The Son and the Sea

Australian Premiere

“Wholesome, compassionate storytelling.” – FirstShowing

Tired of his self-destructive, hard-partying life in London, Jonah decides it’s time for a break. He convinces his best mate, Lee, to come with him on a trip to the north-east coast of Scotland to visit Jonah’s great-aunt. There, they strike up a friendship with Charlie at the pub. Charlie is a Deaf man, grappling with the fallout of his twin brother’s misdeeds. The three young men form a tentative connection as they explore the ruggedly majestic Scottish coastline together, steadily learning to communicate in new ways and supporting each other to face their mental demons.

A confident debut feature from Stroma Cairns, The Son and the Sea is very much a family affair – Cairns co-wrote the film with her mother, Imogen West, who is also a producer, and Cairns’ brother Jonah West is the lead actor. Nuanced and sensitive in its depiction of young masculinity, this is a hopeful coming-of-age story filled with quiet moments of wonder set against a spectacular landscape.

Festivals & Awards

Toronto International Film Festival 2025 – Official Selection
San Sebastián Film Festival 2025 – Official Selection
BFI London Film Festival 2025 – Official Selection