Private Project

Before we sleep

In a world decimated by war, a young man (Jake) struggles to save his dying brother (River) from sickness. As River's condition worsens, he begins having visions of mysterious guardians tasked with leading him to the great beyond.

  • Josh Lacy
    Director
    Troppo, Last king of the cross
  • Josh Lacy
    Writer
    Troppo, Last king of the cross
  • Mason Jay Lewis
    Writer
  • Michelle Walker
    Producer
  • Josh Lacy
    Key Cast
    "JAKE"
    Last king of the cross, Troppo
  • Izellah Connelly
    Key Cast
    "ABIGAIL"
    Rock Island Mysteries, Matilda,
  • Ron Smyck
    Key Cast
    "MILES"
    Godzilla x Kong, Troppo, Spider-Head, Fisk,
  • Bridgette Armstrong
    Key Cast
    "MAISY"
    ONE NIGHT paramount +
  • Tom Walker
    Key Cast
    "RIVER"
    DEBUT
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Dark fantasy, philosophical drama
  • Runtime:
    22 minutes 25 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    May 2, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    12,000 AUD
  • Country of Origin:
    Australia
  • Country of Filming:
    Australia
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    4:3
  • Film Color:
    Black & White
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • AACTA AWARDS
    Gold Coast
    Australia
    February 5, 2025
    BEST SHORT FILM
Director Biography - Josh Lacy

Josh Lacy is an AACTA nominated actor, writer and director who found success starring in the hit television series Troppo. He has since appeared in Last King of the Cross and has received an AACTA nomination for best short film set to take place in February 2025.

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Director Statement

AACTA nominated short film “Before we sleep” is my ode to brotherhood, the metaphysical and the afterlife as seen through my eyes.