Toni Collette’s Directorial Debut Among 75 Screen Australia Projects

The Australian film and television industry has received a substantial boost following the announcement from Screen Australia regarding its latest funding round. A total of 75 projects have been selected to share in over AUD 16.9 million in production and development financing. This investment underscores the agency's commitment to fostering local talent and ensuring that Australian stories continue to resonate with both domestic and international audiences.

One of the most anticipated projects is the feature directorial debut of acclaimed actress Toni Collette. Titled 'The Best Of,' the film is an adaptation of Graeme Simsion’s bestselling novel. The narrative explores the complex dynamics between two former lovers who reunite after decades apart, navigating the messy and emotional consequences of rekindled feelings. Collette, who has earned numerous accolades including Emmy and Golden Globe awards, is producing the project alongside Christopher Simon. The film has secured major production investment from Screen Australia in association with Screen NSW, with Kismet managing local distribution and Cornerstone handling international sales.

Beyond Collette’s debut, the funding round supports a variety of ambitious projects. Brouhaha Entertainment, known for the success of 'Boy Swallows Universe,' is developing 'The Dark Lake.' This series is based on Sarah Bailey’s award-winning novel and features Phoebe Tonkin as a detective investigating a murder in a rural town. The investigation forces the protagonist to confront her own buried secrets. The project is backed by Screenwest and Screen NSW, with a strong creative team including producers Troy Lum and Andrew Mason.

Another notable feature is 'Bull,' directed by Jeffrey Walker. Based on a true story, the film follows a smooth-talking prisoner who joins a debating team within one of Tasmania’s most rigorous correctional facilities. The story focuses on his attempt to turn his life around and make his mother proud. The cast features notable names such as Richard Roxburgh, Robyn Malcolm, and Teresa Palmer. The production is supported by Screen Queensland, with distribution plans already in place.

Comedy and social commentary are also represented in the funding round. The comedy group Sooshi Mango is working on an untitled feature debut about three Italian immigrants who rally their neighborhood to protect a local social club from a mysterious wellness center. Directed by Nick Kozakis, the film highlights the multicultural fabric of Australian society. Additionally, Rodd Rathjen is directing 'No Friend But the Mountains,' an adaptation of Behrouz Boochani’s memoir, which chronicles the harrowing experience of a Kurdish journalist fleeing persecution.

Louise Gough, the director of narrative content at Screen Australia, emphasized the importance of these projects. She noted that local stories remain deeply significant to Australians and that the funding supports a mix of emerging creatives and established voices. The selection process reflects a desire for authenticity and ambition, ensuring that the Australian screen industry remains a vibrant and competitive force on the global stage. By providing the necessary resources, Screen Australia continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the nation's cultural landscape.