South Australian filmmaker Taryn Brumfitt is set to follow-up her break-out body-image documentary Embrace with new film Embrace Kids, with production investment from the South Australian Film Corporation (SAFC) and Screen Australia.

Focusing on the issue of childrens’ body image, Embrace Kids will be produced by South Australian producers Bonnie McBride (Demonic, Making a Mark) and Anna Vincent, co-producer of the the Adelaide Studios-shot Netflix sci-fi I Am Mother. Executive Producers are Australian comedian Celeste Barber, South Australian actor Teresa Palmer and Natasha Stott Despoja AO, Australia’s former Ambassador for Women and Girls.

Targeted at 8-12 year-olds, Embrace Kids will use Brumfitt’s distinctive filmmaking style to create an energising texture of animation, music, live action, interviews and more, guided by body image health professionals Dr Zali Yager (Associate Professor, Victoria University) and Dr Ivanka Prichard (Senior Lecturer, Flinders University).

“Kids weren’t born into the world hating their bodies, it’s a learned behaviour,” Brumfitt says.

“It’s alarming and heartbreaking that kids are being held back by how they feel about their bodies. Imagine giving kids the tools to move, nourish, respect and enjoy their bodies instead.”

Released in 2016, Brumfitt’s debut Embrace was a global sensation, screening in over 190 countries, earning five-star reviews and attracting praise from stars including Ashton Kutcher, Ricki Lake, Teresa Palmer and Olivia Newton-John for its powerful message of self-acceptance.

“In recent years I’ve been sent thousands of messages pleading with me to make a film like Embrace, but for kids,” Brumfitt says.

“I’m really excited to say all systems are go, and I can’t wait to bring the film to cinemas next year.”

South Australia’s KOJO Entertainment (Mortal Kombat, Top End Wedding, Hotel Mumbai) has been engaged to undertake post production on the documentary.

Embrace Kids is a Body Image Movement and SLA Films production, with principal production investment from Screen Australia in association with the SAFC. The film will be released in Australia and New Zealand by Transmission Films in 2022.

To find out more about SAFC production funding incentives click here.

Featured Image: Painted Desert, Coober Pedy, South Australia.

Find out more about: