Region to feature in filmmaker’s second production

VICTORIAN filmmaker Genna Chanelle Hayes has announced plans to produce her next feature film, Olivia, in Ballarat and Melbourne.

The young actor and director will use the movie to focus on the issue of violence against women.

Casting has begun and production is expected to start late this year.

“This is a film I wrote in 2020 during the pandemic lockdowns when increasing numbers of women were reporting cases of domestic violence,” Hayes said.

“And I think everyone now realises the gravity of the situation, particularly here in regional Victoria where women continue to lose their lives at the hands of dangerous men.”

Hayes said that according to Femicide Watch, 58 women and 10 children across Australia have lost their lives to male violence so far this year – twice the national average of past years.

She said Olivia would provide deeper insight into the female experience and allow for greater understanding of the challenges women face when it comes to male violence.

“Most women I know have dealt with some form of abuse at the hands of a man no matter their background or what continent they live on, so this is as far-reaching as an issue can get,” Hayes said.

“And the only way to change the situation is to speak of the experience, which is a really difficult thing for most women to do.

“I think film can help fill that gap.”

Hayes is known for making films in support of social justice. Olivia is a follow-up to her acclaimed feature debut Akoni, which premiered in regional Australia and earnt a collection of nominations – and a few wins – at the AACTA, ARIA, ADG, ACS and ASIN awards in 2022.

Filmed in Australia and West Africa, it tells the story of a Nigerian refugee (played by British-born Nigerian actor Kit Esuruoso), who has difficulty assimilating in Australia after escaping Boko Haram.

When he meets Violet (played by Hayes), his plight offers a contrasting point of view to the party girl and she ultimately opens her heart and her home to him.