Paradise

In the comical and poignant film "Paradise," we are introduced to Joseph, a well-meaning but somewhat misguided father, portrayed by the talented Dave Hill. Struggling with financial constraints, Joseph yearns to create an escape for his family despite the lack of resources that would typically allow for a holiday getaway. He hatches a unique plan to transform their dreary basement into a makeshift tropical resort. With lounge chairs positioned for maximum comfort and hand-painted palm trees adorning the walls, Joseph's creativity knows no bounds as he attempts to provide his wife Linda, played by the charismatic Penny Downie, and their children with a vacation experience right in their own home.

As the story unfolds, the family's dynamics come to life within the cramped quarters of their basement paradise. At first, Joseph’s enthusiasm and effort manage to spark joy among his family members, who indulge in this quirky take on a vacation. The family engages in various activities designed to mimic a luxurious resort experience, from lounging in beach attire to sipping on homemade tropical drinks. Yet, beneath the playful facade, tensions and frustrations simmer as the reality of their situation start to set in. The limitations of their environment clash with each family member's personal desires, leading to a blend of humor and heartfelt moments that resonate with anyone who has faced financial struggles of their own.

The plot takes a suspenseful turn when an unexpected event shakes up their artificial paradise—the sound of a burglar rummaging around in their home above. In a moment of high stakes, the family is torn between curiosity and obedience. Joseph, determined to maintain the illusion of their vacation, insists they remain in the basement and ignore the disturbances above. This decision sparks a dialogue about fear, trust, and the often comedic lengths one might go to protect their loved ones from the realities of life. "Paradise" serves as a reminder of the lengths to which we go to create happiness for our families, even when faced with the most unconventional challenges.

Full Cast of Paradise

Dave Hill as Joseph

Dave Hill

Joseph
In the movie 'Paradise,' Dave Hill delivers a compelling performance as Joseph, a character whose nuanced portrayal adds depth to the film's exploration of faith and survival. Hill brings a quiet intensity to the role, capturing the internal struggle of a man grappling with his beliefs in the face of a post-apocalyptic world. His interactions with the other characters are laced with a subtle yet powerful charisma, allowing viewers to sense the weight of his leadership and the moral compass he strives to maintain. Hill's Joseph is both influential and vulnerable, showcasing a complex individual who is revered by some and doubted by others, reflecting the contentious nature of authority in desperate times. Through his performance, Hill conveys the emotional journey of a man torn between his duty to preserve a semblance of civilization and his personal quest for redemption, making his character a pivotal figure in the narrative's unfolding drama.
Penny Downie as Linda

Penny Downie

Linda
In the poignant film "Paradise," Penny Downie delivers a compelling performance as Linda, a character who embodies the complexities of maternal love and the painful sacrifices it often demands. Downie's portrayal is a delicate balance of strength and vulnerability; she brings to life a mother figure who is fiercely protective of her son, played by Bobby Schofield, yet haunted by the limitations of her own capabilities. Linda's journey is marked by a raw emotional depth, which Downie conveys with remarkable subtlety and nuance. Her interactions with the other characters, particularly with Olga, played by (insert actress's name), are laden with an undercurrent of tension and unspoken understanding, crafting a narrative that is as much about the unbreakable bonds of family as it is about the struggle for redemption. Downie's performance is a testament to her range as an actress, as she effortlessly navigates the script's tonal shifts from hope to despair, ultimately leaving an indelible impression on the audience and contributing significantly to the film's emotional resonance.

Gregory Chisholm

Chris

Rebecca Weeks

Sam

Crew of Paradise

Full backstage crew list →