Australia’s Ludo Studio is expanding its live-action slate with “Allen,” now shooting in Queensland for Netflix as the company’s first locally-produced feature film.
The Emmy and BAFTA-winning Brisbane-based studio behind global phenomenon “Bluey” has begun principal photography on the family film, adding to its growing live-action portfolio. While best known for its animated content, the studio has been strategically diversifying its output in recent years.
“Allen” reunites creator Daley Pearson with Netflix after his recent limited series “Apple Cider Vinegar.” Pearson, who previously worked on horror hit “Talk to Me” and animated series “The Strange Chores,” is co-directing with Jeffrey Walker (“The Artful Dodger”). The duo is working from a script by Pearson and Sophie Miller, who collaborated on Ludo’s recent crime drama “Thou Shalt Not Steal.”
Set against Queensland’s coastal backdrop, the film explores themes of childhood friendship and nostalgia — territory that should feel familiar to the studio that has made “Bluey” a global juggernaut for families worldwide.
“We’re creating ‘Allen’ for families to watch together,” Pearson said, describing the project as “a story about love, family, and all those big and small moments from childhood that end up shaping who we are when we grow up.”
The production represents a homecoming for Pearson, who is filming in the coastal town where he grew up. Principal photography is taking place at Screen Queensland Studios in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast, with backing from the Queensland Government’s production incentives.
Arts Minister John-Paul Langbroek praised Ludo as “a Queensland entrepreneurial success story,” noting the David Crisafulli government’s support for the studio’s first locally-made live-action feature.
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Netflix’s Minyoung Kim, VP of content for APAC, highlighted Ludo’s storytelling prowess, calling the team “among Australia’s most exceptional storytellers” known for their “characteristic relatability and wit.”
The film joins Netflix’s expanding Australian slate, which includes recent releases “The Survivors,” “Apple Cider Vinegar,” “Territory” and “Boy Swallows Universe.” The streamer has “Son of a Donkey,” “Heartbreak High” Season 3 and “My Brilliant Career” in the pipeline.
Daley Pearson and Charlie Aspinwall executive produce for Ludo Studio alongside Sophie Miller. Sam Moor and Ross Allsop produce, with Lauren Brown co-producing.
From Variety US