Over the past decade, audiences have embraced powerful films of all budgets exploring children, justice and institutional accountability. Spotlight (US, 2015), Custody (Jusqu'à la garde) (France, 2017), System Crasher (Systemsprenger) (Germany, 2019) and Take Care of Maya(US, 2023) have demonstrated critical and commercial demand for socially relevant stories. And Sound of Freedom- a total phenomenon - grossed more than US$250 million globally.
Hostage of the State seeks to occupy this same space, bringing an Australian story with international relevance as child departments operate the same way in western countries. But, it's the global success of Netflix's Take Care of Maya -- a family torn apart after a medical investigation, that is encouraging.
We had success marketing The Jammed on almost no money, and that was before the surge of social media. We have some very exciting and unique ideas to publicize this film (to be discussed).
It would be nice to achieve a box-office bonanza, but our expectations are grounded, realistic and focused on producing a powerful film that finds its audience - a global audience - through both limited theatrical release and streaming platforms.
Hostage of the State is not simply a film. It is the spearhead of a much broader initiative. At the end of the film a QR code will lead to a link to support investigative journalism, podcasts, support resources, legal and public-interest litigation. Our ambition is contribute to meaningful reform.
Investments, Donations, Offsets & Sales
We are
looking for a production budget of AU $3 - $3.5 million.
This is a
tightly do-able budget that will also attract an additional contribution from
the ATO of up to 40% of qualifying Australian spend, that will guarantee a
considerable marketing and distribution spend and contribute to investor
recoupment.
As the writer-director, I have, as they say, "skin in the game." Over the past eight years, I have devoted myself to investigating, researching and advocating on behalf of families affected by the child protection system. That work has shaped every page of this screenplay and has convinced me that this story needs to be told.
I believe the greatest opportunity to bring about meaningful and lasting change is to ensure this film is made—and, through the support of strategic partners, philanthropists and distributors, reaches the widest audience possible.
"The future depends on what we do today." Mahatma Gandhi
To investors or philanthropists, please email or call us to request more background on the financial structure and potential of the film, and the greater project.
