First time feature film writer/director Dorthe Scheffmann begins shooting Vermilion in Ponsonby and Central Auckland today.
Vermilion tells the story of a group of women who are close to each other – mothers, daughters, friends and neighbours. Some of their relationships are good and some are broken. When the central character, Darcy, is confronted by a challenging truth, she finds herself driven to organise the wedding of her only daughter Zoe. Her best friend Sarah falls in love and twelve-year-old Issy just wants to be a bride too.
The film features an ensemble cast led by acclaimed New Zealand actress Jennifer Ward-Lealand (Desperate Remedies, Full Frontal). Joining her is Theresa Healy (Ted & Sylvia, Harry) Goretti Chadwick (Sione’s Wedding, Apron Strings), Peter Feeney (Black Sheep, Abandoned) and newcomer Emily Campbell.
Scheffmann is a filmmaker with 30 years’ experience, producing and directing commercials and award winning shorts. For the past 10 years Scheffmann has been immersed in the academic world, teaching and writing.
The film is being produced by Michele Fantl (When Love Comes, 50 Ways of Saying Fabulous), Nik Beachman (Mahana), with associate producer Paul Scantlebury. Key film crew include DOP Maria Ines Manchego (Love Story, Pulp), costume designer Kristin Seth (The Dark Horse, Pork Pie) and editor Peter Roberts (The Dark Horse). The film’s score will be composed by Don McGlashan.
Vermilion is a Vermilion Limited production made with investment from the New Zealand Film Commission, TVNZ and NZOA. Rialto Distribution will release the film in New Zealand and Australia.