Quest and Sony Foundation say ‘You Can Stay’ in new feel-good film via Wildebeest

Wildebeest uncovers the stories of regional youth cancer patients, who are shown heart-warming kindness, in a new feel-good film for Quest Apartment Hotels and Sony Foundation Australia.

 

Around one in three young people with cancer live in regional or rural areas. Often diagnosed with rare and complex cancers requiring specialist treatment in major hospitals, young patients from the country ultimately pay more for their treatment due to significant and ongoing travel and accommodation expenses. But now, those eligible can access free accommodation from ‘You Can Stay’.

Quest Apartment Hotels has partnered with Sony Foundation Australia’s ‘You Can Stay’ program providing free accommodation in cities around Australia for regional and rural youth aged 15-25 who are diagnosed with cancer. Since launching in July 2020, the program has supported nearly 70 families with over 3,900 nights of accommodation with the average stay over 50 nights.

Tasked with conveying the impact of this program, while also doing justice to the sensitive subject matter, was Melbourne-based production company, Wildebeest.

The film brings to life the stories of 18-year-old Launceston local, Miles, and 21-year-old Mollie from Torquay – two young Aussies who know first-hand how valuable the charitable service is. Such a delicate story and subject deserved the sensitivity of director, Thomas Hyland, whose aptitude for authenticity served to meaningfully deliver their stories.

Says Jarred Osborn, creative director at Wildebeest: “It was an easy decision to help Quest and Sony Foundation bring awareness to this initiative. Having worked with Quest before, we knew there would be open collaboration with how these stories were told.

“We brought Thomas on board because we know the sensitivity he brings to this sort of work. His ability to bring true vulnerability to life is what makes this content so impactful.”

Says Hyland: “After a year or so of very little social interaction, it was very special to come and work on this project. It was special because of the people involved. Also honest, warm and fun. Everyone from the sound and camera team, to the clients and production company, and most of all Miles and Mollie – who so generously let us into their lives.”

Combining nostalgic and historic smartphone footage with in-situ current day clips and narrative talking heads segments, the film juxtaposes carefree days gone by with the confronting reality of the present. A fitting testament to the strength and optimism of Miles and Mollie, and a nod to the humanity and kindness from Quest and Sony Foundation.

To find out more or about the Sony Foundation’s ‘You Can Stay’ program please visit: https://www.sonyfoundation.org/youcanstay

Client: Quest and Sony Foundation
Production Company: Wildebeest
Creative Director: Jarred Osborn
Director: Thomas Hyland
DoP: Michael Lincoln
Executive Producer: Josie Baynes
Producer: Kati Hogarth
Editor: James Lee
Colourist: Nick Hower