Lemon Tree Passage, an Australian supernatural thriller inspired by an urban legend, will open in a limited number of cinemas on October 31, tying in with Halloween.
Produced by Jeremy Ervine and directed and co-written by David Campbell, the plot follows three American backpackers who learn about the ghost of a motorcyclist that stalks young motorists and encounter something far more evil.
The cast is headed by Jessica Tovey (Wonderland, Tracks), Pippa Black (Law & Order: Special Victims Unit), Nicholas Gunn (The Hunters Club, Neighbours), Tim Phillipps (TV’s Chopper, The Secret Circle), Tim Pocock (Dance Academy) and Andrew Ryan (Not Suitable for Children, Tomorrow, When the War Began).
Campbell and Erica Brien wrote the screenplay after he saw a segment aired on Today Tonight in 2010 dealing with teenagers who were caught speeding in Lemon Tree Passage Road in Port Stephens and told the cops they saw a ghostly light.
A YouTube video of the sighting has been viewed nearly 350,000 times and some locals believe it’s the spirit of a motorcyclist who was killed on the road.
Odin’s Eye Entertainment is releasing the film in about six cinemas with a view to expanding, and handling worldwide sales. The Adelaide-shot film will be released on home entertainment by Universal Pictures Australasia on December 18.
“Initial reaction around the world to the trailer for Lemon Tree Passage has been incredible and we are looking forward to these Australian event screenings,” said Odin’s Eye Entertainment CEO Michael Favelle, who sold the film to the Middle East, Malaysia, India and Vietnam, with major territories in discussion.