Best-selling kids novel RUNT is being made into a feature film, shooting right here in WA!

Western Australia’s continued quest to become a filmmaking hotspot appears to be going from strength to strength in 2023…

From award-winning crime dramas and indie darlings to Nicolas Cage shooting a new surf movie down south, our little corner of the world is buzzing with big screen potential.

And now we can add the feature film adaption of Craig Silvey (Jasper Jones, Honeybee)‘s best-selling novel RUNT to the list, shooting in the Wheatbelt region and around Northam.

The adaptation features some pretty big names too, including international star Jai Courtney (Suicide Squad, Jack Reacher), comedian Celeste Barber (Wellmania), Deborah Mailman, Matt Day and Australian film pioneer Jack Thompson.

Leading the movie will be two new stars, nine-year-old Lily LaTorre who plays protagonist Annie Shearer, and rescue dog Squid, taking the title role.

See Pictures have commenced production with investment from Screen Australia, Screenwest and Lotterywest and the WA Regional Screen Fund, with additional funding from Australian Children’s Television Foundation (ACTF), Screen NSW and Spectrum Entertainment.

It’s been adapted by the screen by Silvey and directed by John Sheedy (H is for Happiness), with an international release to follow handled by leading European production house, STUDIOCANAL.

“I’m absolutely thrilled Runt will be moving into production here in Western Australia, with a stellar cast and crew under the brilliant leadership of director John Sheedy and producer Jamie Hilton,” said Silvey.

“I’m a parochial Western Australian storyteller, and I’m especially proud that we will be showcasing the landscapes, architecture, and community spirit of the Wheatbelt region through the town of Upson Downs.”

The book tells the story of Annie Shearer and her adopted dog Runt, trying to save the family farm by competing in the Agility Course Grand Championships at the prestigious Krumpets Dog Show in London.

“Screenwest is excited to see yet another fantastic WA story being brought to life on the big screen,” said Screenwest CEO Rikki Lea Bestall.

“RUNT is sure to be an instant family classic and is continuing our biggest year of scripted production ever and flurry of screen activity happening in the Wheatbelt region.”

Heade Image: Craig Silvey, Lily LaTorre and Squid, Credit: Court McAllister