Filming has commenced in Sydney, Australia, for “The Room Below,” a psychological creature thriller featuring Jonathan Rhys Meyers and Alyssa Sutherland in leading roles. The project is helmed by writer-director Kurt Martin, known for his previous work on “Moon Rock for Monday,” and is produced by Byron Bay-based Lunar Pictures.
The film centers on Mia, an expectant mother and celebrated children’s author, who begins to experience eerie occurrences in her home when a boy resembling her deceased son goes missing. As Mia grapples with her overwhelming grief, her increasingly erratic behavior draws the attention of a retired detective determined to solve the mystery of the missing child.
Rhys Meyers, an Ireland-born actor, boasts a diverse portfolio that includes notable films and series such as “Velvet Goldmine,” “The Tudors,” and “Dracula.” Sutherland is recognized for her roles in the acclaimed series “Vikings” and the horror film “Evil Dead Rise.” The supporting cast features Bobby Gilchrist, known for “Shapeless” and “The Invisible Raptor,” alongside Gilbert Bradman from “Transfusion” and “The Twelve.”
Kurt Martin describes “The Room Below” as a “deeply intense psychological thriller” that explores themes of grief, guilt, and obsession, enhanced by a uniquely unsettling creature design. He expressed excitement about collaborating with a talented cast and crew for the project.
Martin, an Australia native who initially trained as a lawyer, has a rich background in directing and producing short films. His debut feature, “Moon Rock for Monday,” garnered international attention after being picked up by EOne’s Seville International and licensed to Cinedigm for North American release. The film was showcased at various festivals, including those in Zurich and Beijing, and earned Martin an AACTA nomination for best indie film in 2021.
“The Room Below” is produced by Jim Robison for Lunar Pictures, alongside Chris Chard for CME and Ty Linegar for MIK Studio. The executive production team includes Marc Furmie, William Ramsey, Colin Bates, Adam Callen, Samuel Levine, Roy Scott Macfarland, Clement Dunn, Emma Comley, and actress Jaime King.
Alexandra Taussig, known for her work on “The Narrow Road to the Deep North” and “The Stranger,” serves as a producer consultant for the film.
This project is a collaboration between Lunar Pictures, CME, Valecroft, and MIK Studio, receiving support from Hooligan Dreamers, Tetrad Studios, and Monster Pictures. The award-winning special make-up effects studio Make Up Effects Group, recognized for their work on “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” and “Talk to Me,” is tasked with designing the creature featured in the film. As of now, no sales agent or North American distributor has been confirmed for the project.
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