The trailer for Australian festive film “Christmess” is here.
Written and directed by Heath Davis, “Christmess” marks the big screen debut of acclaimed alternative rock band Middle Kids’ Hannah Joy, while the film also stars Steve Le Marquand (“Last Train to Freo”) and Darren Gilshenan (“No Activity”).
Le Marquand plays the role of a once famous actor who has been reduced by alcohol addiction to performing as Santa Claus in a mall. After accidentally meeting his estranged daughter (Nicole Pastor), he seeks help from his sponsor (Gilshenan) and a sharp-tongued musician in recovery (Joy) in order to win his daughter’s forgiveness in time for the festive season.
“Christmess” is produced by Daniel Fenech, Cindy Pritchard and Matthew McCracken. It is financed through crowd funding and the support of unnamed partners. Distribution will be handled by Bonsai Films.
Production started on the light-hearted drama in Greater Sydney earlier this year. Le Marquand has starred in three of Davis’ previous films “Book Week”, “Broke”, and “Locusts”. In addition to acting, Joy contributes original music to the film and also covers a famous Christmas song.
The trailer for “Christmess” is out now and can be watched below. Following its world premiere at the prestigious Austin Film Festival later this month, the film will then debut in select cinemas across Australia on November 30th.
According to Davis, his film depicts a festive experience not often seen in cinema. “I love Christmas movies, but I’ve never really seen a Christmas movie that depicts the reality of what the holiday season is for many of us – crippling stress, anxiety, malaise and economic struggle, all too often underpinned by alcohol abuse,” he said earlier this year.
“At its core, “Christmess” is a celebration of the human spirit, the kindness of strangers and the healing power of forgiveness.”