Statues

Short FIlm

Synopsis

As a storm brews, brothers Marcus (Myles McEwen) and Oliver (Ripley Stevens) return to their share house after their grandmother Annabelle's funeral. Reunited with housemates Steph (Alexandra Todorashko) and James (Jack Rawlinson), their grief-stricken homecoming takes a disturbing turn. Lifelike, Greek-style statues of the brothers mysteriously appear in the backyard, stirring deep, unspoken tensions and unearthing unresolved grief.

Paranoia frays their fragile bond, stripping away masculine facades to reveal raw vulnerability. But just as connection seems possible, lightning strikes – animating the statues. Marcus and Oliver must confront their uncanny, emotionless doubles in a terrifying battle for their very essence.

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About

Directed by Ripley Stevens in a powerful solo directorial debut, 'Statues' is a deeply personal and vulnerable exploration of family, masculinity, grief, and identity, underpinned by a potent feminine force represented by Annabelle Cellini (Tiina McEwen) and amplified by Amelia Rooney's profoundly organic score.

Shot on large format cinema cameras by DoP Cam Liu, meticulously edited and sound-designed (5.1 surround) by Myles McEwen over six months, and featuring stunning VFX, 'Statues' showcases exceptional craft. The film boasts an incredible ensemble of award-winning South Australian cast and crew, including producer Ryan Davies ('TOBY'), and actors Alexandra Todorashko ('Mary in the Mirror') and Jack Rawlinson ('Switch').

Ripley Stevens, often hailed alongside Myles McEwen as the "next Racka Racka," continues to gain recognition as a visionary filmmaker. As 'Nightfall' secures international distribution (Black Mandala Films) and the team preps their third feature film collaboration with Black Mandala and Vinny Walsh Films, 'Statues' stands as a testament to their artistic depth and ambition.

This is more than just a film; it's an experience that challenges perceptions of masculinity and embraces vulnerability as a path to growth. It's a deeply Australian story brought to life with passion by Adelaide's finest talent.

We can't wait for audiences to witness 'Statues' and hope to celebrate its premiere in Adelaide later this year!

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