In the new and unforgiving land of late Nineteenth Century New Zealand, one girl sets out to find her father. She is forced to fight the elements and those around her as she comes to terms with a harrowing loss. This is a journey that will shake her sense of loyalty and family to its core.

'Jess' is a coming of age story about one girl's journey as she comes to terms with the fallibility of her parents. Shot on location in the stunning Hawkes Bay region of New Zealand 'Jess' boasts an original score from up and coming composer Celeste Oram, which carries an otherwise silent film. This film draws on the beauty and cruelty of nature and family alike and develops a discussion on gender politics and loyalty, while capturing all the action and suspense of the Western Genre.

'JESS' IS GOING TO CANNES

Wild Boy’s first short film 'Jess' has just been accepted into the Short Film Corner of Cannes International Film Festival.

Huge congratulations and a warm thanks to all those involved in making 'Jess' happen. 

Written and Directed by Luke Thornborough

Music Composed by Celeste Oram

Cinematography by Lisa Fothergill

Starring

Amie Bentall as Jess

Matt Norton as Harry

Sarah James as Sarah

Lily Bentall as Young Jess

Camera Operators - Lisa Fothergill, Matt Kofoed, Chesney MacDonald

Gaffer - Matt Kofoed

Sound Recording and Foley - Chesney Macdonald, Grace Adams 

Artistic Director - Julie Clark

Makeup - Laura Mauchline 

Props - Julie Clark, Luke Thornborough, Ryan Dulieu

Production Assistant and Horse-Wrangler - Grace Adams, Alexandra McAlwee

Editor - Luke Thornborough

Colourist - Daniel Habedank

Special Effects - Ian Quigley 

Sound Design - Simon Weir

Music Design - Jess Haugh

Moral Support, Accommodation, Unit, Runners, Horse-Wrangler - Denise Bentall, Rachael Bentall, Steve Bentall

Poster Photography - Denise Bentall

Special thanks to Michael Nicholas, Ryan and Paul Dulieu, Arielle Sullivan, First Scene Ltd, Blacksand Post, and Howick Historical Village.