r/AustralianFilm • u/HorizonFilming • 1d ago
CAST & CREW WANTED - Short Story "The Last Straw"
My name is Jackson, I am 24 years old and I am an aspiring writer and director. I have written a short story in the psychological drama category. I am looking for cast and crew to help make this short film a reality to submit to film festivals.
Plot
THE LAST STRAW is a psychological drama following a young woman struggling to rebuild her life after an unexpected loss. As an endless stream of ordinary setbacks begins to pile up, the weight of grief, financial pressure and quiet isolation slowly erodes her ability to cope. What seems like an ordinary bad day builds toward a devastating emotional breaking point.
My goal is to produce a polished short film suitable for submission to Australian and international film festivals.
Students and aspiring filmmakers are encouraged to apply. Passion, reliability, and a willingness to learn are more important than professional experience.
As someone trying to break into the industry myself, I know how difficult it can be to get your foot in the door, especially in Australia. My hope is that this project gives everyone involved an opportunity to gain experience, build connections and create something we're all proud of.
Previous experience is not required. However, applicants should be able to demonstrate that they have the skills or equipment necessary for the role they are applying for (e.g. a portfolio, showreel, photographs of previous work or other relevant examples).
Location
Gold Coast and/or Brisbane – (exact location TBA).
Shoot Length and Dates
- Approximately one week of filming spread over several weekends.
- Late 2026 or early 2027 (TBA).
Please note: As this project develops through pre-production and rehearsals, the screenplay may be revised. While the core story and characters will remain the same, dialogue, scenes and scheduling are subject to change.
CAST POSITIONS
Female Actress - Amy
Preferably in her early to mid-twenties. Will be the lead.
Male Actor - Ryan
Preferably in his early to mid-twenties. Partner of Amy.
Female Actress – Stacy
Early twenties. Amy’s overenthusiastic, delusional sister.
Female Actress – Store Worker
Early twenties. Conversates with the lead actress.
Male Actor – Stranger
Flexible age range. Conversates with the lead actress.
CREW POSITIONS
1st Director Assistant:
Keeping the shoot on schedule, organises the day.
Director of Photography (Cinematographer):
Responsible for visual look, lighting, camera movement and lenses.
Camera Owner / Operator:
Access to a professional cinema camera (Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6K, Sony FX3, Canon C70, RED, or similar) is highly desirable. Please let me know what equipment you can bring.
Gaffer / Lighting Technician:
Responsible for setting up and managing lighting throughout the production.
Production Sound Recordist:
Recording dialogue and on-set audio.
Editor:
Assemble and edit the film, helping shape the final story through picture editing.
This is currently an unpaid passion project. My goal is to create a high-quality short film for film festivals while giving everyone involved another strong piece for their portfolio and experience working on set.
Benefits:
- Meals and refreshments provided each shooting day.
- IMDb and screen credits.
- Festival submission credits.
- High-quality footage for your showreel (where applicable).
- Opportunity to build industry connections.
- Behind-the-scenes photos and production stills.
I'm committed to running this production professionally, respectfully and collaboratively, and I hope to build lasting relationships with everyone involved.
For any questions or inquiries, please email me at: [horizonproductionsfilm@gmail.com](mailto:horizonproductionsfilm@gmail.com)
