Cappu Films Takes International Sales on Australian Dramedy ‘Her Last Laugh’ at Busan

Cappu Films has secured international sales representation, excluding Australia and New Zealand, for “Her Last Laugh,” an Australian dramedy directed by Joy Hopwood. The completed feature is set to screen for buyers at the Busan International Film Festival’s Asian Contents & Film Market.

Starring Peter Thurnwald, known for “XO, Kitty,” and Ana Thu Nguyen, who appeared in “Mortal Kombat II,” the film also features Tiana Hogben, Kya Stewart, Lyanna Kea, Tony Goh, and John Waters. Hopwood handled writing, directing, and producing duties through her company, Joy House Productions.

The narrative follows Willow and Annika Lim, Chinese-Australian sisters who inherit their late mother’s casting agency under a strict condition: it must be profitable within twelve months or it will revert to their estranged uncle. As clients depart and a rival threatens their standing, the siblings race to preserve their income and their mother’s legacy.

Willow, a former teen star now working as a casting assistant, bears the primary burden of keeping the business afloat, while Annika temporarily sets aside her own ambitions. The discovery of family diaries and the emergence of a new romance prompt the sisters to reconsider what they truly value.

The project marks the sixth installment in Hopwood’s body of work exploring Chinese-Australian experiences and interpersonal dynamics. Her previous films include “It’s Our Time,” “The Gift That Gives,” “Get a Life Alright,” “Rhapsody of Love,” and “The Script of Life.”

“We are delighted to be represented by Cappu Films and excited about the opportunity to bring ‘Her Last Laugh’ to international audiences through mainstream streaming platforms, following our Australian theatrical release in November,” Hopwood said. She emphasized the importance of sharing culturally diverse stories that resonate globally, noting the cast and crew’s dedication to the film’s humor and heart.

Janice Woo of Cappu Films highlighted the movie’s warmth and its focus on sisterhood and legacy. “We look forward to introducing the film to buyers in Busan and working with Joy to reach audiences internationally,” she said.

Cappu Films is utilizing the Busan market to connect with distributors and potential partners, with territorial rights to be determined individually. The company’s broader lineup at the festival includes the Tony Leung Chiu-wai-led “Fox Hunt,” the Tribeca title “Ephemera,” the WWII spy series “Operation Doolittle,” the Slamdance selection “Banr,” the martial arts film “Lion Fist,” and the action comedy “Zombie Plane.”