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Michael Shanks’ debut feature Together, starring Alison Brie and Dave Franco, will open the Sydney Film Festival in June, marking the film’s Australian premiere.
The local horror bowed in Sundance earlier this year, where it was subject to a bidding war, eventually selling to indie distributor Neon for an estimated $10-20 million – believed to be one of the biggest deals ever for an Australian film.
Shot at Docklands Studios Melbourne, Together sees real-life couple Brie and Franco play Millie and Tim, who relocate to the country in search of a quieter life. While Millie adjusts with ease, Tim finds the transition harder – and begins to lean heavily on her support. A series of strange events, an unnervingly friendly neighbour (played by Damon Herriman), and a supernatural encounter in a nearby cave sends the couple on a ride that will bring them closer “together” than ever.
Together was produced by Mike Cowap of Princess Pictures, with executive producers Emma Fitzsimons and Laura Waters.
“We are thrilled to open the 2025 Festival with Together, a fiercely original work that showcases the creative ambition of a new voice in Australian cinema,” said Sydney Film Festival director Nashen Moodley.
“Michael Shanks has crafted a bold and inventive debut that shifts seamlessly between tones, anchored by fully committed performances from Alison Brie and Dave Franco.”
Shanks said having his film open the festival was a “huge honour”.
“Despite our US leads, this is an Australian film through and through and I’m so proud to showcase what amazing crew and cast we have in our local industry. I got altitude sickness in Utah when the film premiered in Sundance, and thankfully that’s far less likely to happen when it premieres in Sydney.”
Kismet has ANZ distribution rights.
Together will premiere at Sydney Film Festival June 4 at the State Theatre, followed by a post-screening celebration at Sydney Town Hall.
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