PRESS RELEASE
The heart warming and poignant Australian film What About Sal? will continue its run around the country, with new showings announced in Hobart on 3 July, and further streaming release coming soon on Netflix.
Written and directed by acclaimed Australian actor and filmmaker John Jarratt, What About Sal? tells the story of Sal, a man in his 30s with Down Syndrome, who sets out to find the father he’s never known. With his mother terminally ill, Sal (played by Gerard O’Dwyer) learns his father (John Jarratt) was a rock singer from a fleeting encounter three decades earlier. Determined to connect with his roots, Sal’s journey is a powerful tale of love, resilience, and the human spirit.
This new round of screenings follows well received shows around the country, critical acclaim within Australia, and recognition at the Septimius Awards.
What About Sal received multiple nominations at the Septimius Awards last year, showcasing the film's exceptional quality and the talents of its cast and crew. John Jarratt was presented with the Best Actor Award at a ceremony held at the historic Tuschinski Theater in Amsterdam. Actors Gerard O'Dwyer and Kaarin Fairfax were nominated in the Best Actor and Actress categories, further highlighting the film’s strong performances.
Septimius Awards are renowned for celebrating international talent and have a history of recognising excellence in the global film industry.
Mr Jarratt said he was incredibly honoured to receive the award, and was extremely pleased to see his co-stars also receive nominations.
"Working on What About Sal has been a deeply fulfilling experience, and to see our work recognised on such a prestigious international platform is truly humbling,” Mr Jarratt said. “The exceptional performances by Kaarin Fairfax and Gerard O'Dwyer, and their unwavering dedication brought this story to life in the most remarkable way.”
Aside from its exploration of the importance of family and the human drive to overcome adversity, What About Sal is also a ground-breaking move for inclusivity and representation in the film industry with Gerard O'Dwyer, a talented actor with Down Syndrome, taking the lead role in the film.
Inspired by real-life encounters, What About Sal emphasises the urgent need for comprehensive support systems for individuals with Down Syndrome and their families.
"I was at the footy and I noticed this young exuberant Down Syndrome man in front of us," Mr Jarratt said. "Later I said to my mate, 'I wonder what would happen if his mother passed away and he had nobody?’ I immediately knew I had a film – and knew just the actor to be in it."
Gerard O'Dwyer's portrayal of Sal not only showcases his exceptional talent but serves as a powerful reminder that actors with disabilities deserve equal opportunities in the entertainment industry.
Mr O'Dwyer reaffirms that he is not defined by his condition, but by his talent and passion for acting, saying "I'm not a Down Syndrome actor - I'm an actor."
Tickets to the screening and Q&A session in Tasmania are available here.
What About Sal? is coming soon to Netflix.