Celebrating Our 20th Anniversary!
by Alex Billington
June 5, 2026
Source: YouTube
“I don’t need help… I’m a frickin’ boss!” Madman Films revealed the first official trailer for the Australian indie comedy called Boss Cat, a bright and exuberant coming-of-age film about a young woman with Down Syndrome. Starring Olivia Hargroder in the lead role as Sonja. This is premiering this month at the 2026 Sydney Film Festival this winter in Australia, then opens in cinemas there in December. After her mother dies, a woman with Trisomy 21 (aka Down Syndrome) must campaign against the plans of her estranged grandma to sell the family home and send her away. To gain the support she needs, she must first channel an explosive temper into something more positive… Krump dance. SFF’s intro: “A rousing World Premiere about family, friendship and the power of krumping. A heartwarming Sydney production made with an inclusive cast and crew from Bus Stop Films.” This stars Hargroder with Penny Downie, Julia Savage, Chris Bunton, and Elijah Williams. This is a wonderful first trailer, introducing Sonja along with a look at all the vivid and exciting dance scenes. This seems like it might be a major hit! Definitely worth a watch.
Here’s the first official trailer for Genevieve Clay-Smith’s comedy film Boss Cat, direct from YouTube:
23-year-old Sonja (Olivia Hargroder) lives with Trisomy 21 (aka Down Syndrome) and must fight for her independence following the tragic loss of her mother. Her distant grandmother, Doris (Penny Downie), becomes the guardian to Sonja and her younger sister, Emma (Julia Savage). But when Doris tries to sell the family home and uproot their lives, Sonja defends her right to her home, lifestyle, friends, & boyfriend Michael (Chris Bunton). Inspired by her new friend Hakim (Elijah Williams), Sonja stands up to Doris by expressing herself through krumping, an energetic dance style that releases frustration. A stirring debut about individuality and independence. Boss Cat is both written and directed by up-and-coming Australian filmmaker Genevieve Clay-Smith, making her feature directorial debut after tons of short films and eps of “Fizzy and Suds” previously. Produced by Deanne Weir, Michele Turnure-Salleo, Dianna La Grassa, and Eleanor Winkler. This is premiering at the 2026 Sydney Film Festival this winter. Madman Films releases Boss Cat in Aussie cinemas on December 3rd, 2026 later in the year. No US release is set yet – stay tuned.
