Filming begins for Kangaroo at Alice Springs Kangaroo Sanctuary

A star-studded cast has descended on the Red Centre to appear alongside an unexpected form of local talent. Find out more.

A joey at the Alice Springs Kangaroo Sanctuary Picture: Tourism NT/Matt Glastonbury

Some of Australia’s biggest film stars will be descending on the Red Centre to film a new family comedy – and they’ll be starring alongside some extra special castmates.

Studiocanal’s Australian production arm Cultivator Films Australia has begun filming in Alice Springs for their latest outback romp Kangaroo.

Starring Ryan Corr, Ernie Dingo, Deborah Mailman, Wanye Blair and more, the star studded cast will also be sharing the screen with some local talent in form of kangaroo joeys from Alice Springs Kangaroo Sanctuary.

Ernie Dingo as Uncle Tadpole in the Opera Conference production of Bran Nue Dae Photo credit: Prudence Upton

The film is inspired by the story of Chris ‘Brolga’ Barns – the founder of the kangaroo sanctuary in Alice Springs – and will follow the escapades of Corr’s character Chris Masterman, and ex-TV personality.

When Masterman becomes stranded in an outback town on his way to Broome, he teams up with 11-year old Indigenous girl, Charlie.

The unlikely pair then start rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned joeys, forming a friendship along the way in an endeavour which proves to be life changing for them both.

Screen Australia chief operating officer Grainne Brunsdon said the film will captivate hearts worldwide.

“Set against the stunning backdrop of the Australian outback, this heartwarming tale promises to be a cinematic gem, showcasing the talent and creativity that Screen Australia is proud to support and promote globally,” she said.