Embankment Films and Night Train Media have revealed a first image of Sunny Dancer which is currently shooting in Scotland. The sophomore feature from director and writer George Jaques (Black Dog) has pre-sold to all of Europe and Latin America, with True Brit Entertainment taking UK and Irish rights ahead of its 2026 theatrical release.
The project is produced by Ken Petrie of 27 Ten (Black Dog, Enemy Within) and George Jaques for Athenaeum Productions and in association with Night Train Media financing and holding world-wide rights. Screen Scotland and TPC provide finance.
The movie stars Bella Ramsey (The Last Of Us), Daniel Quinn Toye (Voltron), Jessica Gunning (Baby Reindeer), James Norton (Joy) Neil Patrick Harris (Gone Girl) and Ruby Stokes (Bridgerton).
The ensemble cast also includes Earl Cave (Days of the Bagnold Summer), newcomer Jasmine Elcock, Conrad Khan (County Lines), Shalom Brune-Franklin (Dune: Prophecy), Josie Walker (Kneecap) and Louis Gaunt (Bridgerton).
Sunny Dancer shares the story of Ivy (Ramsey), who is less than thrilled when forced to attend a summer camp for young people affected by cancer. Ivy is in her own hard-earned remission, and her late-teen skepticism considers “Chemo Camp” as both “Cringe!” and “Icky!”. But, actually, Sunny Dancer turns out to be all about turning the “Hard Pass” into the very best moments of life with love, true friendship, and humour.
Executive Producer Herbert L. Kloiber of Night Train Media said: "We have been captivated by George's emotional, whip-smart, and fundamentally feel-good storytelling. The cast has assembled for a celebration of joyous optimism, and George is acutely assured as a director."
Producer, Ken Petrie, said: "The chemistry among our brilliant young cast is remarkable—their on-screen connection continues seamlessly throughout early morning cast calls, lunch breaks and long after we wrap for the evening. What you'll see in-camera is a reflection of authentic friendship."
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Image credit: Embankment Films and Night Train Media