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‘Satellite Boy’ makes its mark at Toronto

18 September 2012
Satellite Boy has received critical acclaim after screenings at the recent Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Set in the Kimberley, the film tells the story of Pete, a 10 year old boy who lives in the outback with his grandfather in an old abandoned outdoor cinema. When his grandfather's home is threatened with demolition, Pete sets off for the city with his best friend to try and save his home. 11 year old newcomer, Cameron Wallaby who plays Pete, has wowed audiences with a breakout performance lead by the talented direction of Catriona McKenzie. The film also stars veteran Aboriginal actor, David Gulpilil and Joseph Pedley.

Reviews from the Hollywood Reporter have praised the film, "Catriona McKenzie's debut feature combines a look at Aboriginal folkways, a cute-kid plotline and stunning Australian vistas."

"In the end, McKenzie pulled from Wallaby a breakthrough performance, fuelled by raw emotion and an impish charm."

Variety magazine has commended the outback feature, "Nuanced performances by noted Australian thespian David Gulpilil and 10-year-old newcomer Cameron Wallaby, as well as the extraordinary widescreen compositions of lenser Geoffrey Simpson will ensure international attention for writer-director Catriona McKenzie's serenely confident feature debut."

Local reviewer for The West Australian, Helen Barlow was also taken by the film, "It's story of a cute young Kimberly rascal, Cameron Wallaby, learning the traditional ways of his grandfather, the magnificent David Gulpilil, left a lump in my throat, particularly when Wallaby and his best friend (Joseph Pedley) get lost in the fiery red Bungle Bungles, which have been beautifully captured by Geoffrey Simpson's widescreen cinematography".

Satellite Boy is written and directed by Catriona McKenzie and produced by David Jowsey and Julie Ryan.

Check out the trailer for Satellite Boy here.

Satellite Boy is proudly supported by ScreenWest and Lotterywest.