Sacrifice, which will be filmed on location in Melbourne is headlined by an impressive cast including Richard Norton (Mad Max: Fury Road), four-time Gold Logie winner Lisa McCune (Blue Heelers), Australia’s leading lady of musical theatre Marina Prior, accomplished television personality Grant Piro (Utopia) and Neighbours heartthrob James Mason.
The film details the relationship between military officer Blake Robinson and humanitarian lawyer James Hunter, and the personal turmoil that develops through Blake’s unwavering sense of duty to his lineage and love for James.
The story is based on an original short film that gained international acclaim streaming on platforms throughout the USA, UK, Asia, Europe and Australia, including Prime Video.
Sacrifice is written and created by Leigh Smith who plays James Hunter alongside up-and-coming actor Isaac Crawley as his partner Blake.
Set in the early 2010s, the story highlights a same-sex relationship within the Australian Army and the level of ‘sacrifice’ encountered. Given the progressive changes toward queer identity in the military, Sacrifice has already gained support through the Defence Force Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender and Intersex Information Service (DEFGLIS).
In playing the former soldier and patriarchal figure Walter Robinson, who suffers from PTSD, Richard Norton sees the complex character as somewhat confronting.
“The drama and the friction are something I am looking forward to playing,” says Norton. “I’m excited about this film because the role is challenging, and it scares me!”
For Lisa McCune, who plays Rose Robinson, the film is a collaboration of dedicated talent in a story of equality and love.
“When a filmmaker can see you in a role and you respond to the material, there’s a wonderful synergy in that!” says McCune. “The journeys travelled by these characters are tough, and many will see their own struggles reflected in the film. Respect and acceptance are the two big takeaways for me.”
In the role of Australian solider Nicholas Swift, James Mason feels humbled to be part of a story that he feels highlights humanity.
“Sacrifice shows that regardless of our sexual preferences or any other individual traits, we are driven by the same needs and desires,” says Mason. “Sometimes we need to fight for happiness and to be true to ourselves.”
The film is being directed by Lene Chor (Winners & Losers) with cinematography by Emmy Nominated Mark Kenfield (Choir Girl) and is produced by award-winning producer Lucinda Bruce (Evan Wood) through Lady of the Light Productions.
Sacrifice is slated for a 2025 release.
