LOGLINE
Jane Dearie is experiencing the most tragic days of her life. She longs for peace and space to grieve, but finds neither of these in the company of Milktooth, the mischievous child who appeared when it all began.
director's statement
The story of Milktooth began with two key elements; the heart and the music. It was largely driven by my experiences as a Funeral Director combined with my passion for bringing the brimful talents of Australian artists to the world stage.
I have been privileged to spend much of my life as an educator for young children and the eldest sister to two beautiful girls. Coming into the funeral industry I quickly felt like I had found my place supporting families who had kids, or had lost them. I was intrigued by the relationship grief has with youth, the way that parents often regress behaviourally while many young children rush to mature in the face of what is considered an 'adult situation.' Many approach funeral arrangements anxiously, keen to avoid end-of-life discussions altogether, but this only deepens fear around the topic.
I aspire for Milktooth to foster connection, encouraging conversations around life after loss and especially demystifying this time for young people. In contemporary Australia, funerals are seldom a sombre occasion. Instead, families laugh amidst their tears, recounting stories of love and joy. To me, this is the heart of a community; celebrating life and the love that allows grief to manifest.
Milktooth puts everything on display, the highs of reconnecting with your inner child and lows of gut-wrenching guilt, all to the soundtrack of young emerging musicians from Perth, Australia. From pop starlet Jayda D'Agostino, to CHEZ and her band, who deliver a wicked cameo, to experimental yet warm father/daughter duo Tenspeed, and finally, the cosy and eclectic musings of Grace Sanders; every hand-picked song has an important part to play in weaving together Jane and Milktooth's journey.
This film is a testament to the talent tucked away in the most secluded city in the world, to the trials and tribulations of first-time filmmaking, and a love letter to many, notably my little sisters, who keep my inner-Milktooth brimming with love.
CAST
Ashton Bolt as Jane
Milla Graham-Arho as Milktooth
Charlotte Robertson as Quinn
Asha Vivian as Pip
Joe Haworth as Teddy
Luna Har Paz as Chelsea
Kate Elder as Mum
Phil Bedworth as Dad
