Premium Content:

New ABC film will show Australia's fight for gay rights

Screen Australia and the ABC have announced production of a new film that will chart Australia’s first steps towards gay liberation.

- Advertisement -

Riot will focus on homophobia in Australia in the 1970s and the events that led to the first Mardi Gras march in 1978.

The film will be directed by Jeffrey Walker, and focus on the real-life journey of Lance Gowland.

Actor Damon Herriman (pictured) will portray Gowland who was a significant figure in the Gay Liberation committees and the Campaign Against Moral Persecution (CAMP) in the 1970s, and beyond.

Herriman is best known for his roles in the TV series Justified, Love My Way and Laid. in 2016 he recieved the Best Supporting Actor Award at the AACTA’s for playing transgender character Kim Gordon in the mini-series Secret City. 

Sally Riley, Head of Scripted Production at ABC, said the film would show how Australia’s gay community found its voice.

“It could never be more relevant than now to tell this story of identity, courage and love as a marginalised community finds its voice and rises up to fight oppression and injustice.

“With a cast as extraordinary as this, Riot promises to be a stirring, landmark television event in time for the 40th anniversary of the birth of Mardi Gras.”

The film will screen in 2018 ahead of Mardi Gras’ 40th Birthday celebrations.


Support OUTinPerth

Thanks for reading OUTinPerth. We can only create LGBTIQA+ focused media with your help.

If you can help support our work, please consider assisting us through a one-off contribution to our GoFundMe campaign, or a regular contribution through our Patreon appeal.

Become a Supporter→     Make a contribution→ 

 

Latest

Former WA Governor Malcolm McCusker to lead inquiry into election

Premier Roger Cook said today that there was no question over who won each seat at the election.

Local legend Ivan King to share his reflections

The much loved local actor and theatre historian has some stories to tell.

‘Thirst’ will be Yirra Yaakin’s first production for 2025

The world premiere of the new play is on 29th April.

Film star Val Kilmer dead at 65

The actor was one of the biggest stars of the 1980s and 1990s.

Newsletter

Don't miss

Former WA Governor Malcolm McCusker to lead inquiry into election

Premier Roger Cook said today that there was no question over who won each seat at the election.

Local legend Ivan King to share his reflections

The much loved local actor and theatre historian has some stories to tell.

‘Thirst’ will be Yirra Yaakin’s first production for 2025

The world premiere of the new play is on 29th April.

Film star Val Kilmer dead at 65

The actor was one of the biggest stars of the 1980s and 1990s.

British comedian Jimmy Carr to play RAC Arena

The British comedian is playing stacks of shows across Australia.

Former WA Governor Malcolm McCusker to lead inquiry into election

Premier Roger Cook said today that there was no question over who won each seat at the election.

Local legend Ivan King to share his reflections

The much loved local actor and theatre historian has some stories to tell.

‘Thirst’ will be Yirra Yaakin’s first production for 2025

The world premiere of the new play is on 29th April.