Alice Springs locals shine in world premiere at Byron Bay International Film Festival

A film that is based in Alice Springs with a cast and crew made up entirely of locals has premiered at the Byron Bay International Film Festival.

‘Under Streetlights’ is an independent feature film that follows the journey of two young people whose love for music and their family issues connects them despite their different backgrounds.

Based on true events the film explores the very real and challenging topics that people who live in Central Australia face every day, such as alcoholism, growing up in town camps and police interactions. These topics are explored through the lens of the young people who are both musicians and use it as an escape to push through the adversities in their lives.

Part of the crew was Charles Darwin University Contemporary Music Lecturer Cain Gilmour; Mr Gilmour was the Music Producer for the movie. He is a local musician and producer who has worked with many well-known local artists, including Jacob Harvey, King J and the co-lead actor Madison Hull who is a former CDU Music Studies student and part of the local Alice Springs duo The Wanted Gems.

With Mr Gilmour’s expertise and the cast’s love of music he developed five original songs for the film.

Mr Gilmour said that it was a privilege to work alongside such a diverse and talented bunch of young people and it really is a collaborative project.

“This film allowed us to use our creative and artistic abilities and work towards something we are all proud of,” Mr Gilmour said.

“The cast really put themselves into their parts and were all a part of bringing the musical side of the film together.”

Members of the cast and crew including Mr Gilmour travelled to Byron Bay for the premiere and said it was an incredible experience.

“It was an honour to be able to attend the World Premiere and see the final production, our young people are so talented, and I am glad I could help share their talent with more people,” he said.

The film received a standing ovation to a sold-out audience in Byron Bay and booked a second screening.

With the support of CDU, producer Danielle Loy wants to host a special screening in Alice Springs.

To learn more about the film and the talent involved visit Under Streetlights.

Charles Darwin University will begin accepting 2024 Applications for Music Studies on 1 December 2023, both in Alice Springs and Darwin.