Maria Angelico

Watch this space more coming soon

Watch this space more coming soon...

Leah de Niese

Chrystal is a shallow, superficial little girl whose aim in life is to look good... a "Crunchie".

With dark hair, dark eyes and an olive complexion, the last role I ever thought I would play is that of a dumb blonde! I was quickly informed, however, that such girls do exist, and they go by the name of “CRUNCHIES”. Like the chocolate bar, they are dark on the outside but blonde on the inside!

And so began the development of ‘Chrystal’. She is obsessed with fashionable clothes and jewellery and all of the attention that goes with it. Her favourite pastime is to say nasty things about others in order to make herself feel better. What is different about Chrystal is that faint streak of innocence and naiveté that suggests she does not fully appreciate the outcome of her actions. In short, Chrystal is as lost and confused as all of the other kids in 9C.

In 2001 I played the complete opposite of Chrystal, in the children’s tv series, “Short Cuts”. In the ‘Short Cuts’ classroom I played class loser, ‘Ruth Hartnell’, who was obsessed with being neat and having everything in perfect order. My most recent role was on an episode of “Stingers” in which I had my tongue cut out! Other credits include ‘Toya’ in the web-based kids series, “Noah & Saskia”, the ever-eventful “Neighbours” in which I played master manipulator, ‘Larissa Callwell’ and “Blue Heelers”, which saw me as rebellious teenager, ‘Kimberley Dyson’.

As a 21-year-old dag, it was loads of fun to play the role of a 15-year-old fashion victim. As an actor of 14 years experience, the role of the ‘crunchie’ is certainly a first and one that shall remain with me forever… I now have an excuse when I use white-out on the computer screen!

Ooodles of thanks to all involved… it was dynamic!

xo Leah

PS. For those of you unfamiliar with UK and Australian confectionary, a "Crunchie" is a chocolate bar with a light honeycomb centre!

Noosha D’Cruze

Since the age of 4 people have been calling me a Drama Queen and I never really knew what they meant until I met the character of Nicole... now she is the definition of drama queen!!!

Hi everyone! Hating Alison Ashley...what an unforgettable experience! I never believed I would be involved in something and instantly know that this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. Acting is contagious!

Hating Alison Ashley was my first experience with the film industry but I have always had a love of drama, being involved in school plays, concerts and directing school films. When I walked into the auditions for Hating Alison Ashley, my very first audition ever, I was so nervous. Such talented people surrounded me that I thought I had absolutely no hope but as they say ‘Never stop trying’ so I went in there and acted my little heart out! I thought I would walk away with an extra role and I was so happy with that.

When I got a call a few weeks later saying that I was the character of Nicole, I was speechless. How could it be, I mean...I’m Noosha!? Things like this only happen to other people...not me!? I was shocked but on top of the moon.

The cast...what can I say - what a fabulous bunch of people. The memories I have of filming the movie are nothing without them. Everyone got along so well that it was hard to believe we were all complete strangers. I have developed some very close relationships through the movie and I’m extremely grateful for that chance, they’re all amazing. Meeting Delta, Craig McLachlan, Jean Kittson and other well-known faces was also an amazing experience. They are such humble, kind and talented people, it was great to meet them and watch them work.

I just want to thank HAA for giving me the chance of a lifetime and one that will hopefully start a long and rewarding career...one that I’ve always dreamed of. I want to thank my mum, Glynis, for all her support and encouragement and all those 3am trips to location with a big smile on her face :) I couldn’t have done it without her.

Lastly, I want to encourage everyone to always strive to make their dream come true. Nothing is impossible; you will never really lose until you quit trying. Great things happen to everyone you just have to be patient and stay true to yourself.

Stay real,

Noosha D’Cruze - ‘Nicole’ xoxoxoxox

Andre Devanny

Watch this space more coming soon

Watch this space more coming soon...

Brook Tomlinson

My character Vicky could pretty much be summed up as tarty...

... and a bit of a snob.

This was the exact reason why I loved playing her. She was a completely different person from what I am in real life. You can very often catch Vicky in eye catching, funky outfits and a bit of a flirt with the boys. She can’t get enough of them!

When I was a youngster my two older sisters and I were always putting on plays and performances for my relatives but it wasn’t until I was thirteen that I really decided to do something about it.

I began singing and dancing and have continued doing that for five years in which I am now a part time singing teacher for children. In my spare time I am also putting all my effort into a four piece rock girl group, Valhalla. My inspiration would have to be my singing teacher Andrea. If it wasn’t for the confidence and persistence she brought out in me, I would not be where I am today.

Being on the set of ‘Hating Alison Ashley,’ was an out of this world experience. It was an amazing to see what goes on behind the scenes and how a movie is created. The chemistry on the set between the cast and the crew was so relaxed and laid back. Not only did I come out of there with experience, I came out of there with what I am sure will be life long friends.
The things that you learn from watching your fellow actors perform is truly inspiring.

Delta Goodrem and Saskia Burmeister were so friendly, professional and very clever at what they do and it was a great energy to be around all that.

As for 9c. Well, we were the naughtiest bunch around. On and off screen. The cast and crew were constantly telling us to keep our voices down and to be quiet. Now that I look back on it, I can only laugh and smile at the fun and unforgettable times we had. We weren’t always bad, I think we were all just a little excited to be on a real life film set. Something that I am sure we have all been dreaming about for a long time.

I am just ecstatic and over the moon that something this life changing has happened to me. Being part of a project this special is something that will live with me forever. I have no doubt that the movie will come out just as well as what it felt behind the scenes.
Hope you all have as much fun watching it as we did making it for you all.

Brooke Tomlinson

Rachel Tan

I played the character ‘Sarah’. She’s a bit of a sports nut and is always wearing the latest in sports fashion...

Mind you Sarah’s not particularly any good at sport, but she likes to think that she is the best at every sport!

Milena Bennett played my best friend in the film, ‘Viva’. You would rarely see us apart on and off screen.

!

If I only had one word to describe my experience on “Hating Alison Ashley”, it would have to be ‘inspired’. Everyday on set was a new and exciting experience.

I learnt so much just by working with the most talented actors in the Australian entertainment industry. And of course, it was a pleasure to work alongside Delta Goodrem and Saskia, who are both such gorgeous and talented girls.

I have always loved performing, yet it’s taken me years to build up the confidence and realise my passion to succeed in the dramatic arts.

My very first high school production “BIG! The musical”, I got the role of ‘Katie’. I remember that feeling I got every night after the performance – it was amazing! That was the beginning of many more high school productions….Even now, two years after finishing school I’m only at the start of my professional acting career. I’ve had roles in Scooter Secret Agent and Blue Heelers, but this is my first role in a feature film.

The class of 9C definitely formed a close bond while filming-I still keep in contact with my friends from the cast.

I think most actors can relate to that feeling of satisfaction that comes from deep down, when you know you’ve been a part of something truly special. And I can say with no doubt that being a part of the Hating Alison Ashley cast was something truly special. I hope that you all get as much enjoyment out of the film as I did working on it.

Rachel xx

Mark Benedicto

“Hating Alison Ashley” gave me the opportunity to meet the most inspirational people ever...

Ever since I was young, I’ve always been attracted to the entertainment field. My cousins and I would make our own home movie with one HUGE camera. Yep, the crazy times.

“Hating Alison Ashley” gave me the opportunity to meet the most inspirational people ever. Being a part of 9C- Man, what an experience! They’re all great. It was the most funniest and enjoyable time ever!

We were such a riot! There was never a dull moment on set because we were all trying to have fun. (And getting into trouble for that matter)

Director Geoff Bennet was such an inspiration with his easygoing approach to 9C. As well as his hard work behind the camera in any type of weather. The cast was unstoppable!

Delta Goodrem was also very cool; she was very humble and greeted everyone with a big smile. She treated everyone with great respect and kindness. It was a true privilege to have worked with her.

Before “Hating Alison Ashley” I had enjoyed the experience of being in Neighbours, Scooter The Secret Agent and Wicked Science. It was here I had experienced the entertainment industry and I wanted more out of it!

Acting is great, but my first love has and will always be R&B music and singing. Ever since I was 4, I’ve been performing, dancing and singing and I’ll never stop. I write my own songs, learning the piano and I am now currently working on my first promotional single and hoping it really gets out there. I also love hip-hop dancing with my group ‘X-aLT’

These arts have moulded me into what I’ve become- an entertainer. “Hating Alison Ashley” had given me the opportunity to learn off the most inspiring people ever. I am greatly humbled and grateful for the experience.

I’d like to thank my family for their continuos support. They have been always encouraging me from the start and helped me turn my dreams into actions.

I am glad that I’m doing what I love doing. And I’ll never stop. People should NEVER back down to what they love to do. Let that be a lesson for all of you!

Hope you enjoy the movie!!!!

Peace,

Mark Benedicto A.K.A- Macky, Muzza!!

Fabio Motta

I am in love...

...not with a human or an animal but an art. It excites me and allows my life to be full of Joy. This art is ACTING !

I first met my love at the age of five while I was intensively watching the romantic movie of “Dr. Zivago”. It was five hours long! When it ended I asked my father what it was all about and if it was a true story.

He, who was impressed that a five year old could watch such a long and complicated movie, sincerely replied:...

“ Fabio, they are only actors who bring a story to life and make their characters look real to engage the audience into another world…”. Those magical words and that confusing movie led me to evolve with time a great love for acting.

I am extremely honored to be part of Hating Alison Ashley. It is my very first professional experience and my very first audition. Before this movie I took part in high school musicals and had various roles in theater companies.

Working with Delta Goodrem was great ! She is a sweet girl full of life, and I couldn’t help smiling kindly at her every time she walked passed or when we talked. Our director Jeff Bennett was the most calm and focused man I have ever met; very friendly and affectionate who allowed me to feel and be “Oscar”. I learnt so much from the more experienced actors in the movie such as: Holly Myers, the hilarious and charming Craig McLachlan and Jean Kittson.

I have made many friends on set who I still keep in touch with! What can I say the over all experience? It was amazing and the cast was extremely talented ! I can’t wait for Hating Alison Ashley 2!

Jonathan Burton

Hi, my name is Jonathan Burton and I play Chook in the movie...

I had a really fantastic time working on the set and was sad when we finished filming.

Meeting and working with Delta Goodrem was a great privilege – she is such an amazing person with an incredible spirit and was very gracious towards the rest of the cast and also to the local kids who watched some of the filming at Sunshine College. It was also good to meet and work with Saskia.

Working with the rest of the cast and crew was like being part of a big family and I made some good friends.

My first acting experience was when I was four years old and was involved in a promotion for a dinosaur exhibition in Toronto. Since then I have had a passion for acting and took classes for a number of years. I have had parts in various productions including major guest roles in Blue Heelers and Stingers, as well as doing a few commercials. However, Hating Alison Ashley was my first movie.

I am also interested in what happens behind the camera and am specializing in media arts in my final two years at senior school. I recently helped to produce security awareness videos for a local university, including filming and editing and have also been involved in videoing classes at school for use in distance education.

In addition to the above, my interests are skateboarding and music. I endeavour to play the guitar and I am also working on my third skate board video with a number of friends.

Hating Alison Ashley was a wonderful experience and I learnt a great deal, especially from Geoff Bennett’s direction. I hope that there will be opportunities in the future to work with at least some of the Alison Ashley cast again.

I hope that you enjoy seeing the move as much as we enjoyed making it!! :-)

Milena Bennett

... Hey everyone I’m Milena!

I play the role of Viva who is best friends with Sarah (played by Rachel Tan). Both of our characters love sport but we’re not all that great at it, although we think we are!

Originally I was interested in playing the character Margeart. She’s quirky and different so I thought it would be a bit of a challenge. But I am really glad that I got the part of Viva instead because I formed a very close friendship with Rachel and the very talented Katie Fitchett played Margeart much better than I could ever have done!!

Nicco Lathouris was in charge of the auditions – which over 60 talented people attended. He is a great teacher as well as a good man, who taught me so much in such a short period of time.

I have been interested in acting ever since I knew what an actor was. It’s always been a part of who I am. My Dad is a director and my Mum used to be involved in theatre so film, television and acting has been part of my life from day one. I’ve been playing the piano for 8 years and love photography, I rarely go anywhere without a camera.

In year seven I did the play of Hating Alison Ashley and I was the character Valjoy, I never imagined it would become a movie let alone I would be in it!!

I had a fantastic time, 5 weeks of fun, surrounded by so many great people, a buffet everyday, joking and laughing, there wasn’t a dull moment, (apart from having to get up early in the morning everyday, trust me I need my beauty sleep!) it was just all over too quickly!!

I can tell this is going to be a great movie, so go watch it and have fun!!

X x Milena

Rosie Dwyer

Hi Guys, I’m Rosie and I play an artistic /creative character in the film, (and yeah that is my natural hair, big, blonde and curly!!!).

Like many people have said making Hating Alison Ashley was a fantastic experience, especially being part of the great 9C class. I read the book a few years ago, and loved it, so it was pretty incredible to be a part of bringing the story to life!!

We worked on the film for about five full weeks and so as you can imagine we got to know everyone, cast and crew really well and made some wonderful friends!!! I loved seeing how the scenes developed and enjoyed every day on set. When we were not acting we spent a lot of our time chatting or listening to music and relaxing or laughing, being with such a diverse and amusing group of people meant there were some pretty funny moments.

I feel so lucky to have been a part of Hating Alison Ashley, everyone involved in the production was friendly and helpful, and I learnt so much through making the film and working with such a talented cast and crew.

I really hope you all enjoy watching the film,

Rosie

Damien Brodie

Watch this space more coming soon

Watch this space more coming soon...

Raph Brousek

Watch this space more coming soon

Watch this space more coming soon...

Justin Fenech

“Hating Alison Ashley” Was an Experience of a lifetime…..

... it really gave me a chance to meet and perform with other actors that share the same passion as I do.

A lot of Strong Friendships have been formed from this experience.

And like so many other great experiences, it all seemed to end too quickly!

I remember (as we would say) “Chilling on Set” With the other 9C Cast, and Jamming with Craig in his Trailer. And who could forget that time Delta Goodrem played for us on her mini piano in her Trailer.

Unlike the other young actors who brought the “Wonderful” 9C To life, I found my love for acting a little later, only just a few years ago now, and I have never looked back. Though not being on TV my Acting Began in theatre and only was shown my true talent With Bryan Derrick on the Theatre of Transformation.

But whilst not acting I have made up for it with my passion for singing. I have enjoyed singing since as far back as I can remember. Performing “The Lion King” for my Grade 3 Class I was always looking for an excuse to get up there and sing.

Since My Stardom from my Primary School days I have been performing at local events and Open Mic Nights such as Star Quest, and being lucky enough to be the only male left in the Grand Final of “Melton Idol” Which you could probably guess was a spin off of Australian Idol, which auditions I am going to attend this year. “Melton Idol” Gave me the chance to Record an original Song with Steven Butcher. This Also gave me the opportunity to meet Marisa Warrington who plays Cindy on Neighbours.

As well as singing I enjoy writing Songs as well. Although I fear I have a long way to go to be able to put so much complexity into my writing as some of the Artists Today.
I enjoy listening to all sorts of music and pretty much can appreciate anything a good artist has put together.

I have never met any “Stars” Before this experience and was lucky enough to get along with all of them, and watch them make “Hating Alison Ashley” come to life. But where would they be without the Director Geoff Bennet and Producer John Brousek. At first I was a little intimidated by these guy’s, but soon realising how easy they were to get along with.

Overall this has been a wonderful journey and I’m sure the beginning of many.
I hope you Love the film as much as I loved being a part of it.

Best of Luck to you all,

Justin

Sabina Faubel

Watch this space more coming soon

Watch this space more coming soon...

Lucy Gould

 2002 ... 1st. draft script reading and...

I read the part of Chrystal! I was amazed to see how Christine Madafferi had brought Robin Klein’s fantastic book to life.

Right then I knew the movie was going to be a hit. So, for me, Hating Alison Ashley has been a three year project!

Back to the story... With boosted enthusiasm from all, the stage reading closely followed and received tremendous audience response. It was 2 years later when I heard the script was in its final pre-production stages and was soon contacted by producer Elizabeth Howatt-Jackman for auditions and was offered a part... although not Chrystal! :-).

Next thing I knew, it was rehearsals, wardrobe fittings, make-up calls then shooting. It was an amazing experience!!

I had thought I knew what I was getting myself into having been acting for years and taking on roles in shows such as Blue Heelers, Russell Coights Celebrity Challenge, Holly’s Heroes, Wicked Science, and numerous commercials including Just Car Insurance, TAC, Coles, and Wendy’s ice-cream parlour. However, I soon found out that shooting a feature film is dramatically different!

To cut a long story short, all in all it was 5 full on weeks with some really colourful people, fantastic actors and a great crew in which I learnt many new things and had the time of my life (so far!!).

I was lucky enough to be a part of the production from the beginning to the end...  and soon the premiere!!! I look forward to similar experiences in my many more acting years to come!

Enjoy!
Lucy

Ashleigh McInnes

The best thing about shooting Hating Alison Ashley was...   THE FOOD!!

We were treated like royalty…French toast & every style of eggs known to man for breakfast, 3 course lunches (and dessert!) for lunch, and afternoon snacks every day. In fact some of my fondest memories were made in the lunch tent.

‘Hating Alison Ashley’ was such an amazing experience for me. Although I had been involved in television as a child and teenager, being involved in shows such as “Gwenevere Jones”, “The Last of the Ryan’s”, a Palm Springs winning short film “The Calling”, and many commercials (I was the original ‘Fruity Bix’ girl!), it was my first real insight into the movie world.

I have met people who have become some of my closest friends, and although I won’t miss the 4.45am wake-ups and the endless hours amusing ourselves on set, I wouldn’t change anything.

And yes, that after every day I still managed to find room for dinner!

Hope you guys enjoy the film

Ashleigh xx

Amber Brousek

My pet peanuts name is Bill,
He lives in a vegemite lid on my window sill,
My brother Luke ate Bill,
Now there is an empty space on my window sill..

The phrase “Hating Alison Ashley” brings one word to my mind, "family"!

It truly was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Some one once said “friends are the family we choose for ourselves” and after working on HAA I totally agree with them

I believe myself to be a ‘unique’ person, I had a pet peanut called bill (for details read the above poem), I have an imaginary friend that I created whilst I was pretending to be Mr Squiggle (his name is Turi and he sings a really cool song) and I love chocolate, sunshine, shiny objects, herb bread, music, dancing, acting, counting to yellow, candy, pickles, rainbows and anything else that’s happy and fun.

I think that one of the most important things a person can have in life is a dream anything is possible if you truly believe you can achieve it (maybe not climbing up your own nose but everything else). Friends are also very important because they give you great support and inspiration so I’d quickly like to thank these people who have inspired and supported me: Ashley, Bethany, Simon, Kaitlin, Cathleen, Brandon, Luke D, Jay, Christie, Andrew, Luke T, Barty, Chanty, Mr Thornton, uncle John, Mum and Fred.

Acting is my passion and I’d love to pursue it as a career. There’s no other feeling in the world that can compare to the one I get from acting. I believe that performing is something I was born to do and it will always be a part of me no matter what happens. I hope all of you reading this enjoy HAA as much as I and the rest of the people involved enjoyed making. Remember that it’s nice to be important but it’s more important to be nice. I’ll leave you now with Turi’s song.

Turi turi turi turi, mishpay mishpay, a glooba glooben, tigi tigi wanana, wee boo ba bow, lee, fornala che cho choom, bala.

Sarah Ov

Watch this space more coming soon

Watch this space more coming soon...

Jason Olive

Hi To All... HAA was one of the greatest experiences of my life!

.Ever since high school I have had the privilege of being on stage, performing many different genres of music and playing several different instruments but acting and being part of a feature film was only a dream to faraway to be reached.

Then one day it happened... HAA!!

From the audition to the final day of shooting it all felt so right. Everyone involved in the movie, cast and crew were unbelievably kind and loving. These people are the ones that made HAA such a good experience for me.

When I wasn't on set there was always something to do or someone to talk to. From jamming guitars with Craig McLachlan, playing up with the cast of 9c or getting to be "me" around Delta Goodrem and being embraced with the beautiful nature and manner that followed her in everything and everywhere she went. Another pass the time activity was to discuss the aspects of different religions with the gorgeous Saskia.

For me, one of the most important parts of filming was the food. Everyday without fail there was a mean feast calling my name. Because of my islander background I have an extremely large apatite and the catering staff did more than enough to see my apatite satisfied... so thank you to the chef's!!

Shooting the film wasn't even close to working, I wouldn't even class it as a job. It was a part of my life I would gladly do over and over again and I can only hope I get to do this all again one day. HAA changed my life and has inspired me to pursue my life long goal of writing, producing and releasing my own songs. Delta and Craig also helped motivate me.

So thankyou to all involved in the film for everything you've done for me and thankyou especially for your friendship. I can't wait to see the movie come to life and I hope you all enjoy what is sure to be the greatest film of the year.

Representing Parky

Jason / Ace

James Sorensen

Gday all! Hating Alison Ashley was an amazing experience for me…!

It all started at the audition. I was in the same room as the real “Barry”, namely Alex who by the way looked really intimidating...

none-the-less I gave it my best go, and stuffed it! I left the building feeling like something the cat dragged in and thought that acting just wasn’t meant for me.

Then a few weeks later I got a phone call saying I was part of 9c and I was floating.... It was amazing! I can’t describe the feeling but hey I got it!!

What made it more amazing wasthe people that brought the film to life. Without the people all you have is a few cameras, a set… but no one to film it and no one to act in it. The people are what made it most memorable to me. Of course meeting Delta, Craig the man, and Jean, was exciting.

Mind you their "famousness" (if that’s a real word!) disappeared after a few days and instead of looking forward to seeing THEM atlunchtime, I looked forward to the FOOD…. you know what I mean Ashley! ... it was awesome!! WE ATE LIKE KINGS (and Queens). I think Ash ate as much if not more than me half the time. Despite the arguments of the best recipe for the Juicer we all loved the food!

There’s so much to remember and tell (just ask... that’s what the forums are for!!) I have made some great friends. I still keep in contact with a few of them, you know who you are, but I wanna keep in contact with all of you!!!

I especially wanna say thanks to our Bus-driver, without you mate those trips from Moorabin station
to set would of been the death of all of us, the people on my bus those who followed in a red Holden Astra and everyone else that made this happen.

I’m not one for inspiration, but, if you don’t believe in yourself… how can you believe in your dream? And without belief you can’t succeed. So, believe in yourself and nothing is impossible!

Peace, and love

James

Jessica Zeltner

ahoi hoi champs =0)  Hey I'm Jess....

My charactor is a NERD who thinks shes really cool!!! I dress really daggy and had to wear glasses that I kept leaving everywhere!! I remember Flick (wardrobe guru) always had to ask me "have you got your glasses??" before goin onto set!! In the end I grew to love those glasses...

I have been involved in Rock Eistedfod for the past 3 years and my school won for the past 3 years =0) I was also involved in the Rugby World Cup opening; I danced there!!! I only got into the acting industry when I was in year 8, about 2 years ago. I did Theatrix for a year and had a lead role in the play and last year I decided to go to NIDA (National Institute of Dramatic Arts)

Early last year I heard that Hating Alison Ashley was up for casting in Melbourne. I flew down to the auditions and made it through the first round and flew home to Sydney. Real soon I got a call asking me to come back down for the cast meet and greet!! which meant i was chosen!! I was STOKED, my heart was pounding, I was so happy, I called all my friends and told them!! They were all so proud of me and one of my friends started crying she was soooo happy =o) Mum and Dad were really proud and even moved down to Melbourne with me for 6 weeks of filming!!

On set was AMAZING, AWESOME and INSPIRING!!! Soooo many TALENTED people that were all so kind and caring and looked after me as i was the youngest one there!! THANK YOU!!
As everyone has mentioned the FOOD was terrific 2 thumbs up =o) YEWWW..
FABIO i still love bacon ;0) (personal joke)
Delta was amazing....so beautiful, kind and FUN!!! I remember one day while we were waiting on set, we all went up to Justins car and pumped up the music and started dancing to DELTA GOODREM's album!! Daggy dancing at that...

I really love surfing and acting ;0) listening to music and chilling with my mates:)
especially my BEST FRIEND in the whole wide world Rosealee....biggest CHAMP I know =D

I wish you all the best of luck and you can achieve anything you put your mind to and live life to the fullest ;0)

LOVE always JE$$ x0x0x0x0x

p.s I hope you all ejoy the film :0)

mwaz mwaz mwaz

Lavinia Brousek

Watch this space more coming soon

Watch this space more coming soon...