Scales on Stan begins production in Queensland with star-studded cast — Stan has announced that its new original family feature film Scales has officially commenced production on the Queensland coast, bringing a magical modern mermaid story to Australian audiences.
The Stan Original film, produced in association with BYUtv, the Australian Children’s Television Foundation (ACTF) and Screen Australia, follows 12-year-old Mira, whose dream of joining the elite Silver Haven Mermaids synchronised swimming team takes an extraordinary turn after a secret wish changes her life forever.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of coastal Queensland, Scales explores themes of self-acceptance, friendship and finding the courage to embrace what makes you different.
A nostalgic return to the mermaid genre
Leading the cast is Lizzie Violet as Mira, joined by Alexander England (Black Snow), Morgana O’Reilly (The White Lotus), Katrina Milosevic (Population 11, Wentworth) and Melanie Vallejo (All Her Fault).
In a nostalgic nod for Australian audiences, H2O: Just Add Water star Cariba Heine returns to the mermaid genre in what Stan describes as a highly anticipated reunion with the world of aquatic fantasy.
The cast also features emerging Australian talent including Maddie Young, Francesca Catipon, Sebastian Sero and Noah Millhouse.
Bringing a magical story to life
The film has been created by Rachel Davis (Mustangs FC, Turn Up The Volume), written by Alix Beane (Surviving Summer, Mustangs FC) and directed by Kacie Anning (Class of ’07, Upload).
Nine Entertainment’s Executive Director of Entertainment Content Commissioning, Michael Healy, said the project represented the kind of storytelling that resonates with family audiences.
“Scales is exactly the kind of storytelling that brings families together, and we’re proud to work with the Australian Children’s Television Foundation on another charming, heartfelt production.
Capturing the warmth, humour, and coastal charm of contemporary Australia, Scales is guaranteed to captivate viewers of all generations and we’re excited for audiences to dive into this magical story.”
Creator and executive producer Rachel Davis said the production combines the emotional pull of a sports drama with the wonder of fantasy storytelling.
“Scales brings together the captivating worlds of mermaids and artistic swimming, combining the energy and emotion of a sports movie with some truly magical underwater storytelling.
We can’t wait to share this feelgood family film with audiences in Australia and around the world.”
ACTF Chief Executive Officer Jenny Buckland added:
“I cannot wait for audiences to see Scales. It is ambitious. It’s fun. And it takes the mermaid story in a whole new direction.”
Produced by Werner Film Productions, Scales is currently in production in Queensland and will stream exclusively on Stan following its completion.
Scales on Stan begins production in Queensland with star-studded cast
