Rärriwuy Hick’s May sits apart from a group around a beach fire in the first image from Language of Birds, Erica Glynn’s feature debut about a mother and daughter finding their way back to one another.
The True Colours and Wentworth actor plays an Aboriginal woman reconnecting with her mother after 30 years apart. Newcomer Merrkiyawuy Ganambarr-Stubbs plays Nita. Their reunion brings together different languages and cultures, as well as two strong wills.
The first look was released on 26 October. The film is in post-production following a five-week shoot in North East Arnhem Land, with filming in Yirrkala, Gunyangara and Nhulunbuy.
Glynn adapted Marie Munkara’s book Of Ashes and Rivers that Run to the Sea. She is producing alongside Charlotte Seymour and The Dressmaker producer Sue Maslin, with Dylan River behind the camera.
Hick also serves as a co-producer and helped establish the production’s community connections. The filmmakers worked with Traditional Owners of the Rirratjingu, Gumatj, Wangurri and Ḏäṯiwuy clans. The largely Yolŋu cast includes Baykali Ganambarr, Witiyana Marika and Frances Djulibing.
RadioActive Pictures will distribute Language of Birds in Australia.
