Alphabet Lane + Q&A at the National Film and Sound Archive

Overview

Join the NFSA in Acton for a post-screening Q& A with director James Litchfield, producer Lucinda Reynolds and actor Henry Nixon. The discussion will be moderated by screenwriter and ABC Arts film critic Sarinah Masukor.

This darkly funny thriller follows Anna (Tilda Cobham-Hervey) and Jack (Nicholas Denton), a young couple who have recently moved to the country. With the reality of their new situation failing to live up to their expectations, as a joke they invent imaginary neighbours to cope with their growing loneliness. As letters begin to arrive from their new friends, what started out as a joke soon comes to take over their entire relationship.

The film explores the emotional terrain of relationships under pressure, where isolation amplifies both affection and frustration. Subtle performances from Tilda Cobham-Hervey and Nicholas Denton anchor the story, capturing the shifting dynamics between intimacy and distance. Alphabet Lane is quietly unhinged and oddly romantic

Directed by James Litchfield in his feature debut, the film uses the wide landscapes of rural Australia to reflect the characters' inner lives. Blending elements of romance, mystery and psychological drama, the film offers a thoughtful exploration of connection, loneliness and the stories people create to reshape their reality.