Drummer for Australian expat alternative R&B, psych-trap band Chase Atlantic, Jesse Boyle is widening his creative scope to include his love of films.
Based in Los Angeles, Boyle is establishing his presence in Hollywood as a director, with LA-based management company Zero Gravity Management ('Ozarks', 'The Accountant') recently signing him.With two short films already on his resume: '(UN) Justify' and 'You Are The Ocean' (as director and writer of both), Jesse is currently working on two feature-length screenplays: 'Zero Gravity' is a project based on '(UN) Justify', and a sci-fi treatment.
"Absolutely stoked and honoured to be officially joining the ranks of Zero Gravity Management for my directing and writing," shares Boyle.
"Being repped by such an incredible company behind productions like 'Ozark', 'The Accountant', 'Marksman' and more is a dream and I can't wait to share what we've been working on."
With Chase Atlantic recently playing Lollapalooza after a massive stadium concerts in Mexico and Brazil, and ahead of their performances at Reading & Leeds Festivals in August, here Jesse shares his five favourite Australian movies.
1: 'The Stranger' (2022)
I'm very drawn to dark elements in film that give a honest and human element to its characters in subtle ways.'The Stranger' does this exceptionally well. Intertwined with its dark subject matter and plot, the performances from Joel Edgerton and Sean Harris are amazing. The emotions and intentions that bubble underneath – you can't help but be drawn into the characters that they play.
The cinematography from Sam Chaplin is incredible to say the least. The colour palette and composition of each frame is impeccable, and the choices made from Sam and director Tom Wright really highlight that each shot choice is specifically story-driven. You could remove the dialogue and the frame would tell you the story itself if you wanted to.
The score is also one of my favourite to come out of Australia as of late. Oliver Coates really hones in on the subtext of the story and the emotion of each scene. It's beautifully written and constructed and a lot of the tracks are on my every-day listening list.
2: 'Lion' (2016)
What's not to like about this movie?! Its compelling true story of an extremely brave Saroo is amazing in of itself. Dev Patel plays the part of a lost man incredibly well and really gives the character justice.Greig Fraser's cinematography for the movie is also something to behold. His work is undeniable and has every right to be regarded as one of the most compelling cinematographers in the world to date.
'Lion', although shot back in 2016, is no exception to his illustrious body of work. It perfectly captures this emotionally-driven drama. It made me sob like a baby!
3: 'Sweet Country' (2017)
'Sweet Country' is a sincere piece of filmmaking with some remarkable performances. Warwick Thornton possess both the shocking cruelty and haunting beauty of this outback western.It's an enthralling watch with all the performances and cinematography to match. This movie is a must watch for all, especially Australians.
4: 'Kenny' (2006)
What's not to love about Kenny? I feel like most Australians will agree that it's the perfect Aussie film. The mockumentary follows this loveable character in a really well-grounded and sincere pursuit. Everyone wants Kenny to win.I remember watching this at a young age with my mum and it still fills me with nostalgia and a smile every time I think back to it. I might have to watch it again tonight.
5: 'Mad Max Fury Road' (2015)
Although featuring many Americans, I feel Aussies can still claim this one. It's such a fun watch.George Miller delivered a masterstroke of filmmaking with this beloved movie. John Seale's cinematography hits a whole other level. It's hard to compare this style to any other big action flicks out there at the moment.
Of course, the performances are amazing with the incredible Tom Hardy and Charlize Theron accompanied with Australian actors Courtney Eaton, Hugh Keays-Bryne and Nathan Jones.
It's a great watch with amazing filmmaking and I can't wait for George Miller's next instalment 'Furiosa' to come out.
