Bronte Pictures announces MS Australia partnership with Take My Hand

National release date set for August 29 
 

Bronte Pictures is delighted to announce a collaboration between MS Australia and the upcoming feature film, Take My Hand. The film will be distributed in Australia by Rialto Distribution, with its national theatrical release date set for August 29.

Starring Radha Mitchell, Adam Demos, and Bart Edwards, Take My Hand is a romantic drama inspired by the true story of writer/director John Raftopoulos and his wife Claire Jensz, who lives with multiple sclerosis (MS) and serves as the film's executive producer. The characters of Laura (Mitchell) and Michael (Demos) are based on Jensz and Raftopoulos.

The film follows Laura, an accomplished Australian woman living in London, who is diagnosed with MS at the peak of her career. After the sudden death of her husband and losing her job, she returns to Australia with her three sons. A chance reunion with a childhood sweetheart changes her life.

In honour of World MS Day on May 30 and the global 'Diagnosis' theme, the film's trailer will be launched on a dedicated microsite hosted by MS Australia. This site, found at takemyhandthemovie.com, will feature exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, cast and crew interviews, and a heartfelt message from executive producer Claire Jensz, whose MS journey is poignantly depicted in the film. The site will also offer pre-sale tickets for Q&A screenings scheduled for August 2024 across Australia.

With MS as a central theme, Take My Hand aims to raise awareness and understanding of the disease. MS is the most common chronic neurological condition affecting young adults, often diagnosed between ages 20 to 40, and is three times more prevalent in women than men. The disease occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks myelin, the fatty material around nerves, leading to varied symptoms as no two people experience MS the same way.

Rohan Greenland, CEO of MS Australia says, "MS Australia is excited to partner with Claire Jensz, John Raftopoulos, and the creative team behind Take My Hand. MS Australia recognises the film's profound portrayal of MS and its potential to spark meaningful awareness within the community."

Claire Jensz added, "John and I are so proud to be partnering with MS Australia and have our film acknowledged in this way.

"We set out to create a beautiful love story that everyone can relate to, but also what's important to me is that audiences see it as an inspirational awareness piece that provides more of an understanding of MS.

"By releasing our trailer on World MS Day, we hope to help MS Australia emphasise the importance of early diagnosis."

Says Blake Northfield, producer of Take My Hand and Managing Director of Bronte Pictures, "We are so thrilled to partner with MS Australia on this incredible film, based on Claire and John's true story. 

"MS Australia works tirelessly in their efforts to support research and raise awareness of this disease. Hopefully by partnering with them and through people seeing the film, we can help contribute to the cause!".

Radha Mitchell was drawn to the role by the screenplay's compelling originality and sincerity. She stated, "Aside from the script, which is really quite lovely, it's the kind of writing that you can't get through without shedding a tear because it touches the heartstrings.

"The story itself was inspiring to me. I was very interested to see a story that talks about MS in a positive way, embracing what it is. 

"Playing a romantic lead who, as a result of MS, has both a speech impediment and trouble walking, yet has learned how to live with the disease and is thriving, I found this really inspiring." 

Both Mitchell and Demos collaborated closely with the real-life couple to bring authenticity to their story. Mitchell added, "I was lucky to have Claire as a reference point and collaborator. And with John directing, he had a clear sense of how to tell the story, which helped me bring authenticity to the character. I'm honoured to be a part of it because it is so personal, and they are so open about it being their story."

The film also features Xavier Molyneux, making his feature film debut, and Meg Fraser. Former Neighbours star and singer Natalie Bassingthwaighte is also featured. Key production credits include Blake Northfield as producer, Wade Muller HKSC ACS as Director of Photography, Esther Rosenberg as Production Designer, Tracey Rose Sparke as Costume Designer, and Billie Weston as Hair and Make-Up Designer.

ENDS

For publicity inquiries please contact:

Erin Jameson - Jameson & Co 

e: erin(at)jamesonandco(dot)com

m: +61 419 323 663

SYNOPSIS

In Take My Hand, Radha Mitchell shines as Laura, a spirited woman whose journey weaves through love, loss, and resilience. Paired with Adam Demos as Michael, her steadfast high school sweetheart, and Bart Edwards as Jason, Laura's first husband, the film delves into the complexities of life, love, and multiple sclerosis (MS).

As Laura's dreams lead her from the lush Byron Bay hinterlands to the bustling streets of London, she finds herself confronted by unforeseen challenges. A diagnosis of MS shakes her world, challenging her career aspirations and straining her relationships. Yet, amidst the turmoil, Laura discovers unexpected sources of strength, including a rekindled connection with Michael, now a scout for the Australian Football League (AFL).

Take My Hand is more than a tale of love lost and found; it's a poignant exploration of hope, perseverance, and the enduring power of human connection. Inspired by the real-life experiences of Claire Jensz, an MS warrior and the film's executive producer, it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Directed by John Raftopoulos and brought to life by a talented cast and crew, including breakout stars Meg Fraser and Xavier Molyneux, Take My Hand promises to captivate audiences with its heartfelt narrative and compelling performances. With Radha Mitchell's luminous portrayal at its heart, this Bronte Pictures production invites viewers on a journey of love, courage, and the unbreakable bonds that sustain us through life's greatest challenges.

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