon Request

Country of Origin : USA

Genre : Horror

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Blue Hour: The Disappearance of Nick Brandreth
Dec
4
to Apr 2

Blue Hour: The Disappearance of Nick Brandreth

About the Film

Blue Hour: The Disappearance of Nick Brandreth

Olivia Brandreth was nine years old when her father disappeared. Twenty five years later, she has returned to her childhood home to finally get closure in an unrelenting attempt to set the record straight.

Cast:

Morgan DeTogne - Olivia Brandreth

Michael Kowalski - Chris Donovan

Mike Headford - Luke D'Antonio

Nick Brandreth - Nick Brandreth

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Release : 2023

Running Time : 100m

Screener: Upon Request

Country of Origin : USA

Genre : Drama, Horror, Sci-Fi

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Sticks & Stones
Dec
4
to Apr 2

Sticks & Stones

About the Film

Sticks & Stones

For three junior high school friends, growing up takes a dangerous turn when the local bully targets them with his aggression. With no one to turn to but each other, they muster the courage to take a shot at settling the score.

Cast:

Justin Isfeld - Joey

Max Goldblatt - Book

Chauncey Leopardi - Mouth

Jordan Brower - Hayes

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Release : September 1996

Running Time : 95m

Country of Origin : USA

Screener Link : Upon Request

Genre : Drama, Sport

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The Unraveling
Dec
4
to Apr 2

The Unraveling

About the Film

The Unraveling

After suffering a traumatic brain injury, a woman is haunted by a gruesome presence and the suspicion that her husband has been replaced by an impostor.

Cast:

Ali Alsaleh - Kevin

Sam Brooks - Grayson

Sarah Zanotti - Mary

Heather Lannan - Elise

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : July 2022

Release : September 2023

Running Time : 97m

Country of Origin : USA

Screener Link : Click HERE (Password Required)

Genre : Thriller

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Reviews

Garrett Thierry | Read Full Review

In "The Unraveling," the interplay between gaslighting, the supernatural, and suspense creates a chilling and thought-provoking experience for viewers. The film's deliberate ambiguity and use of unanswered questions contribute to its overall sense of unease and keep audiences engaged. As a significant addition to the realm of suspenseful thriller films, "The Unraveling" stands out for its unique blend of horror and psychological thrills and is a must-watch for fans of the genre. Its themes of gaslighting, the supernatural, and psychological manipulation are explored in a way that is both unsettling and captivating.

Bobby LePire - FilmThreat | Read Full Review

The Unraveling is an entertaining, though intense ride. The directing is strong, and the cinematography is atmospheric. The cast, led by a game Zanotti, excellently jumps through the twists and turns of the story. Just know that the ending will surprise all watching quite a bit.

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Love Different
Dec
4
to Apr 2

Love Different

WRITTEN BY :
Anthony Hackett
DIRECTED BY :
Anthony Hackett

About the Film

Love Different

Lindsay Walker, a Caucasian woman who grew up in a small, all-Caucasian town, gets a job at an African-American consulting firm and experiences a complete culture shock. Neque Campbell, an African-American co-worker, Neque Campbell, is assigned the task of acquainting Lindsay with the African-American culture. Through their hilarious and eye-opening journey together they both come to understand more than they expected.

Cast:

Jenn Gotzon - Lindsay Walker

Anthony Hackett - Neque Campbell

Thomas Mikal Ford - Mr. Chamberlain

Kevin Fredericks - Professor Black

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Running Time : 94m

Country of Origin : USA

Screener Link : Upon Request

Genre : Comedy, Faith

Festivals/Awards :

Won - 2016 Charlotte Black Film Festival - Best Feature Film

Won - 2016 International Christian Film Festival - Audience Choice

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Double or Nothing
Dec
4
to Apr 2

Double or Nothing

About the Film

Double or Nothing

Two cousins embark on a high-energy race against the clock to find $50k when the mob discover one of them has been skimming from their Gold Coast workshop.

Cast:

Vince Colosimo - Deacon

John Jarratt - Col

Steve Mouzakis - Peter

Rowan Howard - Nick

Andrew Ian Pope - Turbo

Erin Connor - Erin

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2024

Year of Production: 2023

Running Time : 97m

Classification: Pending

Country of Origin : AUS

Full Trailer: CLICK HERE (password required)

Screener Link : CLICK HERE (password required)

Genre : Action, Comedy

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Directors Statement

Our aim with this film was to give the audience a fun ride where luck, karma, loyalty and revenge collide in a no holds barred journey that proves good intentions are not a straight line, but a forest. John Jarratt as the father figure of two ex-cons going straight, a high-energy race against the clock to find $50k for dangerous people (VINCE COLOSIMO) and comedic and seedy Gold Coast characters painted against beautiful locations is the film’s driving force. Being lucky enough to have AACTA nominated actor Robert Rabiah, and Steve Mouzakis who have both forged careers as some of Australia’s most respected actors was a privilege.

Reviews

“The narrative channels a vibe reminiscent of 90’s classics, like ‘Two Hands’ and ‘The Big Lebowski’.” according to Dru.

With an extensive backdrop of locations in and around Ipswich and the Gold Coast, the film subtly but distinctly nods to the beauty and talent of the iconic region.

The character of the local area and its community reflects through the entire film. It’s been an honour to engage with so many local businesses and talents from Southeast Queensland over the duration of this project.”

Local Ipswich News | Read full review

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Sons of Summer
Dec
4
to Apr 2

Sons of Summer

About the Film

Sons of Summer

Four surfing sons plan a tribute 'surfari' to a small beach town for one of their fathers murdered three decades earlier. But some road trips are to die for.

Cast:

Isabel Lucas - Katie

Temuera Morrison - Frank

Joe Davidson - Sean

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2023

Running Time : 88m

Country of Origin : Australia

Screener Link : Click Here (Password Required)

Classification : MA15+

Genre : Action, Crime

Festivals: CineFestOz 2023 - Official Selection

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Thou Shalt Kill
Dec
4
to Apr 4

Thou Shalt Kill

About the Film

Thou Shalt Kill

A distraught ex-alcoholic mother who has nothing left to fear in life is confronted one night in her car by a crazed serial killer who can only kill those who fear him.

Cast:

Augie Duke

Vince Lozano

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2024

Running Time : 86m

Country of Origin : USA

Genre : Thriller

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Sex Positive
Dec
3
to Apr 3

Sex Positive

WRITTEN BY : Peter Woodward
DIRECTED BY : Peter Woodward

About the Film

Sex Positive

Virginia tumbles into a wild and thrilling new world of sexual liberation when she moves in with a group of polyamorous party animals, including the charming but commitment-phobic Jake.

Cast:

Katherine Ellis - Virginia

Aaron Long - Jake

Ashton Leigh - Truly Happygirl

Belle Eclair - Cindy

Full Cast and Crew

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Film Details

Completed : 2024

Theatrical Release: 2024

Running Time : 85m

Screener: Upon Request

Country of Origin : USA

Genre : Comedy, LGBTQ+, Romance

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The Christmas Master Piece
Dec
3
to Apr 1

The Christmas Master Piece

About the Film

The Christmas Masterpiece

This is a beautiful family-friendly, original-music-filled story of a precocious 14-year-old Emma and her 80-pound Goldendoodle Rocky. Emma has lost her mother and must now live with unfamiliar grandparents in another town, Lakeside. Her artistic flair with painting, and life, lead her through heartache and eventually guide her to meet new people and help energize the town of Lakeside for the holiday season. The Christmas spirit, and the town holiday art show, unite everyone toward a common goal and allow Emma and her friends to follow their dreams.

Cast:

Brooke Chamberlin - Emma Evans

Dain Paige - Braxton Tate

Kelly Amshoff - Jules Evans

Michael Comstock - Marcus Evans

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Completed : 2020

Release : 2020

Running Time : 98m

Country of Origin : USA

Screener Link : Upon Request

Genre : Family, Faith

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#ChadGetstheAxe
Dec
3
to Apr 1

#ChadGetstheAxe

WRITTEN BY :
Travis Bible & Kemerton Hargrove
DIRECTED BY :
Travis Bible

About the Film

#ChadGetsTheAxe

Four social media influencers live stream their trip to Devil's Manor, former home to a satanic cult.

Cast:

Spencer Harrison Levin - Chad

Michael Bonini - Steve

Taneisha Figueroa - Jennifer

Cameron Vitosh - Spencer

All Cast & Crew

Film Details

Release : 2022

Running Time : 83m

Screener: Upon Request

Country of Origin : USA

Genre : Horror

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