South Australia’s screen industry has scored a major coup, with internationally acclaimed Hollywood producer E. Bennett Walsh officially joining the South Australian feature film VINES—his first independent Australian project in an already extraordinary global career.
With more than three decades across major studio blockbusters and prestige dramas, Walsh has been behind some of the world’s biggest titles, contributing to more than USD $3 billion in global box office. His recent credits include Mortal Kombat II for New Line Cinema / Warner Bros and the upcoming thriller Subversion, starring Chris Hemsworth and Lily James. Now, he’s turning his attention to a deeply South Australian story.
Set between the Adelaide Hills and the city, VINES explores the unraveling of a family bound by long-held tensions, unspoken desires and the quiet performances that hold people together. At its centre is Eliza, a once-promising filmmaker who has drifted from her creative compass. When she and her brother-in-law Ethan act on a connection neither expected, the choice sends shockwaves through marriages, siblings and the women around them—each forced into their own moment of truth. Emotional, intimate and rooted in the South Australian landscape, the film is shaping up as a standout local production.
Walsh says it was the humanity of the story that drew him in. “What struck me about VINES was the honesty of its characters and the emotional terrain they move through — it gives the story a distinct and compelling tone. Kahli’s writing is assured and deeply felt, and her passion for these people and this place is evident on every page. It’s a privilege to help bring a film of such clarity, heart and intention to life.”
He says the decision to join a South Australian project was an easy one. “South Australia has a unique filmmaking culture — collaborative, thoughtful and driven by genuine artistry. There is a distinct energy here that fuels ambitious, character-led stories in a way few regions can. Joining a South Australian project feels both creatively inspiring and deeply aligned with the kind of cinema I value.”
For writer-director Kahli Gaskin, having Walsh on board is a milestone. “Bennett understands the heart of VINES in such a genuine way. He sees the small moments as clearly as the big ones, and that’s everything to me as a storyteller. Having him on this journey is both reassuring and incredibly energising.”
She says his early contributions have already strengthened the project. “Working with Bennett already feels like a gift. He’s brought fresh eyes to the story without ever losing sight of what makes it personal. It’s rare to find someone who champions the emotional core of a film so wholeheartedly, especially at this stage.”
South Australian producer Isabelle Scott says Walsh’s involvement elevates every aspect of the film. “Having Bennett join us is a milestone for VINES and for South Australian independent filmmaking. His experience, generosity and steady guidance bring enormous strength to the project, and we’re deeply grateful for his belief in what we’re creating.”
She adds that his mentorship is already making an impact. “Bennett brings a level of insight that lifts every part of the process. His support reinforces our confidence in the story we’re telling and the team bringing it to life. It’s a privilege to collaborate with someone who values both the craft and the community behind this film.”
Beyond the production itself, Walsh’s presence marks a significant moment for South Australia’s thriving screen sector. His global experience offers rare access to international best practice, pathways for emerging talent and ongoing opportunities that strengthen the state’s screen ecosystem. With his long history across franchises such as Kill Bill, The Amazing Spider-Man, Meg 2 and Men in Black: International, he brings connections and expertise that will resonate well beyond this single project.
VINES is currently in development and is expected to begin production in 2026, with pre-production kicking off early in the Adelaide Hills. With Walsh, Scott and Gaskin at the helm—and South Australian storytelling at its core—this is one local project already generating global-level buzz.
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