The film was created on a modest budget with the support of passionate volunteers and emerging creatives.
Benalla Rural City Council will be supporting the world premiere screening, with Mayor Bernie Hearn celebrating Mr Johnston’s creativity.
“Jack Johnston and everyone involved have shown what can happen when local people share their passion and work together,” Cr Hearn said.
“The film also highlights the beautiful landscapes and creative talent we have here in north-east Victoria.”
The film follows Lily, a young woman struggling to find her place in inner-city Melbourne as she tries to support her best friend, Shane, through a difficult time in his life.
When she promises to take him to an alternative mental health retreat near her home town, the journey instead leads them to a rural commune, where hidden truths and unresolved tensions begin to surface.
Mr Johnston said the story reflected experiences familiar to many young people navigating identity and belonging.
“I began developing this story while living in Melbourne and feeling caught between two places — the place you know too well and the place where you’re still discovering who you are,” he said.
“It was important to me that the landscapes and people of north-east Victoria were part of the story, and the film was made possible thanks to the incredible support of local communities and talent.”
The premiere screening will be held on Saturday, April 11 at 7.30pm at Benalla Cinema, 14 Mair St.
It will also include a Q&A session with the director and cast, giving audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the making of an independent film.
Tickets, which cost $25, can be purchased at benallacinema.com.au/cinema-event
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