Synopsis

Wait For Me centres around two young people who forge a deep connection and take us on a journey which explores the complexities of substance use disorder and the devastating impact it has on relationships.

Director's Statement

There's often trepidation around talking about addiction and yet so many people are affected by it in one way or another, whether they know someone who is going through it or they’re going through it themselves. Globally, fewer than 20 per cent of people with substance use disorders are in treatment and one of the barriers is social stigma which can reduce the willingness of individuals to seek treatment. My aim in telling this story is to raise awareness and shine a light on the struggle with compassion and humanity so we can move towards ending the stigma and discrimination that make it less likely that those suffering with addiction will seek or get the help they need.

Wait For Me explores themes of love, acceptance, and the importance of connection. The support of others has had a huge impact on my own life and the powerful human need for connection is something we can all resonate with. It’s through the relationship between Cole and Lauren that we are shown how much love and acceptance can mean for someone in need. Love alone is not enough to get us through our struggles, but faith in love is a source of hope that gives meaning to life. It is Cole’s faith in love that gives him the hope to battle through his addiction.

There have been many depictions of people suffering from addiction that perhaps are cliche, and then there are films like Heaven Knows What or Candy that really capture that raw state of using and don’t shy away from the harsh reality of the subject matter. My story is told through a series of juxtaposing moments in time that emphasise the protagonist’s struggles, highlight the devastating effects of addiction, and represent the confusion and chaos within him.

We’ll be filming across Brisbane and the Gold Coast, and hand-held photography will feature heavily in order to imbue the shots with intimacy and enhance the naturalistic feel of the film, as well to reflect the characters’ emotional states.

My original music will support the mood of every scene; from light piano pieces to dark, dramatic works, the score will play a major part in telling this story.

- Jayden McGinlay