Levi Miller in Before Dawn.

Before Dawn, the epic World War I feature film produced and filmed in Western Australia, has launched on Netflix, following a remarkable international run in cinemas and on streaming platforms. The film has received widespread critical acclaim, with European critics awarding it 4.5 and 5 stars, and has earned prestigious nominations and awards across the globe.

The film’s success extends beyond its grand premiere in Western Australia attended by over 1,500 guests—the largest premiere WA has ever seen and as seen on 7 News. At the European Film Awards, Before Dawn earned several major nominations, with announcements to occur in October.

The film also shone at the Septimius Awards; an international event known for celebrating cinematic innovation. Before Dawn was nominated for several awards alongside many other Hollywood films and won Best Makeup and Hairstyling, the Director accepted the award alongside screen icons such as Cuba Gooding Jr. and Janty Yates, the Oscar-winning costume designer for Gladiator. Additionally, Before Dawn was nominated alongside Kid Snow, another notable WA film, at the Septimius Awards.

In addition, the awards were a significant moment for Australian talent, with John Jarratt winning Best Actor. A memorable moment from the awards includes a picture of director Jordon Prince-Wright with John Jarrat and Jordon with Cuba Gooding Jnr, celebrating their shared success.

Before Dawn is the largest production film entirely in Western Australia. The production created 1,200 roles, including for veterans, cadets, and individuals from diverse backgrounds, with a strong focus on employment for those with disabilities and supporting charitable causes such as Telethon due to the director’s personal history with PMH.

Travis Jeffery in Before Dawn.

Before Dawn is an epic retelling of one of Australia’s most significant triumphs during WW1, based on authentic war diaries. Jim Collins, a young man from the outback, joins the ANZAC to fight on the western front with the hope of making a difference, leaving behind his family-run sheep station.

However, the muddy, ruthless, and unforgiving nature of the war begins to weigh heavily on Jim, leaving him with a profound sense of guilt. As the battalion dwindles, and hope fades, Jim’s redemption comes in a pivotal moment during one of Australia’s most significant battles. He must choose between risking his life or living with the weight of leaving another soldier behind.

The film also boasts a stellar cast, including Levi Miller (known for Marvel’s Kraken and A Wrinkle in Time), Ed Oxenbould (Paper Planes), Stephen Peacocke, Tim Franklin, and WA screen legend Myles Pollard. Their performances, combined with the film’s grand scale, have contributed to its impressive reception.

Following its success in Europe and the United States, Before Dawn is set to hit cinemas in Asia next month, expanding its global footprint.

Director Jordon Prince-Wright reflected on the film’s global success: “We are thrilled with the overwhelming response from both critics and audiences. The recognition at events like the European Film Awards and Septimius Awards, along with the extended releases in the U.S. and now Asia, is beyond anything we could have imagined. We’re incredibly excited to share Before Dawn with Netflix viewers.”

The Netflix release marks another major milestone for Before Dawn, offering a wider audience the chance to experience the breathtaking visuals, gripping storytelling, and the exceptional work of the Western Australian cast and crew.

Cinema Australia readers have been treated to an exclusive clip from the film which you can watch below.

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