AUGUSTA-Margaret River Shire chief executive officer Gary Evershed got to see the premiere of Drift, filmed mainly in Margaret River, while in Cannes recently on annual leave.
“Drift, although not part of the official competition, has been seen by influential prospective distributors from around the world,” he said.
“The surfing footage and local scenery are amazing but it quickly evolves into a serious drama featuring the two Kelly brothers played by Myles Pollard and Xavier Samuel, with Sam Worthington playing a roaming surfing nomad.
"It’s a story about fighting for what you believe in against the odds and the many setbacks which are encountered along the way.
“It contains some drug references but certainly does not glamourise drug use and, in fact the opposite - portrays the dangers of becoming heavily involved in drugs.
“From talking to co-writer and producer Tim Duffy he has been really pleased with the contacts made and with potential sales following the proposed launch later in the year or 2013.
"I think the shire’s decision to invest $25,000 has been vindicated by the quality of the product and many local surfers and contributors are acknowledged in the credits.
"Talking to Screenwest CEO Ian Booth there is a lot of interest in further filming in the Margaret River region," Mr Evershed said.
His holiday and trip to Cannes was self-funded.
