The 2026 London Australian Film Festival continues with the UK premiere of

LIFE COULD BE A DREAM. 

Written by celebrated Australian author and screenwriter Courtney Collins (The Burial, Bird), and starring Maeve Dermody (Beautiful Kate, The Secret Garden) and brilliant newcomer Sonny McGee, this bold and powerful drama is the debut feature from filmmaker and artist Jasmin Tarasin.

In the brightness of an Australian summer, 40-year-old Sarah (Dermody) must confront the brutal truth that she's trapped in an abusive marriage and the romantic illusions that have sustained it. As the struggles of her 13-year-old son's adolescence begin to surface, she sees the escalating danger of staying – for both herself and her son (McGee). 

A sensitive exploration of a woman escaping coercive control and domestic abuse, LIFE COULD BE A DREAM transcends the usual definitions of such narratives, offering up a story about the complexity of reinvention and the gradual, difficult work of reclaiming a life on ones own terms. This is also a film about breaking cycles, and the intricate dance between a mother and son redefining their relationship, as she attempts to model strength while learning how much to hold on to and how much to let go.

We are hoping to welcome key members of the cast and crew for this event, with guests still to be confirmed. Also screening will be a short film from the Australian Film Television and Radio School.

The 2026 London Australian Film Festival runs from 16-19 July at Finsbury Park Picturehouse.

Aussie snacks, sweets & gifts will be on sale in the foyer throughout the festival, with a raffle taking place before every screening.