Squid (Runt) and in Lily LaTorre in Runt.

STUDIOCANAL has dropped the first trailer for the highly-anticipated film, Runt.

Runt, based on Craig Silvey’s best-selling novel is a delightful Australian family film that blends heartfelt moments with humour. The story revolves around eleven-year-old Annie Shearer and her best friend, Runt, an adopted stray, filmed right here in WA!

The live action feature is adapted for the screen by its West Australian author Craig Silvey. Directed by multi award winning Director John Sheedy (H is for Happiness) and produced by See Pictures’ Jamie Hilton (June Again, Breath).

Runt brings together an all-star Australian cast including Jai Courtney, Celeste Barber, Deborah Mailman, Matt Day and Jack Thompson. Leading the picture are two new stars, nine-year-old Lily LaTorre who plays the story’s hero Annie Shearer, and rescue dog Squid in the title role of Runt (pictured).

“I am so proud of this beautiful, uplifting film. Our stellar cast and talented team have perfectly captured the heart and humour of the book, and I can’t wait to share RUNT with audiences of all ages throughout Australia,” says Craig Silvey.

The novel Runt was released in 2022 and has achieved significant acclaim, winning several major Australian literary awards. These accolades include the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s Book of the Year for Young Readers, Book of the Year for Younger Children at the Australian Book Industry Awards, and the overall Book of the Year at the Australian Indie Book Awards. The success of the book underscores its broad appeal and the resonance of its themes with readers.

Runt was shot in WA in York and Perth in 2023.

Runt is in cinemas from September 19.

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