by FilmInk Staff
The team at NewCharacter Productions are excited to announce the world premiere of Beautiful Smile will be taking place at the 31st Austin Film Festival.
Originally conceived during the Melbourne lockdowns and filmed in mid 2022, Beautiful Smile has been a labour of love for the dedicated members of the crew and cast.
Based on a real, lived experience, the story follows Leah, an aspiring model, as she enters into a photoshoot with the rising star photographer: Hamish. Over the course of the shoot, however, Leah must contend with Hamish’s constant attempts to cross her boundaries. As Hamish’s demands escalate and Leah’s defences are peeled away, she is left reeling, and when the final humiliation comes Leah wonders if things will ever be the same again.
Lead Azaleia Bradley, who plays Leah, said of Beautiful Smile: “I am thrilled to hear that Beautiful Smile has been selected for the prestigious Austin Film Festival. Sharing my story through this film was a transformative experience. I believe its emphasis on the reality of everyday abuses of power will resonate with audiences on a profound level. Being selected for this festival is an incredible honour, highlighting the dedication of our cast and crew. I’m excited to experience this journey alongside fellow filmmakers and audiences.”
Director Eugenie Muggleton, on what drew her to the film, said: “I was drawn to Beautiful Smile because it captured how intangible some violations are. A feeling so many of us know, but struggle to put into words. It’s uncomfortably and somehow reassuringly real—at once upsetting and validating.”
Writer, producer and lead, Nicholas Jaquinot, who plays Hamish, said of the acceptance into the Austin Film Festival: “As a writer, it’s a bit of a dream to see a film of mine premiering at the Austin Film Festival. Given its history as one of the most prominent festivals to honour screenwriters in the US, I’m beyond grateful that our film has found its place there.”
Predominantly set in Melbourne’s north, Beautiful Smile was shot at the Big House Arts Studio in Coburg, and also features the iconic Brunswick venue Howler Bar.
For more news, stay tuned to the films Instagram: @beautifulsmile_shortfilm
