by FilmInk Staff
Newly formed Australian production company Desert Bloom Pictures has unveiled Thomas Cook 100, a branded film celebrating the centenary of Thomas Cook Boot and Clothing Co, one of Australia’s most enduring apparel brands.
A cinematic retelling of the company’s origin story, the film traces the underdog journey of a young Thomas Cook from hardship and survival in a state boys’ home, to finding purpose through craftsmanship, boxing and love.
Shot across urban and regional Victoria, Thomas Cook 100 evokes the spirit of a bygone Australia, from the wheat fields of Western Australia to the boxing halls of Melbourne, rendered in sweeping, cinematic detail.
“When we sat down with the Cook family, it became clear this wasn’t just an ad, it was their family story,” says Director Curtis Hill. “To do Pop’s legacy justice, we had to go all in and make a full-blown 1920s period film. It’s a love letter to early cinema as much as to the brand itself.”
The film features an exceptional creative team, most notably wardrobe designer Marion Boyce (The Dressmaker, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries), cinematographer Alex Serafini (This Is Going to Be Big), editor Dan Lee (Mr Inbetween) and hair & makeup artist Natalie Burley (High Ground, Foe).
Producer Will Storr added, “It was a true team effort. There was a real sense of community on this project. We’re so grateful for the passion and dedication every member of the cast and crew brought to the piece.” The film premiered as part of Thomas Cook’s centenary celebrations, and has since launched across the brand’s digital platforms. For Desert Bloom Pictures, the Thomas Cook centenary film marks a natural step toward larger narrative ambitions. The duo are now developing a slate of projects, including two documentary series and a feature film.
