Western Australia’s South West is taking the spotlight as filming begins for The Engagement Party, a new feature directed by local actor and WA Academy of Performing Arts graduate Dacre Montgomery. The project marks Montgomery’s debut as a director and is expected to inject around $3 million into the state’s economy.
Set between a beach house in the South West and locations in Perth, the film is described as a psychological thriller exploring the complex relationships between two couples and the themes that shape them—trauma, love, friendship and consent. The production has received support from the Western Australian Regional Screen Fund, Screenwest and Lotterywest.
Montgomery, known internationally for his roles in Stranger Things, Power Rangers and Elvis, returns to his home state to lead the project. He will also appear in the film alongside Lily Sullivan (Evil Dead Rise, Picnic at Hanging Rock), Abbey Lee (Black Rabbit, Mad Max: Fury Road) and Arlo Green (M3GAN, Nautilus).
The screenplay is written by Jory Anast, with producing credits shared between Virginia Whitwell, Nick Batzias, Ian Booth and Nash Edgerton. The production will employ around 95 local crew members, supporting WA’s creative sector while showcasing the region’s coastal settings on screen.
Creative Industries Minister Simone McGurk said Montgomery’s return to Western Australia is an encouraging moment for the local industry. She said his experience on international productions would inspire emerging creatives and strengthen WA’s growing film sector.
McGurk added that the production highlights the appeal of the state’s diverse filming locations and the government’s ongoing investment in creative industries as part of a broader effort to diversify the economy.
As The Engagement Party begins shooting, the project signals a confident chapter for Western Australian storytelling, combining homegrown talent, striking natural scenery and the collaborative energy of a thriving screen community.
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