The Australian film industry is set to welcome a new feature film, Song Of Songs, which will showcase the talents of Succession actor Ashley Zukerman. Directed by Anita Lester, this identity drama is funded by Screen Australia and will be executive produced by acclaimed director Shekhar Kapur. The film, which is being sold by LevelK, is part of a larger initiative to support Jewish Australian stories on the big screen.
Producer Jamie Bialkower of Jump Street Films has launched a fund to specifically back Jewish Australian features. This fund aims to promote authentic and visible Jewish narratives in Australian cinema and is a response to the lack of support and representation Jewish artists have traditionally received. With financial terms undisclosed, this initiative is a crucial step towards countering antisemitism through storytelling. Bialkower is committed to supporting both emerging and established creators, with plans for the fund to grow in the future.
Jump Street Films, in collaboration with Screen Australia and other production partners, is dedicated to providing opportunities for underrepresented voices in the industry. The company has a track record of supporting female directors and is actively working on projects with a diverse range of filmmakers, including Miranda Nation, Neasa Hardiman, and Romi Trower. By fostering a creative environment that values inclusivity, Jump Street Films is making strides towards a more diverse and representative Australian film landscape.
The new fund established by Jump Street Films will support three key projects that aim to amplify Jewish voices in Australian cinema. Song Of Songs, directed by Anita Lester, follows a young woman’s journey of self-discovery following her grandmother’s death. The film explores themes of identity, family, and forbidden love, with Ashley Zukerman leading an all-Jewish cast. Additionally, Shoshanna, a debut feature by Justin Olstein, delves into the complexities of desire and duty within a Hasidic community, starring Israeli actors Yael Abecassis and Shlomi Elkabetz.
The third project supported by the fund, The White Pigeon, takes audiences on a journey with Australian painter Lola Cohen as she navigates love and art in the Golan Heights of Israel. This film, directed by Anita Lester, promises to deliver a poignant exploration of relationships, conflict, and the enduring power of creativity. By bridging cultures and landscapes, these films exemplify the universal resonance of storytelling and the importance of sharing diverse perspectives on the big screen.
The rise of initiatives like the fund for Jewish Australian features marks a significant step towards a more inclusive and representative film industry in Australia. By supporting storytellers from diverse backgrounds and amplifying underrepresented voices, production companies like Jump Street Films are shaping the future of Australian cinema. Through the power of storytelling, these films have the potential to educate, inspire, and unite audiences across the globe.
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