Culture / Film

Australian Cody Fern’s directorial debut has an all-star cast

Australia might be isolated, geographically speaking, but that hasn't stopped our most talented creatives making their mark in Hollywood. The latest Aussie export on the precipice of major stardom is Cody Fern, a Western Australia native set to make his directorial debut, with stars like Naomi Watts and Odessa A'zion in tow.

If you aren't familiar with Fern, his on-screen credits might serve as a reminder. Before making the switch to behind the camera, Fern was making a name for himself as an actor in the likes of American Horror Story, and the Apple TV series Foundation.

So, what is the project that has attracted such stellar names? Below, everything we know about Fern's unnamed feature.

 

Who is involved?

It would be an understatement to say this cast is stacked. At this stage, it features Oscar nominee Naomi Watts and rising star Odessa A'zion, alongside fellow American Horror Story alum Sarah Paulson, plus Dianne Wiest, and Toby Wallace.

Behind the scenes, Fern is joined by producers Nancy Grant (who was behind Oscar frontrunner Sentimental Value), and Rosalie Chicoine Perreault. He also wrote the screenplay alongside fellow actor Devon Bostick (best known for Oppenheimer).

 

What is it about?

The official logline is unlike anything we've ever come across. The film centres on Paulson's character, Sandra Vale, “a celebrated actress whose life begins to unravel on the eve of her greatest performance. When her sister April (Watts) arrives in New York after a 30-year estrangement, the stage is set for a tense family confrontation. Wiest plays vitriolic family matriarch Diane, while Wallace plays April’s son, Theo. A’zion will portray Lucy, a willful rebel on the edge of a life-altering decision.”

 

When will it come out?

There's no word yet on an official release date, but filming is currently underway in Montreal. If we had to guess, we'd say the film will be released in time for a premiere at a major film festival. Watch this space...

 

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