IF Paul Mercurio’s latest big screen movie receives rave reviews, then the Muswellbrook Shire can take some credit for its success.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
A few talented Hunter Valley filmmakers were fortunate enough to partake in the production of A Silent Agreement last year, when parts for the new coming-of-age drama were shot at the Muswellbrook Cinema, with local extras filling the auditorium for a key scene.
Assistant director Ron Healey said the movie boasted a number of strong connections to the area.
“Both production and crew members were involved, among them brilliant youngster Lleyton Hails, from Scone,” he told the Chronicle.
“He lent a hand as second assistant director.
“In 2016, before embarking on A Silent Agreement, writer/director Davo Hardy screened one of his earlier offerings, Hunting for Shadows, at the Blue Heeler Film Festival in Denman.
“This was the young filmmaker’s first project with Mercurio and its triumph encouraged the pair to collaborate again on a bigger assignment.
“Blue Heeler Film Festival entrants Samantha Dennis-Serhan and Josephine McKrell (with their short film Little Diamonds) and previous event winner Lleyton [Hails] attended Hardy’s two-day filmmaking seminar at the Muswellbrook Library and, within a year, found themselves on the set of his latest production.”
Now that A Silent Agreement, itself, is causing a sensation in a handful of international film festivals, including a top spot at the Los Angeles Cinefest, this outstanding independent cinema experience aims to encourage young filmmakers to maintain a sense of integrity for their work.
“They need to keep on guard against the industry predators, who pose as mentors and gradually take control of a production to suit their own ambitions,” Mr Healey said.
“As Australia’s first feature movie to place the deaf community, sign language and a queer romance at the forefront of the drama, A Silent Agreement is already making history with its themes of overcoming disability, redemption following betrayal and the strength of the human spirit.
“And, the young filmmakers of the Upper Hunter were there to see it unfold.”
Following the festivals, A Silent Agreement is expected to be globally available in November 2018.
For further details, check out the official Facebook page.
