Jennifer Ward-Lealand Leads Ensemble Cast in Feature Film
First time feature film writer/director Dorthe Scheffmann begins shooting Vermilion in Ponsonby and Central Auckland
today.
Vermilion tells the story of a group of women who are close to each other – mothers, daughters, friends and neighbours.
Some of their relationships are good and some are broken. When the central character, Darcy, is confronted by a
challenging truth, she finds herself driven to organise the wedding of her only daughter Zoe. Her best friend Sarah
falls in love and twelve-year-old Issy just wants to be a bride too.
The film features an ensemble cast led by acclaimed New Zealand actress Jennifer Ward-Lealand (Desperate Remedies, Full
Frontal). Joining her is Theresa Healy (Ted & Sylvia, Harry) Goretti Chadwick (Sione’s Wedding, Apron Strings), Peter Feeney (Black Sheep, Abandoned) and newcomer
Emily Campbell.
Scheffmann is a filmmaker with 30 years’ experience, producing and directing commercials and award winning shorts. For
the past 10 years Scheffmann has been immersed in the academic world, teaching and writing.
The film is being produced by Michele Fantl (When Love Comes, 50 Ways of Saying Fabulous), Nik Beachman (Mahana), with
associate producer Paul Scantlebury. Key film crew include DOP Maria Ines Manchego (Love Story, Pulp), costume designer
Kristin Seth (The Dark Horse, Pork Pie) and editor Peter Roberts (The Dark Horse). The film’s score will be composed by
Don McGlashan.
Vermilion is a Vermilion Limited production made with investment from the New Zealand Film Commission, TVNZ and NZOA.
Rialto Distribution will release the film in New Zealand and Australia.
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