Entertainment

Lilly Dennis – Making her mark as one of Hollywood and Broadway’s fresh new faces

Published

5 years ago

July 16, 2019

Recent years have seen the film industry a-buzz with captivating performances from some of the globe’s hottest young stars; from Emma Stone to Margot Robbie, Saiorse Ronan to Awkwafina, and obviously we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention Tom Holland.

And so, it comes as no shock that amongst the budding talent, Tasmania has its own offering to throw in the mix, in the form of Lilly Dennis.

Coming from the lone island of Tasmania, her first roles were starring in some of the most famed productions of all time from the age of 9 such as A Midsummer Nights Dream, The Wizard of OZ and Taming of the Shrew. Starting in theater, going to performing arts school throughout her childhood and then at the young age of 18 eventually being brought to Los Angeles on a full talent scholarship to attend The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, this young talent has taken the entertainment industry by storm. Having appeared in the series Good Job Thanks! Alongside famed comedy legend Sandy Martin, to starring in the Warner Brothers Film Still Here, to starring in the hit Award- Winning Broadway show Chocoholic – Lilly Dennis has indeed done it all.

“I think this is honestly the midst of the most exciting time in the entertainment industry,” Says Dennis, when asked about the new faces stepping into the spotlight and onto red carpets all over Hollywood. “I think it’s long overdue that we are seeing so many news faces step into the lime light and highlighting people of diversity and shattering stereotypes. There is still a long way to go but it’s an honor to be a part of what’s happening right now.”

And this young Australian is indeed a part of that, having worked with some of the biggest names in the industry such as starring in the film Dr. Phlill where she was directed by Nick Conroy who has directed big names such as Idina Menzel and Selena Gomez. To going back to Broadway this year in the biggest solo festival in the world with the play Chocoholic, which won Best Solo Show in the United Solo Awards last year.

It has also just been confirmed that Dennis will be starring in the new comedy series, set to shoot in 2020 called I Can’t Help You. The series is said to be directed by the famed British actor and director Ian Ogilvie. The series has been ordered for three seasons, all which will star the talented actress and will be produced by Halleloo Productions.

“I have played so many therapists at this point that I feel as though I may have found my calling,” laughs Dennis as she explains her upcoming role Felicity in I Can’t Help You on ABC radio. “but in all honesty, I’m so honored to get to work with such an incredible director and on such an amazing story that’s a comedy but also handles the relevant subject of mental health.”

This young actress is making waves in Hollywood and on Broadway and the entertainment industry is expecting to see a lot more of her in the future.

Entertainment

“The Firing Squad”: I Cried Buckets of Tears

Published

3 days ago

April 25, 2024

Jonathan Grilli

Sitting in the dimly lit theater, I had no idea what to expect as the opening credits of “The Firing Squad” began to roll. Little did I know that I was about to embark on an emotional journey that would leave me reaching for tissues and struggling to catch my breath.

The film follows the true story of three Christians facing execution by firing squad in a third world country. Directed by Timothy A. Chey, it features a stellar cast including James Barrington, Kevin Sorbo, and Cuba Gooding Jr. Each actor brings their character to life with such authenticity and depth that it’s impossible not to be fully immersed in their struggles and triumphs.

As the plot unfolded, I found myself drawn into a world of despair and desperation, but also one of unwavering faith and hope. The characters’ journey from darkness to light, from despair to redemption, resonated with me on a deeply personal level. I couldn’t help but be moved by their courage and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.

But it was the performances that truly stole the show. James Barrington’s portrayal of the protagonist’s internal turmoil was nothing short of mesmerizing, while Kevin Sorbo and Cuba Gooding Jr. delivered powerhouse performances that left me in awe.

And then there was the message of the film—that no matter how bleak the circumstances may seem, there is always hope. That even in our darkest moments, faith has the power to transform lives and bring about redemption. It was a message that hit me like a ton of bricks, leaving me with tears streaming down my face and a renewed sense of purpose.

As the credits rolled and the lights came up, I found myself struggling to put into words the impact that “The Firing Squad” had on me. All I could manage was, “I cried buckets of tears.” And I wasn’t alone. As I looked around the theater, I saw others wiping their eyes and exchanging emotional glances.

In the end, “The Firing Squad” wasn’t just a movie—it was an experience. An experience that left me feeling inspired, uplifted, and profoundly grateful for the power of cinema to touch the soul. And for that, I will be forever grateful.

The movie is set to premiere in the theatres worldwide on August 2, 2024. And this is definitely a must watch movie, reminding people of the strength of faith.