OBSERVER: A Day For Losers
Principal photography has concluded on A Day for Losers starring Jacob Sartorius, Dakota Lotus and Benji Krol, largely filmed at Melbourne High School.
This bold coming-of-age comedy is the new feature film from internationally acclaimed Melbourne-based writer-director J.G. Clarke (Numbered Lives) and production companies Clarke Films and Cardinal Motion Pictures.
Produced by Clarke (Land of Bad, Numbered Lives) and David Lightfoot (Land of Bad, Numbered Lives ), the film was shot exclusively on location in Melbourne, with a multi-week schedule at Melbourne High School.
The story delivers a fresh, unapologetic take on high school life, blending sharp wit and authentic dialogue. The key cast bring with them more than 80 million followers on their social media accounts, set to highlight the city of Melbourne and the independent Australian film industry.
“Given the guys huge social media reach, there’s already been incredible reach across channels with millions of views already for the behind-the-scenes footage” said J.G. Clarke, Director.
“We really hope this will translate into audience numbers in the cinema with people getting behind this talented young cast.”
“It’s been such an incredible filming process, I’ve enjoyed my experience so much, I can’t wait for everyone to watch A Day For Losers, it’s going to be incredible,” says Dakota Lotus
Set within the rigid MacArthur Military Academy, the film follows a disillusioned cadet, Ryan (Lotus), who impulsively promises the girl of his dreams that he can throw the ultimate high school party.
Ryan’s only hope to pull his plan off is to team up with the school’s most unlikely outsiders. The film explores themes of empowerment, identity, and the joy of embracing one’s differences.
“We’ve been having the time of our lives making the film, and I just really hope everyone will watch it,” said Jacob Sartorius.
A Day for Losers is Clarke’s follow-up to his directorial debut, Numbered Lives, a psychological thriller starring Golden Globe winner Jeremy Piven.
The film garnered 34 international festival awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Screenplay. Clarke’s shift from thriller to comedy showcases his versatility while maintaining his focus on authentic, character-driven narratives.
The film will now enter post-production with a release date set for 2026. The three key cast will return for the premiere which will be held in Melbourne.
Cheryl Threadgold