Feature film set for south coast

Albany will become the set for another major Australian feature film, with Screenwest to announce today H is for Happiness will be shot on the south coast.

The Great Southern will become the setting for the film’s small coastal town, which is based on children’s book My Life As An Alphabetby Barry Jonsberg.

Award-winning theatre director John Sheedy will make his feature-film directing debut with the Cyan Films production.

The film will tell a heart-warming story of family and friendship, following 12-year-old Candice Phee, who has boundless opti-mism and a unique view of the world.

Sheedy said was he thrilled to return to WA for his directorial debut.

“Having spent several years in Perth creating theatrical works for young people and families, it seems very fitting,” he said.

“I am equally delighted to have the opportunity to work with producers Julie Ryan of Cyan Films, Tenille Kennedy, and screenwriter and producer Lisa Hoppe, who has constructed a hilariously quirky and moving script that is sure to resonate with any child or family that feels different.

“I look forward to re-engaging in the assembly of local talented actors and creatives and spending time in Albany, which is the perfect backdrop to bring this story to the screen.”

Casting has begun for the film, which will be shot later this year.

Sheedy’s short film Mrs McCutcheon had its world premiere at the Melbourne International Film Festival in 2017, where it won best short, going on to win several awards from festivals around the world.

Screenwest chief executive Seph McKenna said he was delighted with the number of screen productions being filmed in WA.

“It’s such an exciting time for our local film and screen industry and it’s great to witness more national and international teams realising the value of shooting their projects here,” he said.

H is for Happiness has received major production investment from Screen Australia in association with WA Regional Film Fund and Screenwest. The film is also partially funded by the MIFF.