Australasian Cinema > films > West of Sunshine

West of Sunshine

West of Sunshine (Jason Raftopoulos, 2017) wr. Jason Raftopoulos; Damian Hill, Ty Perham, Arthur Angel, Kat Stewart, Tony Nikolakopoulos, Kaarin Fairfax, Faye Smythe; drama; released 23Aug18

Synopsis: Separated from his family and caught in a cycle of gambling and debt, Jim has less than a day to repay a loan shark. His day is turned upside down when he must look after his young son who is on school holidays. Jim’s relationship with his son is tested as his plans to pay back the loan fail. When his last desperate effort to repay the debt puts his son’s life at risk, he must make a choice between his past and a second chance at life.

A Best Indie Film candidate (recognising Australian films made with a budget under $2 million), West of Sunshine has already been the toast of the town at Venice last year and the Sydney and Melbourne Film Festivals this year, featuring Damian Hill (Pawno) together with his real life step-son, Ty Perham, playing his on-screen son, in a tale that brings gritty and heart-rending performances to the big screen. A story about battlers, about making decisions that desperation drives you to, and keeping your family close. I enjoyed this film for it’s raw, emotional scope and the strong performances. Annie Parnell.

Jason Raftopoulos's second feature is Voices in Deep, 2021.

Garry Gillard | New: 16 August, 2018 | Now: 13 July, 2021