The Canary, filmed entirely in Western Australia by local writer, director, and actor Emilie Lowe as her debut film has been winning high praises internationally.
Set during the nineteenth century, The Canary follows protagonist Florence, who, endures the sinking of the transport vessel she is on and is set adrift on the open ocean. With little but a wooden lifeboat and caged canary beside her, Florence must find the strength to defy the social standards of her time, utilising her own determination to endure the vast ocean and to try to survive the hostile Australian wilderness.
Filmed by four dedicated filmmakers, the tiny team faced many challenges making The Canary including a heatwave, location difficulties, and filming in the middle of Covid.
Emilie has dyslexia and her cinematographer, Peter Renzullo is legally blind with Cone Dystrophy so the movie’s message of perseverance, self-acceptance, and overcoming the odds is something the creators know all about.
Not letting their disabilities hold them back, Renzullo and Lowe have produced a visually stunning period drama that showcases WA’s amazing landscapes.
The films beautiful scenery and dreamlike music score suite the period nature of the film.
“We filmed many shots in local WA suburbs, also in Albany, Wongan Hills, Yallingup and on the SS Leeuwin in Fremantle before it was damaged.
“I wanted to showcase the amazing landscape we have here in Western Australia and show that films can be made in WA even with a tiny budget like ours,” said director and writer Emilie Lowe.
Following a successful festival run winning several awards at The Tokyo Film Awards, New York Independent Film Awards, and New York Women’s Film Festival in cinematography, acting, directing, costume, and original story, The Canary is screening at the Luna cinemas in Perth on April 6 followed by showings in Melbourne and Sydney.
“I hope my film encourages other emerging filmmakers to get out there and take risks. If you have a unique vision, give it everything you have and go for it,” said Emilie.
Find out more at www.saltandhoneyproductions.com.au
