“To be surrounded by inspiring creative female energy, it felt like that was the right ground to breed this special story,” Palmer, who adeptly plays cult survivor Freya, explains. “And to have the vulnerability and fragility that these characters needed, which also coexists with their strengths and just inherently being female, it was such a wonderful thing. I think it was necessary to surround this project with all these wonderful talented females.”
Mulvany, who is brilliant as the brutal Aunty Tamsin and shot most of her scenes opposite Otto and the young cast of cult members, described the time on set “as so beautiful”, with the production team and directors, Gracie Otto and Jeffrey Walker, ensuring the set was fun, warm and generous.
“They were the most extraordinary performers I’ve ever worked with,” Mulvany enthuses. “A lot of the time was spent playing magic tricks … drinking hot chocolate and telling funny jokes, and it was just the most beautiful environment. It was such a joy to be around [the young actors’] spirits. And getting to work with Miranda, who is terrifying in this … I’ve long been a fan of hers and her incredible family, so it was a dream come true to work with her because she is such a delight. I could see her imparting her knowledge to these young actors and I hope I did, too.”
And while the more experienced actors were able to share their experience with the newcomers, the exchange of knowledge and ideas flowed both ways.
“Julia’s a real team player … it was incredible to be reminded of that joy,” Mulvany says of her young co-star. “She is more than one to watch – we are all watching her at the moment. Her professionalism blew me away and she became a dear friend.”
For Savage, it was a blessing to be surrounded by such talent.“It was such an insane privilege,” says the teen, who is mesmerising in her role of child cult member Amy.
“It was the craziest, best opportunity I’ve ever had. Working with so many female actors and cast and crew members was really amazing. It’s a really special story and I’m so grateful that I got to be a part of it and work with women who have such illustrious careers.”
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