DRY WINTER
In the story of a young couple at the end of their relationship, Dry Winter takes an unconventional approach to filmmaking by combining a written script with the performances of non-actors and levels of documentary improvisation. This approach was inspired by the films of Roberto Minervini and Melbourne's Amiel Courtin Wilson, who both create unique hybrid films that utilise non-actors. The film was shot in the regional town of Cowell, South Australia, a majorly underrepresented part of the Eyre Peninsula.
Shot in regional South Australia with a cast of non-actors, a first time group of feature filmmakers presents Dry Winter. Following the life of a young couple in a small town, the slow journey dives into their partying and working lifestyle, and the sprawling landscape that separates them.
THE COWELL TOWNSHIP
Situated on the Lincoln Highway in between Whyalla and Port Lincoln, approximately 500 kms from Adelaide, Cowell is a coastal South Australian town with a population of just under 1000. Dominant industries in and around the town include the farming of crop, livestock, and a large number of oyster leases within its harbour. The town has been hit hard this year by the recent drought, with many calling this winter the driest on record. Consequently, farmers growing crop and running livestock have faced hardships throughout the dry season. As a crew we were drawn to the town as a location due to its wide variety of picturesque inland and coastal landscapes. We were also very grateful for the town's incredible generosity, with many people allowing us to film in their businesses and on private properties.