AUDREY, an Australian dark comedy directed by Natalie Bailey (The Thick Of It, Run) and starring Jackie Van Beek (What We Do in the Shadows), Jeremy Lindsay-Taylor (The Dry 2), Josephine Blazier (True History of the Kelly Gang), and Hannah Diviney (Latecomers).
The feature film, which premiered at SXSW and has since screened at LFF and Melbourne Film Festival, will screen at Palm Springs Film Festival this week on January 4th, 5th, and 6th, followed by Q&A with Natalie Bailey, ahead of its March North American general release.
Synopsis:
Self-appointed Mother of the Year, Ronnie has given her daughter Audrey everything, so when Audrey selfishly falls into a coma, Ronnie has no choice but to keep their dreams alive by assuming her identity.
REVIEW
The Australian Dark Comedy "AUDREY" defies logic - but makes sense. Exaggerated discomfort, and social taboos, are boldly played for laughs while exploring the deeper, risky emotions of family and motherhood. This is the debut feature film for writer Lou Sanz who tackles extreme situations with bold confidence. Together with director Natalie Bailey they push boundaries by confronting the absurd with what is socially acceptable, family dysfunction, and personal flaws. You won't forget these memorable and controversial characters.
The main players are the Lipsick family. Jackie Van Beek plays Ronnie, the Mom trying to cope with the struggles and expectations when she learns her talented and famous actress daughter is in a coma and may never wake up. To keep the dream alive, Ronnie decides to pretend to be her daughter. She dresses and behaves like a teenage girl, takes acting classes, and leaves her husband, skillfully played by Jeremy Lindsay Taylor, in an emotional and unforgettable sexual wonderland. It's hysterical.
Josephine Blazier plays Audrey, who, during a dramatic existential crisis, threatens to jump off the roof, but unforeseen circumstances make a bad situation worse. Audrey is larger than life and pushes boundaries while creating a dynamic satire for exploring her family and boyfriend's dark desires and human flaws. Hannah Diviney is the older sister who may be disabled but it does not hold her back from reveling in the chaos. Aston Aaron Fa'aoso, shines as Audrey's boyfriend.
A shout-out to the aesthetic and captivating camera work by Simon Dzoline ACS. Much of the filming uses in-your-face imagery with rapidly changing scenes that keep a fast pace and intrigue. The original Music by Alex Cameron is effective and unique.
Thank you, I enjoyed the film immensely!
Sunrise Films has acquired U.S. rights to AUDREY and will soon announce the March 2025 general release. Writen by Lou Sanz.
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