Experiencing Interruptions?

Garden Whispers

Helen tries to navigate the loss of her parents while adjusting to life with her Aunt Myrtle

  • Zoe J Tomlinson
    Director
  • Zoe J Tomlinson
    Writer
  • Amber Gerards
    Producer
  • McKinley Markham
    Key Cast
    "Helen"
  • Shylie Arzouan
    Key Cast
    "Myrtle"
  • Ziva Batchelor
    Key Cast
    "Younger Helen"
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Coming of age, Drama, Student, Experimental
  • Runtime:
    8 minutes 11 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    November 14, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    1,000 AUD
  • Country of Origin:
    Australia
  • Country of Filming:
    Australia
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    RED
  • Aspect Ratio:
    1.85:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Swinburne University of Technology
Director Biography - Zoe J Tomlinson

I have a background in visual art and had no idea what was involved in the film industry until I joined Swinburne's film course. Since I was small I've loved stories and how they can convey emotion. From the music through to the visual composition so much can emphasise grief or joy when pieced together well. I would love to make films that can bring out intriguing thoughts and deep emotions in audiences.

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Director Statement

This film is intended as a letter to my younger self, my siblings and anyone else who has dealt with loss or strong. I want to use a poetic style, incorporating my skills as a visual artist to approach this piece like I would a painting.

In addition, all my crew come from creative backgrounds in addition to film making, so together we would all bring new perspectives to the project.

This piece includes a character dealing with massive and traumatic change as a child, versus her aunt who is dealing with the same situation from an adult perspective. Alongside them is a child trickster spirit guiding them to actually facing their new future and their grief by letting go of the past.