A new zombie thriller headlined by Daisy Ridley is set against a Tasmanian backdrop, but the production opted to shoot the bulk of its scenes in Western Australia, a move attributed to logistical challenges. Officials involved describe the Tasmanian setting as central to the story, with Hobart and coastal towns shaping the narrative, while WA was chosen to keep production on track and within budget constraints.
The project has drawn attention within the Australian film circuit for its ambitious on-location ambitions and the unusual shift across state lines. While the script relies on a distinctly Tasmanian atmosphere, those involved say the WA shoot allowed access to crews, studios, and permits needed to push the production forward. The decision underscores a broader conversation about how logistics shape where Australian stories are brought to life.
Industry observers say the arrangement illustrates the practical trade-offs faced by small-to-mid-budget projects in Australia. The production calendar, weather windows, and workforce availability can all influence where key sequences are filmed. In this case, the producers have framed the WA locations as a pragmatic solution that preserves the film’s creative aims while navigating real-world constraints. As with many genre projects, the balance between story requirements and logistical realities often dictates where a movie finally takes shape.
What we know
- The feature is a zombie horror project led by Daisy Ridley, with a storyline framed around a Tasmanian setting.
- The narrative reportedly includes significant scenes tied to Hobart as part of the on-screen world.
- Principal photography occurred in Western Australia due to logistical considerations rather than Tasmania alone.
- Producers describe the WA shoot as a choice to maintain schedule and budget while meeting creative aims.
- The project is being watched as part of a broader push to grow Australian genre productions and to position WA as a viable filming hub.
Beyond the headline facts, observers are assessing how the location shift might affect small-town Tasmanian crews and local industry opportunities. The story also adds to ongoing discussions about balancing authentic settings with the practicalities of film production in Australia.
What we don’t know
- The exact budget and funding mix behind the project remain undisclosed.
- Any definite release window or distribution plan for the film has not been announced.
- How much of the final cut will depict the Tasmanian environment versus WA locations.
- Whether there will be any additional shoots back in Tasmania or other states.
- The long-term impact on Tasmanian film crews and potential future collaborations with WA-based facilities is not yet clear.
As more industry players weigh in, the film’s fate may hinge on how effectively the production translates a distinctly Tasmanian mood to audiences, even as the bulk of filming unfolds in Western Australia. If successful, the project could become a case study in how logistics shape Australian cinema without compromising a strong regional identity.
