Backdrop preview Holding Achilles backdrop
Holding Achilles

Holding Achilles (2023)

Apr 08, 2023 2h 13m Drama Romance History

Set against the epic violence of the Trojan War, Holding Achilles by David Morton is a refreshing take on one of the ancient world’s best-known heroes, and his relationship with Patroclus, his not so well-known lover. As a young exile taken in by Achilles’ father, Patroclus faces hostility from the young hero until they are thrust together to train under the centaur Chiron, and the two form an unlikely friendship. As Achilles doggedly seeks to fulfil his mother’s prophecy to become a legend, their relationship becomes something more. But war with Troy is brewing, and the two young men find themselves caught between their hopes for a future together and the brutal realities of the world that faces them. Recorded by Pixelframe in partnership with Digital Stage made possible by QPAC.

Directed by David Morton

Cast

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Stephen Madsen

as Achilles

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Karl Richmond

as Patroclus

Ellen Bailey
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Ellen Bailey

as Ajax / Hector / Puppeteer (Baby Bear)

John Batchelor
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John Batchelor

as Odysseus

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Lauren Jackson

as Agamemnon / Lead Puppeteer (Bear)

Thomas Larkin
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Thomas Larkin

as Meneleus / Peleus

Nic Prior
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Nic Prior

as Chiron / Paris

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Christy Tran

as Briseis

Caroline Dunphy
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Caroline Dunphy

as Priam / Chryses

Montaigne
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Montaigne

as Thetis

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Johnas Liu

as Ensemble / Counterweight

Crew

Director
  • David Morton
  • Joshua Thomson

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Holding Achilles examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director David Morton brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2023, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Holding Achilles took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 133 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 159 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 2375 individual shots.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
  • The costume department created over 368 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 2023, when this film is released:
  • Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
  • Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: April 8, 2023
  • Runtime: 2h 13m

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