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The CinefestOZ Podcast

In Conversation with the team from He Ain't Heavy

Season 1, Ep. 1

You need to see this film. Hands down one of Australia’s most exciting new directors, David Vincent-Smith has written and directed an absolute heart stomper. His deftness of touch through subtle semiotic storytelling and the brilliance of all cast and crew absolutely shines through in what is a truly unique film that covers two of the toughest topics to depict; family and addiction. In the booth joining David Vincent-Smith is producer Jess Parker and star Sam Corlett, to discuss the rehearsal process, making unique and sometimes ambitious calls in the face of what is the ‘norm’ to create a film that will surely find it’s legs on the international stage as one of Australia’s best indie film exports of 2024. The heart, bravery, authenticity and soul sings in every frame captured by Lewis Potts and the sound design is utterly brilliant. A film not to be missed and a process to be truly celebrated. Trigger warning; for anyone currently dealing with addiction or addiction within the family, please take care with some elements of this conversation.


Hosted and Produced by Joel Jackson

Starring David Vincent-Smith, Sam Corlett and Jess Parker

Recorded at CinefestOZ 2024


CinefestOZ is supported by Supported by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries through funding from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. Our Premium Festival Partners are City of Busselton and Screenwest, and we acknowledge strong support from Screen Australia, and Lotterywest.

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