by FilmInk Staff
North Queensland Production Company Puts Documentary “HEART” on Global Stage, Securing Top Science Pitch Award
NQ based Millstream Productions Wins Best Science Pitch at Sunny Side of the Doc International Marketplace
Recognising talent and dedication to innovative storytelling in the fields of science and medicine, Millstream Productions’ latest project, HEART, has been awarded the Best Science Pitch at the prestigious Sunny Side of the Doc international marketplace, standing out from an impressive 100 submissions from 61 countries.
Based in the Atherton Tablelands of Far North Queensland, Millstream Productions provides top-tier video production services with a world-class touch. The company has successfully produced videos and documentaries across Australia and beyond since its founding in 2012 by directors Matt Blyth and Alaneo Gloor.
The Sunny Side of the Doc marketplace, held annually in La Rochelle, brings together over 2,000 participants, including producers, directors, broadcasters, and industry professionals, creating a unique environment for exchanging ideas and forming new partnerships.
The winning announcement: The Doc jury recognises the best science pitch this year for its emotional impact and appeal, and a story that affects all of humanity: “The powerful trailer has a blend of strong characters, fascinating and compelling science and dare we say it, heart – of course our choice today is HEART.”
“We are incredibly honoured to receive this award among such outstanding global talent,” said Matt Blyth, Creative Producer and Co-Director at Millstream Productions.
“HEART not only aims to highlight the urgent need for innovation in cardiac care but also encapsulates the emotional journeys of those affected by heart disease. This project reflects our belief in the power of documentary storytelling to enact change and address critical societal issues,” Blyth said.
About the Project: HEART
HEART chronicles the compelling journey of Daniel Timms and his team, who are on a mission to develop a revolutionary artificial heart with only one moving part.
With exclusive access to BiVACOR’s headquarters in Los Angeles as well as their Australian labs, Texas Heart Institute and Saint Luke’s Hospital in Houston, Texas, Millstream Productions has followed BiVACOR and Timms’ journey from concept and development to the first implantation of the BiVACOR device into critically ill patients, ultimately saving their lives.
The film will also portray the emotional plight of patients like Ally Babineaux, known as the ‘Bionic Bride’, who faces the potential of her third heart transplant failure with dwindling hope.
As Timms races to bring his innovative device to fruition, stories of sacrifice, ethical dilemmas, and sheer human determination are intricately woven into the fabric of scientific advancement.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death globally, claiming more lives than all cancers combined. With the potential to fundamentally change cardiac treatment, Timms’ device offers hope to countless patients awaiting a miracle.
The project is currently in development, with completion expected by 2027-28, and promises theatrical feature and series formats.
Millstream Productions remains dedicated to highlighting significant narratives that reflect and challenge the world today.
“Join us on this transformative journey as we tell the story of HEART — where science meets human resilience,” he said.
About Sunny Side of the Doc
Sunny Side of the Doc is dedicated to uniting the documentary industry through its key objectives of fostering the global circulation of documentary programs, facilitating networking and co-productions, and educating industry professionals about market trends and technologies.
Its vibrant atmosphere and dedication to supporting independent storytellers make it a cornerstone event for documentary filmmakers and content creators.
