Local talent and landscapes feature in a short film shot at Gunnamatta Beach last November.
A passion project awarded a performance arts grant by Mornington Peninsula Shire, Salty is described as “a powerful exploration of youth mental health, identity, and resilience.” Currently entering the festival circuit before public release, the film’s compelling themes and impressive performances are sure to capture attention.
Originating from an idea writer Melissa Zhen Zhu Riemer brought to her longtime friend and producer Danielle Singleton in 2021, the film evolved from early plans for a TV series titled Boys of Summer. Inspired by projects such as Whiplash and Skin — short films that later became feature-length — the pair adopted the same model, beginning production on Salty as a standalone short film last year.
The story follows Lachlan, a young Aussie-Japanese surfing prodigy whose carefree afternoon at the beach spirals when past trauma resurfaces, forcing him to confront the ocean as both his greatest solace and deepest struggle.
Before filming began, teenage students joined industry professionals for hands-on workshops covering all aspects of filmmaking. These sessions not only provided invaluable learning opportunities but also helped cast and crew build rapport before shooting began. The connection showed on set, as they worked together through all conditions — from scorching sunshine to freezing coastal winds.
Hyu Motoki, outstanding in the lead role, is supported by three talented local actors:
- Mayla Dillon as Kylie, Lachlan’s love interest,
- El Singleton as Kylie’s best friend, Lisa, and
- Keenan Lord as Mikey, Lachlan’s friend.
All three come from Rosebud’s Dreamhouse Theatre.
For Mayla, Salty marked her first screen role.
“Intrigued by the opportunity to perhaps begin acting on screen, before I knew it I was mustering up my best attempt at my first ever self-tape,” she said.
From her perspective, Salty “represents adolescence in a way that will make a lot of my peers feel seen and heard in struggles of their own.”
While Melissa drew inspiration for the script’s authentic teen dialogue from her younger family members, director Jake Robb also encouraged improvisation and ad-libbing on set.
“Each scene had several takes — one following the script exactly, and others allowing the actors to ad-lib freely,” Melissa said. “It was incredible watching them bring authenticity to every moment while staying true to the story.”
Exploring the turbulence of PTSD after Lachlan suffers a head injury, the film portrays the world through his distorted perspective.
“The source of Lachlan’s inner turmoil is hinted at early on but deliberately not fully explained,” Melissa said. “The film rewards a second viewing, where you notice the subtle signs and emotional cues you may have missed the first time — just like how real mental health struggles often go unnoticed until after the fact.”
While Salty continues its festival run, public screenings are not yet permitted. However, the trailer can be viewed at saltyfilm.com.au and on social media.
