Sharmill Films has acquired the Australian and New Zealand rights to The Entertainment System is Down, the upcoming satirical film by Oscar-nominated and two-time Palme d’Or winner Ruben Östlund.

The darkly satirical project, which stars Kirsten Dunst, Daniel Brühl, and Keanu Reeves, is set on a long-haul flight between England and Australia where the entertainment system fails and passengers are forced to face the horror of being bored and our current addiction to screens.

The ensemble cast includes Nicholas Braun, Tobias Menzies, Connor Swindells, Lindsay Duncan, Allan Corduner, Sofia Tjelta Sydness, Erin Ainsworth, Myles Kamwendo, Elle Piper, Thibaud Dooms, Sanna Sundqvist, Tea Stjärne, and Swedish artist Benjamin Ingrosso. 

The cast also features Australian actors Daniel Webber, Wayne Blair, and Dan Wyllie.

Filming began in late January and will continue through the end of May, with principal photography primarily taking place on a studio set built around a real Boeing 747 acquired and fitted out for the production.

“Sharmill Films is thrilled to be working with Ruben Östlund again on our fourth feature together. One so uniquely tailored to the Australian and New Zealand market.

The long-haul plane trip is a particular experience for those traveling to Australia and New Zealand, and Östlund’s films have all distinctly resonated with local audiences. To have Kirsten Dunst, Daniel Brühl and Keanu Reeves aboard the film is set to be a lot of fun for audiences!

We’re also delighted to be partnering with another true independent Stan Originals on bringing original, major titles to our territory.”

Said Katharine Thornton CEO, Sharmill Films
and Natalie Miller AO Executive Director, Sharmill Films