Production has begun on Heath Davis' newest feature film, Christmess, underway in Campbelltown in Greater Western Sydney. The film is written and directed by Davis, and features stars Steve Le Marquand, Darren Gilshenan and musician, vocalist Hannah Joy of the alternative rock band Middle Kids, making her feature film debut.
The Christmas film sees Chris Flit (played by Le Marquand) take a job as a Santa Claus where he unexpectedly encournters his long-estranged daughter (Nicole Pastor) and grandson. With the love and support of young, sharp tongued musician Joy (Hannah Joy), Flit attempts to stay sober to win his daughter's forgiveness.
In an exclusive comment to The Music, Davis' describes the ethos of the film, "Christmess is what I like to call a REAL Christmas movie. It’s unsentimental and unconventional for the genre. It’s a raw Christmas story that everyone can actually identify with.
"It captures the stress, anxiety, loneliness, heartbreak and oppressive Aussie heat the time brings out but it’s also hopeful, honest and very funny. It’s also a commentary on alcoholism as well as the notion of the modern family."
He also emphasises the amazing work of Joy on the set in her debut on the big screen stating, "Hannah is a complete delight. Her dedication, hard work and courage blew me away. She’s just a natural performer and soulful artist.
"She really steals the show and is going to set tongues wagging and not just because of the songs she performs either. She’s the best creative risk I’ve ever taken. I want to write something again for her. Life is that much better with Hannah in it."
