A film-maker originally from Young is returning home to shoot a short film on LGBTQIA+ issues in regional communities.
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‘Cherry Season’ is directed by award-winning filmmaker Joshua Longhurst (Oasis) who was born and raised in Young where the film is set and where it will be shot on location.
The project marks the first time Mr Longhurst will examine his roots in a cinematic story.
The film has been written by Green Room Award-winning writer Tim Spencer (Oasis) and produced by Rosie Braye.
Mr Longhurst is a part of the independent film production company, Wintergarden Pictures.
NSW Minister for the Arts Don Harwin and SBS announced Mr Longhurst and company as one of six emerging filmmaking teams to create short films that will air as part of SBS’s coverage of the 40th Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival in 2018.
The film has been described as an ambitious project representing diversity, intersectionality and regional Australia on screen.
“We are honoured to be counted amongst an impressive group of GEFF recipients this year and I am thrilled to be returning to my hometown,” Mr Longhurst said.
“Growing up in Young, the natural beauty and isolation enhanced my imagination and love for film.”
Mr Longhurst said he can recognise and appreciate the beauty and isolation even more now he is an adult.
“As a kid I would spend my weekends at my nan's house with my auntie’s camera strapped to my wrist making my cousin act out the skits I wrote.”
Mr Longhurst believes Young can be a very supportive community.
“I am looking forward to representing my roots on national TV next year, thanks to SBS,” he said.
“I have always wanted to make a film in the Hilltops region and I hope to come back in the near future to make a long-form project as well.”
Cherry Season will screen on SBS and SBS On Demand in 2018.
Joshua Longhurst and the production team welcome community support and would also like to offer opportunities for young people to engage in the filmmaking process.
Local businesses and individuals are invited to contact Wintergarden Pictures for further information at rosie@wintergarden.pictures or by going to https://australianculturalfund.org.au/projects/cherry-season-short-film/.
