Marli (short music based film)
My name is Robert and I'm a qualified social worker but also an independent filmmaker. I am making a film called "Marli" inspired by my experiences working for a drug and alcohol youth service, which has a music program.
Our story revolves around a teenage girl called Marli whose mother passes away from an overdose. As a result she is left to take care of her younger brother Lluka, who is swiftly taken from her care by social services.
As a result of Marli's trauma, she develops an issue with drugs. Due to the desire of trying to get her brother back, she works with a drug and alcohol youth service. In doing so she engages in a music program where we discover Marli has a talent for singing.
This story ultimately focuses on the impact trauma can have on someone, but also shows the potential that can be discovered with the correct guidance. We are hoping to inspire with this film, and showcase the talent that can be discovered in what may seem like the darkest of places.
We will be shooting our film at one of the local youth services which offers free recording sessions for young people on a daily basis. We want to empower young people who have experienced trauma, and raise awareness about mental health. Here are some pictures of where this support is offered.
One of the videos below features local artist Clauds, who recorded in this very music studio.
Original music will be used in our film showcasing the talent of young people, and is being recorded in the services that help young people thrive.
Meet Our Cast
Ani Karu aka ANI
ANI is an 18 year old singer/songwriter based in Perth who will be starring as Marli. She has also written and recorded original songs for this production. Below are some links to show how talented she is.
To check out more songs by ANI follow the links below.
Jordan Roberts
The extremely talented Jordan (who is only 4 years old) will be playing Marli's younger brother Lluka, with him being the main drive for Marli to overcome her obstacles.
Kat Ludley
Kat will be playing Marli's music mentor Zara, and will facilitate some of Marli's character growth. Kat is a talented actor, singer and dancer. She studied musical theatre at the Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).
All of the funds raised will go into making the best film we can, and anyone who donates will have their name in the closing credits of the film.
Please help us achieve our goals in making a film that will hopefully inspire many people to follow their dreams.
We would like to acknowledge that we are creating this work on Whadjuk Noongar Boodjar and we pay our respects to the traditional custodians of this land. We honour their continuing culture and the spiritual relationship they have to land, sea and sky. We recognise that sovereignty has never been ceded.
