The local filmmaking team behind the award winning new Australian film Broke is set to announce their next project – Book Week – at Scenic World on Saturday, August 6.
Book Week, a comedy/drama to be produced entirely in the Blue Mountains, will kick start its crowd funding campaign on the night in conjunction with a special screening of Broke with the cast and crew of both films in attendance.
Book Week will feature some of Australia’s best acting talent including Brendan Cowell (Beneath Hill 60, The Slap), Susan Prior (Animal Kingdom, The Rover), Steve Bastoni (The Water Diviner), Tiriel Mora (The Castle), Pippa Grandison (Georgie Girl), Chris Taylor (The Chaser) as well as newcomers Airlie Dodds and Rose Riley.
Following the global success of Broke, writer/director Heath Davis says his last film’s focus on problem gambling made a huge impact within the community and he hopes to create similar awareness with Book Week, which carries a social message of its own.
“We are really encouraging kids and adults to switch off their iPhones and pick up a book or pen. As a local teacher I’m very passionate about promoting literacy,” Davis says.
“Everywhere you go people are using hand held devices, usually to play games or keep themselves up to date on social media. We really want to drive people back into reading and writing, using their imaginations, opening their minds and experiencing life not just via Facebook.”
Filming solely within the Blue Mountains, the filmmakers are inviting local creatives, businesses and residents to share in the journey.
“Filmmaking is all about collaboration and we are really adamant about including the townsfolk,” says producer James Nightingale. “It’s more than making a film for ourselves, we want to build a collective project and create something the entire community can be proud and a part of.”
The Scenic World event will be held on Saturday, August 6 from 6pm. It will include a screening of Broke, Q & A with cast and crew as well as an opportunity for locals to express their interest. Tickets are just $20 and can be booked at the Moshtix link http://www.moshtix.com.au/v2/event/broke/88004.
For more information contact Heath Davis on heathy78@yahoo.com.au or 0431 946 687 or James Nightingale on 0423 247 362 or jamesnightingale@live.com.au.
