Naomi Watts and Odessa A’zion have joined the cast of Cody Fern’s first feature film as a director, an Australian-Canadian co-production currently filming in Montreal. They join previously announced actors Sarah Paulson, Dianne Wiest, and Toby Wallace. Toni Collette, who was initially attached to the project, is no longer involved.

The untitled film centers on Sandra Vale (played by Paulson), a celebrated actress whose life begins to unravel just before her most important performance. The story intensifies with the arrival of her sister April (Watts) in New York after a 30-year estrangement, leading to a tense family reunion. Dianne Wiest portrays Diane, the sharp-tongued family matriarch, while Toby Wallace plays Theo, April’s son. Odessa A’zion takes on the role of Lucy, a determined rebel facing a critical decision.

The screenplay was co-written by Cody Fern and Devon Bostick. The production is led by Matilda Comers and Will Howarth of Fictious, alongside Nancy Grant (known for Mommy and Sentimental Value) and Rosalie Chicoine Perreault (Geographies of Solitude). Executive producers include Timothy White, Tanya Lapointe, Amanda Freedman, Lucile Vainstein, Raphael Quenard, and Patrick DesRosiers. Cinematography is by Yves Bélanger.

The project is supported by Screen Australia and Telefilm Canada under the co-production treaty. International sales are managed by mk2 Films, with distribution handled by Icon in Australia, Elevation Pictures in Canada, and Ad Vitam in France. Post-production is planned to take place in New South Wales.

Louise Gough, director of narrative content at Screen Australia, described Fern’s film as bold, complex, and deeply human. She expressed confidence that it will establish Fern as a significant creative talent both in Australia and internationally. Gough also highlighted the strong collaboration between Canadian and Australian partners, emphasizing the film’s global appeal and the strength of its creative teams.

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