E. Bennett Walsh Joins South Australian Feature VINES in His Independent Australian Debut

E. Bennett Walsh Joins VINES

Renowned Hollywood Producer E. Bennett Walsh Joins South Australian Feature VINES, Marking His Independent Australian Debut

Sunup Film is thrilled to announce that internationally acclaimed Hollywood producer E. Bennett Walsh has joined the South Australian feature film VINES as Producer — a milestone that marks his independent Australian debut and brings extraordinary global experience to the project. Over his three-decade career, Walsh has contributed to more than USD $3 billion in worldwide box-office earnings, shaping some of the most recognisable films of the past twenty years.

Walsh’s recent work includes producing Mortal Kombat II for New Line Cinema / Warner Bros (now in post-production) and serving as Executive Producer on Subversion, the high-stakes new thriller starring Chris Hemsworth and Lily James currently filming in Queensland. His broader credits span a remarkable range — from The Kite Runner and Disturbia to The Amazing Spider-Man 2, Meg 2: The Trench, and Quentin Tarantino’s iconic Kill Bill films.

A South Australian Story with Global Creative Strength

Set between the Adelaide Hills and the city, VINES follows Eliza, a once-promising filmmaker who has lost her creative and emotional footing. When she and her brother-in-law Ethan act on a connection they never expected, the fallout forces the entire family to confront long-held resentments, fractured marriages and the quiet performances that hold them all together. As the truth surfaces, the women around them face their own reckonings with identity, desire and consequence.

At its heart, VINES is an intimate and emotional contemporary drama — one shaped deeply by South Australian landscape, sensibility and storytelling.

The film is written and directed by Kahli Gaskin, a South Australian creative whose artistic work spans film, literature and music. Beginning her career as a songwriter, Gaskin moved into filmmaking with a slate of short-form and commercial work, with her early documentary Moment in Time (1998) broadcast nationally.

Why Walsh Joined the Project

Walsh describes being struck by the authenticity, clarity and emotional depth of the script:

“What struck me about VINES was the honesty of its characters and the emotional terrain they move through — it gives the story a distinct and compelling tone. Kahli’s writing is assured and deeply felt… It’s a privilege to help bring a film of such clarity, heart and intention to life.”
— E. Bennett Walsh

He also points to the unique creative culture in South Australia:

“South Australia has a unique filmmaking culture — collaborative, thoughtful and driven by genuine artistry. There is a distinct energy here that fuels ambitious, character-led stories in a way few regions can.”
— E. Bennett Walsh

Writer-director Kahli Gaskin echoes this sense of alignment:

“Bennett understands the heart of VINES in such a genuine way… Working with him already feels like a gift.”
— Kahli Gaskin

Producer Isabelle Scott adds:

“Having Bennett join us is a milestone for VINES and for South Australian independent filmmaking… His support reinforces our confidence in the story we’re telling and the team bringing it to life.”
— Isabelle Scott

A Boost for South Australia’s Screen Industry

The arrival of VINES strengthens South Australia’s growing position as a leader in bold, character-driven filmmaking. The project will generate local employment, support emerging talent and continue the state’s reputation for producing work with artistic ambition and regional authenticity.

Walsh’s involvement also brings significant mentorship opportunities for South Australian crew, offering access to global-standard production processes and strengthening long-term career pathways across the state. On a national level, his participation signals confidence in Australia’s independent filmmaking ecosystem and helps bridge local stories with international markets.

Looking Ahead

VINES is currently in development, with pre-production scheduled to begin in 2026 in the Adelaide Hills ahead of a 2026 shoot. As the project progresses, Sunup Film will be announcing further creative attachments and opportunities for collaboration.

A full media kit — including high-resolution images, bios and key project materials — is available at film.sunupworkshop.com/media.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Isabelle Scott
Producer, Sunup Film
E: isabelle@sunupworkshop.com
P: 0430 330 513

For more information:

Please Contact Us

Kahli Gaskin, Writer & Director of VINES

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